MV Bretagne, sunk 1917 Torbay

[Ranchhand1947]

This vessel was armed with 12ib or 4inch gun on the poop deck.

in the late 70s we lifted some of the shells, the cordite still burned! Anyway I have too shell cases, one brass delayed timer, with cap and two primers.

Back in the day , the Governor of Dartmoor prison, identified that shells had been used in Boar war and then on the western front. 

 

Can I post pictures, showing the collection and id#s and then obtain guidance as where to go to confirm  manufacturer , etc.

 

Many Thanks

 

David. 

[KizmeRD]

Just for sake of good order, and without being too boring, may I correct a couple of errors in the original posting. The Bretagne was in fact a steam ship, not a motor vessel. She sank after a collision 10.08.1918 (not 1917), and a 12 pounder was in fact a 3" gun (not 4"). A look on the bottom of the brass casing will reveal manufacturer's markings and year.

Michael

[Ranchhand1947]

Thanks. The owners of the wreck salvage the gun decades ago and they stated that it was a 12 pounder.   The shell was produce by RL, underneath that is the numeral 1, once I have cleaned it up, I will post photos. I also have the fuses and one brass timer/detonator.

 

Thanks

David

 

Edited 28 November , 2019 by Ranchhand1947
adding

[Ranchhand1947]

https://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?1291   And here are more details. Where it does state that it was 12 pounder. Where did you discover that it was 3 inch. T

[KizmeRD]

RL indicates Royal Laboratory (Woolwich Arsenal).

Michael

Edited 28 November , 2019 by KizmeRD

[KizmeRD]

12 pounder refers to the approximate weight of the projectile, whereas 3" is the calibre of the gun. (Naval QF 4" guns fired a far heavier projectile).

Michael