Hawthorn Leslie built ships on the Hebburn riverside from 1886 to 1982- at its height constructing 2 light cruisers, 3 destroyer leaders and 25 torpedo boat destroyers for the First World War.
The Hebburn yard has lain derelict since 2001 and the Hawthorn Leslie building that still stands has been the target of numerous arson attacks in recent years.
Last year it was announced hundreds of new homes will be built on the site as well as a retail convenience store, community meeting space and multi-storey car park.
Thanks to Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums for the photos- all are available for purchase.
Last year it was announced hundreds of new homes will be built on the site as well as a retail convenience store, community meeting space and multi-storey car park.
5. Launch party of HMS Verdun
Launch party of the torpedo boat destroyer HMS Verdun, launched at the Hebburn shipyard of Hawthorn Leslie, 21 August 1917 (TWAM ref. 4923/2). After the First World War HMS Verdun was given the honour of bringing the body of the Unknown Warrior back to Britain. That event is remembered in a recent blog by Tyne & Wear Archives www.twmuseums.org.uk/engage/blog/first-world-war-stories-....
6. HMS Waveney at sea
Starboard side view of HMS Waveney at sea, 1904 (TWAM ref. 2931 War13). HMS Waveney was a River Class destroyer launched by Hawthorn Leslie on 16 March 1903. During the First World War Waveney took part in anti-submarine patrols.
7. Launch party of HMS Starfish
Launch party of HMS Starfish, launched at the Hebburn shipyard of Hawthorn Leslie, 27 September 1916 (TWAM ref. 4923/2). HMS Starfish was an R-class destroyer.
8. Port side view of HMS Derwent
HMS Derwent at sea, 1904 (TWAM ref. 2931 War11). HMS Derwent was a River Class destroyer launched by Hawthorn Leslie on 14 February 1903. Derwent was lost on 2 May 1917 when she struck a German mine.