History of HMS Blenheim a Blake Class Cruiser
built by Thames ironworks, and launched on 26th May 1894. Antique chromolithograph from Her Majesty's
Navy published by J S Virtue & Co. After service
HMS Blenheim was used as a depot ship from May 1908 and finally sold to
the breakers in 1926.
Length 375 feet, beam 65 feet. Armament Two 9.2 inch Guns and Ten
6 - inch Guns and eighteen 3 pounder.
Designed Speed 22 knots, Horsepower 20,000.
In 1888 the most important part of the naval programme of the period
were laid down. The Blake Class Armoured Cruisers HMS Blake and HMS
Blenheim, A Class with the armament of The Orlando Class with greatly
improved speed secured by development in the deck armour. Could be
said to be similar to an enlarged Mersey Class Cruiser. But these ships
were unique due to their increased length and great increase in displacement.
The main Guns were in armoured casemate's, a leading characteristic of
nearly all Sir William White's ships made its first appearance. HMS
Blenheim for four main guns, the upper deck guns being behind the usual
shields. (text from British battle fleets, FT Jane)
