Bombay Dockmaster With Megaphone, 1910 Postcard
A 1910 photo postcard of a dockmaster with a megaphone at a Bombay Dock. An interesting glimpse of a dockmaster at work in one of Bombay’s docks. Here he seems to be communicating with someone on the ship not visible in the picture. A huge conical-shaped mechanical megaphone in front of him. His assistant holding another just behind him. With a curious crowd looking on in some sort of amused anticipation. Three on-looking Britishers are also seen at the back.
A Dockmaster’s role was that he was responsible for all aspects of a dock. One of his duties was to deal with the ship’s sailors and crew. The Dockmaster’s duty also involved checking a ship in and out of parking slots. And at a larger dock, he would be equally responsible for guiding a huge freighter into a dry dock. Bombay docks included the Victoria, Alexandra, Princess, and Sassoon Docks. These were built by the British in the late 19th century and early 20th century.
See also post Bombay Docks In British India Era – Old Photo 1916., and Aerial View of Bombay Harbour & Dock – Old Print 1931.
Did you know- that once Elephants were used to move cargo in the docks of Mumbai.
From the collection- Vintage Oleograph Raja Ravi Varma “Vishnu On Sheshnag”., Farewell At The Gateway of India Mumbai, Old Photo 1931., Colaba Point Lighthouse In Mumbai – Old Print 1868., San Thome Fort Madras – Antique Map 1757
