home
Special Themes

Naval Traditions and Culture

Naval traditions and culture encompass a wide range of activities, events, and objects, often unique to naval service. Some, like the "crossing the line" (meaning, the equator) ceremony, are old and well-established, while others, such as gun shield art, related directly to Second World War experiences. Many reflect companionship, commemoration, recreation, or esprit de corps.

Model Cannon
Model Cannon

This brass model cannon, probably made from shell casings fired in combat, belonged to Canadian naval officer Thomas Charles Pullen.

Commemorative items like this, often made from objects associated with specific events, have long been popular keepsakes for military personnel. Pullen was aboard the Canadian destroyer HMCS Saskatchewan when, in company with HMCS Qu'apelle, HMCS Skeena, and HMCS Restigouche, it engaged and destroyed German ships escorting surfaced submarines. The cannon is probably made of brass taken from shell casings fired during this combat.

Model, Muzzle Loading Cannon
CWM 19840309-002





Dawn Gun Stations in HMCS Pictou
Daisy Mae, HMCS Mayflower
HMCS Westaskiwin's Gun Shield Art
HMCS Shawinigan's Gun Shield Art
HMCS Rosthern Insignia
Ship's Badge, HMCS Inch Arran
Concert Party, HMS Canada
Jam Session at Sea, Seamen's Mess
"Crossing the Line" Ceremony
Boxing, HMCS Swansea
Naval Wedding, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Royal Canadian Navy Rum
"Beatty" Toby Jug
"Jellicoe" Toby Jug
Jewellery Box
Christmas Trees, HMCS Border Cities
Dining in the Wardroom, HMS Puncher
Model 6-inch Naval Gun
Model Cannon
Royal Naval College of Canada Rugby Game
Shearwater Flyers National Football Championship, 1957
Sunset Ceremony
Anniversary Celebrations, Quebec City
Dockside Religious Service
"Piping the Side"
Bosun's Call
Ship's Bell, HMCS Swansea
Ship's Bell, HMCS Inch Arran