Whaley, Capt J G Wells

Whaley, the Story of HMS Excellent, 1830–1980
Captain John G Wells

Signed copy

This book is about a ship, a mud bank which became an island and the building of a naval tradition. In 1830 the old three-decker HMS Excellent was moored in Portsmouth harbour. She was destined to become the first Gunnery School and firing ship of the Royal Navy. The mud bank (Whaley) was developed into an island in the second half of the 19th century and became the location of the gunnery school. It is a story of the people, their influence on the use of the gun, their achievements and failures.

Hard back with dust jacket in cellophane wrapper.  Dust jacket torn at bottom of spine and small piece missing from bottom corner of back. Front endpaper inscribed ‘Tommy Catlow’ and ‘with best wishes for some happy memories, John Wells, April 1981’

247 pages
Black and white photos
155 mm x 218 mm (6 in x 8.75 in)
1980, HMS Excellent, Portsmouth