- +27 82 328 2755
- [email protected]
- The Old Mushroom Farm, 11 Karkloof Rd, Howick, RSA
R0.00
R175.00
Philip MacDougall was a highly regarded historian of naval infrastructure, and Royal Dockyards reflects his extensive knowledge of the subject. His balanced approach makes the book equally appealing to academic readers, local historians and enthusiasts of maritime heritage. The work remains an important reference for understanding how Britain’s naval dockyards contributed to centuries of exploration, trade, defence and imperial expansion.
1 in stock
Royal Dockyards is an authoritative and richly illustrated history of the great naval dockyards that formed the backbone of Britain’s maritime power for centuries. Written by respected maritime historian Philip MacDougall and published by David & Charles in 1982, this engaging volume examines the development, organisation and importance of the Royal Dockyards that built, maintained and supplied the ships of the Royal Navy. Combining meticulous research with accessible writing, the book is an essential resource for anyone interested in naval history, industrial archaeology or Britain’s seafaring heritage.
From the Tudor period through the height of the British Empire, the Royal Dockyards played a vital role in ensuring that the Royal Navy remained one of the world’s most powerful maritime forces. Royal Dockyards explores the history of major establishments such as Portsmouth, Chatham, Plymouth (Devonport), Sheerness, Deptford and Woolwich, explaining how these vast complexes evolved to meet the changing demands of naval warfare. MacDougall highlights not only the construction of famous warships but also the skilled workforce, engineers, shipwrights and administrators whose expertise kept the fleet operational.
One of the greatest strengths of Royal Dockyards is its ability to place these historic sites within their wider political, economic and technological context. The book traces developments in shipbuilding techniques, dockyard management and naval logistics, illustrating how advances in engineering and industrial production transformed Britain’s ability to project power across the globe. Numerous photographs, plans and historical illustrations enhance the text, providing valuable insight into the architecture, layout and daily operation of these remarkable facilities.
Philip MacDougall was a highly regarded historian of naval infrastructure, and Royal Dockyards reflects his extensive knowledge of the subject. His balanced approach makes the book equally appealing to academic readers, local historians and enthusiasts of maritime heritage. The work remains an important reference for understanding how Britain’s naval dockyards contributed to centuries of exploration, trade, defence and imperial expansion.
Published by David & Charles, a publisher well known for producing high-quality historical and transport titles, this 1982 edition is a valuable addition to any maritime library. Whether you are researching the history of the Royal Navy, collecting books on British industrial heritage or simply fascinated by historic shipbuilding, Royal Dockyards offers an informative and rewarding read. Its combination of historical scholarship, excellent illustrations and enduring relevance ensures it remains a sought-after volume for collectors and students of maritime history.
Condition: Near fine – Minimal wear present.
