HMS Montagu

HMS Montagu was a Duncan-class battleship of the Royal Navy. Launched in 1901, she was named after John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich, a prominent British statesman of the 18th century. The ship was part of the Channel Fleet and later the Atlantic Fleet, serving in various capacities until her grounding and subsequent loss in 1906.

Design and Construction

The HMS Montagu was built by Devonport Dockyard, with her keel laid down in March 1900. She was launched on 5 March 1901 and completed in April 1902. The ship was 432 feet long, with a beam of 75.5 feet and a draught of 25.5 feet. She was powered by two 4-cylinder triple-expansion steam engines, which drove two propeller shafts, and could reach a top speed of 19 knots.

Service History

After her commissioning, HMS Montagu joined the Channel Fleet. In 1904, she was transferred to the Atlantic Fleet. During her service, she participated in various fleet exercises and manoeuvres.

Grounding and Loss

On 30 May 1906, while conducting night-time manoeuvres off Lundy Island, HMS Montagu ran aground. Despite efforts to salvage her, the ship was declared a total loss. The wreck of the Montagu is still visible today and is a popular site for divers.

Legacy

The loss of the HMS Montagu led to significant changes in the Royal Navy's procedures for night-time manoeuvres and navigational training. The incident also highlighted the need for improved navigational aids around Lundy Island, leading to the construction of the Lundy Lighthouse.