First World War (1914-1918)
HMCS Grilse, Torpedo Boat

HMCS Grilse was the Royal Canadian Navy's fastest ship during the First World War. Originally built as the yacht Winchester, Grilse was converted to a torpedo boat and served off Canada's Atlantic coast.

Two Sailors on Board HMCS Grilse

Sailor Isaac Ernest Brown (right) and an unidentified comrade pose on the open bridge of HMCS Grilse.

Brown, on the right, rests his hand on the ship's wheel. The other sailor rests his right hand on the bridge telegraph, which sent a signal to the engine room to reduce or increase speed, or to reverse the engines. Grilse, built as a civilian yacht, retained its open bridge after conversion to a torpedo boat. Without protection, the bridge could be a wet and miserable place when Grilse ventured out to sea. 

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 19820331-005