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.

Ship's Bell, HMCS Swansea

This ship's bell from HMCS Swansea carries the names of three children for which the bell was used as a baptismal font.

Children of the ship's crew can be baptized or christened on board ship, with the bell used as a baptismal font to hold the water for the ceremony. Subsequently, the children's names and their dates of baptism are engraved on the bell.

Ship's Bell
CWM 19660080-001