Truelove flag to be conserved after four decades on display
FLAG FROM WHALER NEEDS CLEANING AND REPAIRING
THE Truelove flag is to be conserved as part of the Hull Maritime project - after spending four decades on display.
The 147-year-old flag hung from the north wall of the old Pickering Park Museum and was later on display at Hull Maritime Museum for more than 40 years.
Last month, the rare 15ft-wide flag of the Hull whaler Truelove was lowered from the ground floor wall and moved to the Court Room, where textile specialist, Kate
Stockwell, has been assessing its condition and taken a closer look at the work needed.
Records show that the flag was last treated in 1974, when the lining was removed and washed several times, along with repairs to the stitching and relining using new backing fabric. After more than 40 years of open display at ceiling height, the flag will require thorough yet delicate cleaning and localised repairs before it is mounted on a bespoke aluminium frame for an improved display arrangement that meets current museum standards.
Stathis Tsolis, conservation and engagement officer, said: “This flag has been on display for more than 40 years and in need of some treatment to save it for future generations.
“The large flag has a fascinating story to tell and the conservation treatment will ensure visitors will be able to admire it in the best possible condition.”
Once conserved, it will be packed using a bespoke container until it returns to the refurbished museum to be prominently displayed as part of the new exhibition.
The Truelove was a Hull whaler with a long history, having been built in Philadelphia in 1764, and used during the American War of Independence (1775-1783).
During this conflict the Truelove was captured by the British. It was then sold to John Voase, a wine merchant and ship owner in Hull.
After being strengthened, the Truelove began life as a whale ship in 1784, and made 72 voyages to the Arctic and caught more than 400 whales under various captain, making her last whaling voyage in 1868, when she and the Diana where the only whalers sailing from Hull.
In 1873, the Truelove sailed as a merchant ship back into its home port of Philadelphia after a 109-year career.
After causing a stir with the locals aware of its heritage, Captain Thomas Weatherill was presented with this flag.
Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Hull City Council, five key maritime treasures – the Arctic Corsair, North End Shipyard, Spurn Lightship, Dock Office Chambers and the Hull Maritime Museum – will be transformed by the Hull Maritime project.