1897 LAND HO!
One of Nelson’s former flagships, HMS Foudroyant, lies helpless on a Blackpool beach. Launched in 1798, she had seen some glamorous service, but was sold by the Navy to enthusiast Wheatley Cobb in 1890. He toured the impressive ship around seaside towns, but one stormy night in June 1897, she broke anchor, hit a pier and ran aground on the Sands. Those eager to make a quick penny started selling souvenirs made from her wood. Unfortunately, she was destroyed in another storm later that year.
GETTY