1896 Samuel Fletcher arrives at Blackpool

A new Watson Class 36ft 2in twelve-oared Watson lifeboat, Samuel Fletcher of Manchester ON393, built at a cost of £591, was placed on service in December.

Samuel Fletcher on Parade in Foxhall Rd in 1897

This was the second boat of this name stationed at Blackpool. The original Samuel Fletcher of Manchester ON74, weighed in at three tons and was too heavy. So it was requested that the builders supply a light pulling boat more suitable for shore launching.

The naming ceremony of the first Samuel Fletcher of Manchester in 1885 as detailed in the London Illustrated News..

The naming ceremony of the first Samuel Fletcher of Manchester in 1885