HMHS Aberdonian

Class overview
Name	HMHS Aberdonian
History
Name	HMHS Aberdonian
Owner	Royal Navy
Operator	Royal Navy
Builder	A. & J. Inglis
Launched	1909
In service	1915
Out of service	1919
Fate	Scrapped
General characteristics

HMHS Aberdonian was a hospital ship operated by the Royal Navy during World War I. The ship was originally built as a passenger and cargo vessel by A. & J. Inglis in 1909. It was later requisitioned by the Royal Navy and converted into a hospital ship in 1915.

Construction and Design

HMHS Aberdonian was constructed by the shipbuilding company A. & J. Inglis in 1909. The ship was initially designed to serve as a passenger and cargo vessel. It featured a robust design suitable for the harsh conditions of the North Sea.

Conversion to Hospital Ship

In 1915, during the height of World War I, the ship was requisitioned by the Royal Navy and converted into a hospital ship. The conversion included the installation of medical facilities, operating theaters, and wards to accommodate wounded soldiers. The ship was painted white with large red crosses to signify its status as a hospital ship, in accordance with the Hague Convention.

Service History

HMHS Aberdonian served primarily in the North Sea and the English Channel, transporting wounded soldiers from the front lines to hospitals in the United Kingdom. The ship played a crucial role in the evacuation of casualties during major battles, including the Battle of the Somme and the Battle of Passchendaele.

Post-War Service and Decommissioning

After the end of World War I in 1918, HMHS Aberdonian continued to serve as a hospital ship for a brief period. In 1919, the ship was decommissioned and returned to its original owners. It was eventually scrapped, marking the end of its service.

Legacy

HMHS Aberdonian is remembered for its significant contribution to the medical efforts during World War I. The ship's service exemplifies the critical role of hospital ships in providing medical care and evacuating wounded soldiers from the battlefield.

See Also

• Hospital ship
• Royal Navy
• World War I
• Battle of the Somme
• Battle of Passchendaele