1-343-984 - Art Media/Heritage Images

Ocean liner RMS 'Mauretania', 20th century. The Mauretania was built for the Cunard Line by Swan, Hunter & Wigham Richardson at Wallsend on the Tyne. Launched in 1906, the Mauretania operated on the transatlantic route to New York, holding the Blue Riband for the fastest crossing from 1909 until 1929. She served as a troopship during World War I, her speed enabling her to avoid falling prey to German u-boats. Mauretania was retired in 1934 after Cunard merged with the White Star Line and the 81,000 ton 'Queen Mary' entered service. She was scrapped the following year.