The State Barge, made in 1866/67 by James Henry Pullen. Image credit: Justine Desmond. Lent by the Down's Syndrome Association & Langdon Down Museum.
James Henry Pullen (1835-1916) was a young child when he began carving small boats out of wood. Some of his most ambitious projects were elaborate model ships, including a 10ft replica of Isambard Kingdom Brunel's SS Great Eastern. He also created fantasy craft such as The State Barge which was designed as a floating office for Queen Victoria and is on display in our exhibition ‘A history of Care or Control?’.
This intricate object, made from ebony and rare timbers, features two ivory angels on one side which appear in conflict with a brass tongued devil attempting to haul the boat back. The ivory came from tusks given to Pullen by his patron, Edward VII, who took great interest in him and his endeavours. On closer inspection, a desk and miniature documents can be seen through the circular windows showcasing Pullen’s incredible eye for detail.
Despite spending most of his time hand carving boats, a mode of transport known for exploration and adventure, Pullen was confined to Earlswood Asylum his entire adult life (an institution for people with a learning disability) as he was deemed unable to communicate effectively. During his time in Earlswood, Pullen trained in woodwork and in later life was the resident carpenter and made furniture for the asylum.
Have a look at our online exhibition or visit in person to learn more about Pullen’s story and the journey of learning disability nursing over the last 150 years.
