Launch of H.M.S. Albion

The launch of H.M.S Albion, which was marred by the collapse of a gangway which resulted in many spectators drowning.

This early film captures the launch of the H.M.S. Albion, which was marred by the collapse of a gangway which resulted in many spectators drowning. Film pioneer Robert Paul was filming the launch at water level – and he continued filming after the collapse of a gangway, while his launch picked up many survivors. His decision to continue filming, and then to exhibit the film, aroused much controversy.

See also the Prestwich film of the launch, Launch of H.M.S. Albion at Blackwall, which is taken from the opposite side of the river and shows the ship going down the slipway and turning. It also does not show the gangway collapse.