Blake Class
Armoured Cruisers
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)
Royal Navy cruiser HMS Blake was built
at Chatham Dockyard and launched in 1889. HMS Blake served one commission
as flagship at the America and West Indies Station during 1895 and in
December of 1895 was commissioned into the Channel Squadron commanded by
Captain Bromley. Converted to a destroyer depot ship in August
1907 after being struck of the navy list in 1906. Served as the depot ship
for the 2nd destroyer flotilla of the Grand Fleet and then to the 11th
Destroyer flotilla. after the war was scrapped on the 9th June 1922.
History of HMS Blenheim a Blake Class Cruiser
built by Thames ironworks, and launched on 26th May 1894. After service
HMS Blenheim was used as a destroyer depot ship from May 1908 serving with
the flotillas in the Mediterranean. during the war was sent to Mudros in
March 1915 to take part in the Dardanelle's campaign. and finally sold to
the breakers in 1926.
Displacement: 9150 tons, speed: 22 knots, Crew 570. 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.
