Who Made the First Submarine?

The story of the first submarine commissioned by the Royal Navy is a fascinating one, filled with twists and turns. The Holland-class submarine, specifically HMS Holland 1, has a rich history that spans over a century.

Built in 1901 at Barrow-in-Furness, John Philip Holland was the mastermind behind this groundbreaking vessel. The construction of the submarine was kept secret by labeling it as 'Yacht Shed' and marking parts for 'pontoon no 1'. This clever move allowed the Royal Navy to keep its intentions under wraps.

On October 2, 1901, HMS Holland 1 was launched, and just a few months later, on March 20, 1902, it took its first dive in an enclosed basin. Sea trials began in April of that year, marking a significant milestone in the submarine's development.

In September 1902, HMS Holland 1 arrived at Portsmouth along with other completed Holland boats, forming the 'First Submarine Flotilla' under Captain Reginald Bacon's command. On October 24, 1904, the submarine set sail from Portsmouth to attack a Russian fleet that had mistakenly sunk British fishing vessels in the North Sea.

The submarine played a crucial role in several naval operations during its early years, including the Dogger Bank incident. However, it wasn't without its challenges. On March 3, 1903, HMS Holland 1 suffered an explosion that caused four injuries. Despite this setback, the submarine continued to serve the Royal Navy until it was decommissioned and sold in 1913.

In a surprising twist, the submarine was sold with all its fittings intact, with only one condition: the torpedo tube had to be put out of action. HMS Holland 1 sank about a mile and a half off Eddystone Lighthouse while being towed to the scrapyard due to severe weather.

Today, parts of the original submarine are on display at the Royal Navy Submarine Museum in Gosport, where visitors can learn more about this pioneering vessel's history. As we reflect on the significance of HMS Holland 1, it's clear that its legacy extends far beyond its own era. This remarkable submarine has left an indelible mark on naval history, and its story continues to captivate us to this day.

Who made first submarine