Transport and travel

As to means of ingress and egress, a sailing packet left the stone pier, Kilcreggan, for Greenock on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9.00am returning thence at 3.00pm. The "Breadalbane" ran daily from Glasgow to Lochgoil. Her course was from Gourock to the ferry at the foot of Hartfield Road, and on to Ardentinny. The Gareloch service was performed by the "Sovereign", "Monarch", "Emperor" and "Prince". The last was withdrawn after colliding with a ship coming out of Greenock East Harbour. The ship's bowsprit overturned the steamer's funnel and the steam in the cylinder escaped with a report like an explosion, causing several passengers to jump into the river. (They were rescued and the steamer taken to the pier with much difficulty. The present writer was on board.) In 1851 the "Merlin" from Rothesay took Strone Pier and Hartfield Ferry on her way morning and evening. In 1853 the "Ardentinny" began the Kilmun service. In 1855 the "Express", and afterwards the "Mail" and "Benmore" took her place.