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Naval Traditions and Culture

Naval traditions and culture encompass a wide range of activities, events, and objects, often unique to naval service. Some, like the ?crossing the line? (meaning, the equator) ceremony, are old and well-established, while others, such as gun shield art, related directly to Second World War experiences. Many reflect companionship, commemoration, recreation, or esprit de corps.

Model 6-inch Naval Gun
Model 6-inch Naval Gun

This working model of a 6-inch naval gun, firing .22 calibre ammunition, is an intricate example of the machinist's craft.

Made in 1943, it is a scaled-down example of a type of naval gun used for coastal defence in Atlantic Canada. As with the full-size original, hand wheels traverse the gun from side to side, and elevate and depress the weapon. The gun's breech, where the ammunition is inserted, closes and locks with one movement of a lever. Intricate working models like this were popular pastimes for machinists, and served both as a demonstration of skill and as ornaments or gifts.

Model, Naval Gun, 6-Inch
CWM 19650020-001

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Dawn Gun Stations in HMCS Pictou
Daisy Mae, HMCS Mayflower
HMCS Westaskiwin's Gun Shield Art
HMCS Shawinigan's Gun Shield Art
HMCS Rosthern Insignia
Ship's Badge, HMCS Inch Arran
Concert Party, HMS Canada
Jam Session at Sea, Seamen's Mess
"Crossing the Line" Ceremony
Boxing, HMCS Swansea
Naval Wedding, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Royal Canadian Navy Rum
"Beatty" Toby Jug
"Jellicoe" Toby Jug
Jewellery Box
Christmas Trees, HMCS Border Cities
Dining in the Wardroom, HMS Puncher
Model 6-inch Naval Gun
Model Cannon
Royal Naval College of Canada Rugby Game
Shearwater Flyers National Football Championship, 1957
Sunset Ceremony
Anniversary Celebrations, Quebec City
Dockside Religious Service
"Piping the Side"
Bosun's Call
Ship's Bell, HMCS Swansea
Ship's Bell, HMCS Inch Arran