SS South Western and Company/Merchant navy uniforms

[wightspirit]

Hello everyone

I've been engaged in filming the WW1 wreck of the SS South Western, owned by the London & South Western Railway Company, for a forthcoming production concerning the centenary of WW1. The ship was torpedoed and sunk off the Isle of Wight in March 1918. The TV company have asked whether the crew would have been wearing a company uniform or the usual civilian clothes commonly worn on many tramp steamers. I imagine the stokers and firemen working in the engine room would have been wearing heavy duty trousers, probably stripped to the waist due to the exertions of work and heat, so probably not uniformed. Additionally, what was worn at night, given that the ship was steaming through a known dangerous area. Did they sleep fully or partially clothed or in nightwear? I don't know the answers - can anyone help please?

Dave W

[sotonmate]

The old regional Railway companies seem to have liveried their employees and I can't imagine that their sailors would have been ignored. I have seen pics of ferry sailors with blue serge trousers and Guernseys with the company name or initials marked on them,and naval caps,certainly pre- and post-WW2.If it was me doing the continuity it would be long johns at night (unless you were on duty,sailor !),and dependant on the safety level of the zone you were in.

In the case of 1917 and 1918, as there was so much sub activity and sinkings around our coast then my men would be dressed whilst asleep !

[ARABIS]

From Railway Buttons Badges & Uniforms by David J. Froggatt.

London & South Western Railway.

"Regarding the company's marine staff, captains and mates had to provide their own uniforms and pea jackets, but were issued with gilt anchor buttons containing the company's initials, together with a cap badge depicting the company's houseflag. Captains were also issued with two thin gold bands for affixing around their caps. Seamen on the boats wore blue guernseys, blue trousers and blue caps".

[wightspirit]

Arabis & Sotonmate - thank you for your replies - very helpful. Dave W