This section brings together the approximately 700 objects and photographs used in Canada's Naval History. Use this section to directly access objects and photographs grouped by type, as shown below, or use the search function above to search through them by title.

HMCS St. Catharines entering Esquimalt Harbour

In this drawing, the Yarrows-built frigate HMCS St. Catharines, accompanied by the naval tug Haro, is returning from post-completion sea trials.

Sea trials evaluated a ship's performance and seaworthiness, and had to be successfully completed before a ship could enter service. After being commissioned in mid-1943, St. Catharines was transferred to the Atlantic, taking part in the 1944 boarding and destruction of the German submarine U-744. In the foreground are some of Esquimalt's defences, located on Duntze Head. They include a searchlight and a twin 6-pounder quick firing gun designed to counter small, fast-moving vessels.

HMCS St. Catharines Entering Esquimalt Harbour
Drawn by Rowley Murphy in 1943
Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19710261-2399