Hello group,

It's me the Great Eastern buff :-)

Today I received a copy of the book "John Scott Russell" by George S. Emmerson, published in 1977. I saw quite a few copies for sale second hand. I got my copy from Frank Smith, UK. Not a cheap deal but all used books I ever ordered from this book store arrived in great shape (I'm not related to anyone working there, LOL).

The book has a full three chapters dedicated to the Great Eastern and some new construction photos as well as the model of the paddle engine and paddle wheels. Looks like this book will reveal some great new info on the GE. Tonight I'll start reading till I fall asleep.

Since reading Emmerson's book: "The Greatest iron ship," I am convinced that John Scott Russell was not the foe in the GE story. He certainly was a brilliant naval architect and IK Brunel has chosen him wisely as his partner. The problems most likely were of financial and political nature, besides the obvious occasional clash of egos between IKB and JSR.

Our Great Eastern site is almost ready to go online. I'm sure you GE fans will like it -- we are doing our very best.

PJ: if you like I'll be happy to send you a scan of the paddle engine model via personal email (I have Norton Anti Virus 2002 checking all in- and outgoing emails). You might want to upload it onto the Paddleducks files. PLMK :-)

All the best

Christian