Pioneer | National Historic Ships

Registration number 1884

Status Registered

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Details

Function Cargo Vessel

Subfunction Barge

Location Stainforth & Keadby Canal

Vessel type Humber Keel

Current use Private use

Available to hire No

Available for excursions No

Info required Yes

Construction

Builder Watson, J S (Gainsborough) Ltd, Gainsborough

Built in 1910

Hull material Iron

Rig None

Number of decks 1

Number of masts 2

Propulsion Motor

Number of engines 1

Primary engine type Diesel

Boiler type None

Boilermaker None

Dimensions

Breadth: Beam

14.80 feet (4.51m)

Depth

3.80 feet (1.16m)

Length: Overall

57.60 feet (17.57m)

Tonnage: Gross

50.00

History

PIONEER was built at Watsons' shipyard on the River Trent, opposite Gainsborough, in 1910. She was commissioned by George Bisby and built to Deane & Dove Canal dimensions. Her hull was constructed of steel. George Bisby had a contract to carry coal from Manvers coal staithe to Gainsborough for the Gainsborough Co-operative Society. After discharging the cargo at Gainsborough, the barges would either sail to Hull and pick up a load for Sheffield, or go up the Trent to take on sand or gravel for such places as Barron's Glasswork at Mexborough. At this time, PIONEER was crewed by Ainley Earnshaw Bisby and his wife and sons. PIONEER underwent restoration and several alterations were made to her. She is the only known barge left of six which were built for the Deane & Dove Canal.

Update, July 2023: Vessel for sale

We are currently lacking information on this particular vessel. If you have any information on this vessel past or present, please contact us.