UPDATE: Hidden treasures have been unearthed from the historic Tall Ship Glenlee in Glasgow! Following the removal of two of its three masts for the first time in 30 years, a 1998 gold sovereign, a silver dollar, and a scroll have been discovered nestled in a commemorative wooden box at the base of the main mast.
The masts, set to be transported to Essex on Tuesday for essential refurbishment, made way for this remarkable find. The scroll celebrates the contributions of the Trust and Ship Committee members who played a pivotal role in the ship’s restoration process.
Ten-year-old Tom Gibson was present during the original mast stepping in 1998, where he tossed a 10p coin into the mast base alongside the official box. Now, as an engineer with CalMac, he expressed his astonishment: “I never thought I would see it again!” This moment highlights the deep connection between the ship and the community.
The act of placing coins beneath the mast is an ancient maritime tradition believed to bestow good luck upon the vessel. While the restoration work unfolds over the coming months, the box and its contents will be securely stored in the museum, awaiting their return along with a new 2026 coin and Tom’s cherished 10p coin.
Lauren Henning, museum and learning manager, emphasized the significance of this discovery, stating, “While the dramatic lifting of the masts has quite rightly been the focus of attention this week, the rediscovery of the box reminds us what a remarkable achievement the 1990s restoration project was.” She added that Tom’s coin brings a child’s perspective to the ship’s story, enriching its legacy beyond engineering and conservation.
The Tall Ship Glenlee, built in 1896 in Port Glasgow, has an illustrious history, having circumnavigated the globe five times as a merchant vessel. Saved from disrepair in the 1990s by the now-renowned Tall Ship Glenlee Trust, it has been lovingly restored and stands today as the last remaining three-masted Clyde-built sailing ship still afloat in the UK.
As restoration efforts continue, the Tall Ship Glenlee remains open to the public, inviting visitors to engage with its rich history and the personal stories that resonate through time. This latest development not only shines a light on the ship’s storied past but also connects it to the community and the individuals who cherish its legacy.
Stay tuned for more updates as the restoration progresses, and don’t miss the chance to witness history at the Tall Ship Glenlee!
