TITANIC INTEREST: FRAMED CERTIFICATE FROM THE WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF SHIPWRIGHTS.

Titanic Interest: An oak framed certificate from the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights signed by Lord Pirrie who was chairman of Harland and Wolff in 1909. He was the master for one year only in 1909 so : 1862 became a premium apprentice at Harland and Wolff. 1868 Appointed chief draughtsman 1874 both Edward Harland and Gustav Wolff, the founders of the firm, wished to pursue other business interests and Pirrie was made a partner in the firm. 1879 Pirrie married his cousin Margaret Montgomery Carlisle (d. 1935); the couple had no children. Pirrie was said to be remarkably persuasive in selling ships but many orders were won only by offering very generous financing. By late 1880s, the firm was building large liners on 4% commission, in return for all of the customer's repair work and future contracts. Pirrie developed close relations with several large shipping companies, notably the White Star Line, Baltimore Steerage and Lighterage Co, Elder Dempster, and the African Steamship Co. 1892 Became a director of the African Steamship Company. 1893 With help from Wolff, formed an alliance with the Hamburg-Amerika Line and the Union Steamship Co. 1894 Elected to Belfast Corporation. 1895 After Harland's death, Pirrie became chairman of Harland and Wolff. He was also elected lord mayor of Belfast.

FRAME SIZE: 60cm x 80.