History of Calshot Spit: From lightvessel to historic marvel

The Calshot Spit spent decades guiding ships in and out of Southampton Water.

In 1989, the distinctive red vessel was lifted from the water for the last time after decades of service guiding ships into and out of Southampton Water.

Built in 1914 by J I Thornycroft shipyard in Southampton, the vessel was designed to serve as a floating lighthouse at the entrance to Southampton Water.

Stationed at Calshot Spit, she guided ships and flying boats into Southampton Water and warned of sandbanks. It remained in service until 1978.

Calshot Spit lightship, 1989. (Image: Echo)

After decommissioning, the vessel was moved to Ocean Village Marina in Southampton in 1988, and in 2010 she was relocated to Trafalgar Dry Dock.

In December 2019, Calshot Spit was moved to the Solent Sky Museum in Southampton where there are hopes to turn her into a café.

She holds significant historical value as a symbol of Southampton's maritime heritage after serving as a vital navigational aid, guiding countless ships safely into the port.

The vessel's preservation ensures that this important piece of history can be enjoyed by future generations.

The vessel is currently listed on the National Historic Ships UK register.

In 1962, the Calshot Spit lightship was still on duty, and the Daily Echo sent a reporter and photographer to experience life aboard the vessel.

Crew off duty in 1962 (Image: Echo)

George Rowe, a crew member and master of the Trinity House-operated lightship for 37 years, had found his ideal job.

He and his small crew spent a month at a time at sea, always within sight of land and anchored steadily.

Officially known as LV78, the lightship was especially crucial during foggy conditions.

Reg Lawrence, a lamplighter, spent two out of every six weeks at home with his family. "There are times when you get fed up," he admitted. "But overall, it's a pretty good job. What job doesn't get under your skin sometimes?"

Lawrence, the oldest crew member at 53, had joined the Royal Navy at 15 and served throughout the Second World War. After retiring at 40, he joined Trinity House.

Another lamplighter, Jan Strutton, a former Royal Navy man, had also spent time on lightships. "It's not the kind of routine that suits everyone, but it's just how you're made," he said.

Calshot Spit arriving in Ocean Village in 1969. (Image: Echo)

The youngest crew member, Peter Bridle, a newlywed of 21, preferred the small, stationary vessel to the life of a liner, having previously served on the Cunarder, Queen Elizabeth.

The vigil between sunset and sunrise was the most critical aspect of a lightship's duties.

Although the crew's primary responsibilities were at night, there was plenty to do during the day, including deck scrubbing, cleaning, painting, and general maintenance.

Extra Seaman Jim Parker, who had served in the Royal Marines for 12 years, including Second World Wat, took on the role of chef every fourth day. Each crew member took turns in the galley, preparing fresh food from the oil-burning refrigerator.

As the Daily Echo reporter described, the launch that took him to the lightship pulled away from the red ship, still riding the sea with rhythm.

Watching the ship's flag flutter lazily in the breeze, he began to ponder loneliness and boredom.

His thoughts were interrupted by a shout from the lightship. It was the skipper, joking, "If we ever get a stowaway aboard, you'll be the first to know!" He waved goodbye, as did his four crew members, who then turned and went about their duties.