Object Description
A complete 20th century garden dining table and four chairs made from teak taken from World War II ship, S. S. Begum. Made by the Hughes Bolckow Shipbreaking Company of Blyth, this functional teak garden dining set is innovatively designed, the four chairs tucking perfectly beneath the tabletop when not in use. A rare find, this set is in good, complete condition and is steeped in history.
Also known as the HMS Begum, the S. S. Begum was built in America and originally intended for use in the USA. On its completion in July 1943, the ship was leased to Britain to serve in the Royal Navy during World War II. Initially an escort aircraft carrier, the S. S. Begum later served as protection for Allied shipping in May 1944. Following the end of WWII, the S. S. Begum returned to the USA for use as a cargo ship. It was during this conversion that this garden dining table and four chairs was made. The S. S. Begum was sold for demolition in March 1974.
Established at the beginning of the 20th century, the Hughes Bolckow Shipbreaking Company dismantled obsolete warships at their premises in Blyth, Northumberland. The wood from these ships was transformed into furniture and garden items such as this teak garden dining set from the S. S. Begum. An identical table to this one appears in an advert for Hughes Bolckow garden furniture (pictured).
Additional Dimensions
Table top: 83.5 x 83.5 cm
Seat height: 39.5 cm
Seat width & depth: 38 x 38 cm