Admiral Bligh and the 18C Royal Navy
Ian whitehouse
- Regions:
- Cornwall, Devon
- Notice Period:
- Short (maybe less than one month's notice)
- Type:
- Hobby / Charity
- Fee:
- Paid: I usually request a donation (£50 - £75) to St Petrocs - a Charity for the Cornish homeless.
- Category:
- History
- Updated:
- 9th November 2026
Takes as its starting point the famous (or infamous) Admiral William Bligh of the Bounty. He i s commemorated in St Tudy Church, a small village with a surprising number of naval connections - four admirals, two commanders, a Trafalgar veteran, an early submarine pioneer and more. The talk covers the Anglo Saxon origins of the Royal Navy, Bligh’s wide ranging career, his amazing 4,000 mile open boat voyage that followed the infamous mutiny and then addresses life in the 18thC Royal Navy - busting some myths along the way. 45 min duration.
Views: 145 | Enquiries: 0About Ian whitehouse
I served in the Royal Navy for 22 years, 1970 - 1992, commanded two submarines - the conventional diesel electric boat HMS ONYX and a nuclear powered ‘Hunter-Killer’ submarine HMS SOVEREIGN. I have a long standing interest in all things historical and maritime related. My speaking fees are gifted to St Petroc's Charity for the Homeless in Cornwall.
TESTIMONIALS:
Camelford WI - Ian gave us a fascinating insight into submarine history and the workings of submarines. He gave us a real feeling for life underwater, speaking clearly and with enthusiasm of his chosen career. Recommended.
Torpoint U3A - Ian’s talk was a great success and met with universal approval. So much so that we have invited him back to talk on a different topic.
Telling us about the failures and successes in development of submarines over the centuries, putting the importance of submarines and the bravery of submariners in two world wars in stark terms and giving an insight into life on board a modern boat was fascinating.
The images used to illustrate the talk were excellent and Ian’s delivery was clear - no need for a microphone - and his gentle sense of authority combined with irony and humour captured our interest for almost an hour.
Question time was also a success when members were able to talk with Ian on specific points and were delighted with his friendly approach.
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