Hibernia:
Recognize This Ship?

Painting of one ship of the McCorkell Line, based in Derry in the 18th and 19th centuries.
By Irish America Staff
October / November 2000
It could be the same vessel that carried your ancestors to America. It is one of a collection of 11 paintings of the McCorkell Shipping Line in Derry. The McCorkell line was operated and owned by William McCorkell & Co., Ltd. from 1778 to 1897 for the principal purpose of carrying passengers to the Americas. Unlike the infamous “coffin ships,” cargo vessels hastily outfitted to transport passengers, the McCorkell ships established a reputation for honesty and efficiency. ♦