TW429392 Opening of the South Dock, Sunderland, 1850, 1853 (oil on canvas) by Thompson, Mark (1812-1875); 91.5x132.5 cm; Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, Tyne & Wear, UK; (add.info.: This large and elaborate picture shows the opening of Sunderland South Docks on June 20th 1850 by George Hudson MP. Almost in the centre of the harbour is Sunderland\'s ceremonial barge, with a cabin decorated in gold and red. Behind it is a fine array of ships, including a large steam passenger boat on the right. On the far side of the docks, ships are lined up alongside the coal staiths (wharves). In the distance is the Durham and Sunderland Railway, which Hudson also promoted, and which opened in 1836. Mark Thompson was a Wearside artist;); 穢 Sunderland Museums ; British, out of copyright.