 Depiction of the 1864 explosion from the Illustrated London News
| |
| History | |
|---|---|
| Name | Lottie Sleigh |
| Owner | Mr Hatton and Mr Cookson |
| Builder | Shipyard on Prince Edward Island |
| Completed | 1852 |
| Out of service | 15 January 1864 (following explosion) |
| Fate | Sold for scrap 27 January 1864 |
| General characteristics | |
| Tonnage | 700 long tons (710 t) |
| Sail plan | Barque |
The Lottie Sleigh was a sailing barque built in 1852. She was transporting 11 long tons (11 tonnes) of gunpowder on the River Mersey when she exploded on 15 January 1864. There were no deaths but the explosion caused extensive damage to Birkenhead and its effects were felt across Liverpool. The noise of the explosion could be heard from 39 miles (63 km) away. The Lottie Sleigh was severely damaged and was sold for scrap on 27 January. Discussions over insurance liability for the property damage led to a court decision that is important in insurance case law.