Plimsoll Day

Plimsoll Day is celebrated on February 10 every year. Those who know what the Plimsoll line is will know the reason for this compliance. In honor of Samuel Plimsoll, a British politician and social reformer of the time advocated for the safety of sailors while sailing the world's waterways in overcrowded ships. He is also responsible for safer commercial travel. His tireless efforts for the welfare of sailors have saved many lives and are still saving many. Plimsoll Day is dedicated to celebrating Samuel Plimsoll and his incredible work for the betterment of sailors.

History of Plimsoll Day

Samuel Plimsoll was born on February 10, 1824, in Bristol, England. While living in poverty, a young man named Plimsoll devoted his life to helping the poor. In 1867, he became a Member of Parliament (MP). He devoted himself to making ships safer for their crews. At this time, shipping is the most popular method of freight. It is also very dangerous. Ship owners often put crew members at risk by overloading ships. These ships are called coffin ships because they have claimed the lives of so many sailors.

The bills Plimsoll put forward were often strangled by members of the wealthy shipping merchants in Congress. In 1872, he published a work entitled Our Seaman: An Appeal. Two years later, Plimsoll achieved its goal when Congress passed the Unworthy Ships Bill. Under the bill, ship owners are required to place a special sign on the side of their ships. When this line disappears below the waterline, it means the vessel is overloaded. This sign is called the Plimsoll line. This simple invention is said to be able to save 22 lives a day.

After serving time in Congress, Plimsoll was honorary president of National Sailors' and Fireman's Union. As an honorary president, he drew attention to the horrors of cattle-carrying ships. Overcrowding prevented the animals from being transported on these ships.

How to Celebrate Plimsoll Day

What to do to celebrate Plimsoll Day? You have already started learning about the Plimsoll lines and how they make transportation safer throughout the word. Why not continue learning about shipping at a local maritime museum? Don't live near water and shipping routes? Don't worry, you can use the Internet to keep learning more. Another way you can celebrate this day is to support shipping by purchasing goods that are brought through the water.

Yes, you heard me right - go shopping! The more demand there is for goods delivered this way, the more opportunities there are for the shipping and the team working to deliver those goods. So you have it! You need to shop to help others! Welcome, I've cleared your guilt so go have a good time. Let your friends and family know and turn it into a group shopping session. While you're out learning and having fun, remember to send a silent thank you to Samuel Plimsoll.

You can share your Plimsoll Day celebration on social media using the hashtag #PlimsollDay.