Home > Historic > World War I and II > Naval warfare
Filling an electro-contact mine with gun-cotton in the Navy. Date: August 1914
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Filling an electro-contact mine with gun-cotton in the Navy. Date: August 1914
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23033620
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Naval warfare
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
> Services
> Royal Navy
EDITORS COMMENTS
August 1914: Preparing for War at Sea - Filling an Electro-Contact Mine with Gun-Cotton in the Navy As the first shots of the Great War echoed across Europe in August 1914, the naval forces of both the Allied and Central Powers raced to fortify their fleets and secure control of the seas. In this evocative image, sailors of the Royal Navy work diligently to fill an electro-contact mine with gun-cotton, a highly sensitive explosive, aboard a British warship. Electro-contact mines, also known as "tethered mines," were a type of underwater explosive device used extensively during World War I. These mines were designed to detonate when they came into contact with an enemy vessel's electrical field, making them particularly effective against large, metal-hulled ships. The mines were filled with a volatile mixture of nitroglycerin and gun-cotton, which was highly unstable and required careful handling. The sailors in this photograph are seen working in close proximity to the mine, which is suspended from a crane and secured to the deck of the ship. They wear protective clothing and goggles, but the danger is palpable. The mine's battery, visible in the foreground, is also a potential hazard, as it could easily ignite the explosive if mishandled. This image offers a rare glimpse into the dangerous and demanding work of the Royal Navy during the early days of World War I. As the conflict spread across Europe and the world, naval forces played a crucial role in securing vital shipping lanes, protecting coastal communities, and engaging the enemy in battle on the high seas.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
