Keying: London’s Royal Chinese Junk Sensation of 1848

The Keying, a distinctive Chinese junk, made history as the first Chinese ship to visit London, captivating Victorian audiences with its unique design and cultural offerings. Secretly purchased in 1846 by British businessmen and Captain Charles Alfred Kellett against Chinese laws, the vessel embarked on a perilous journey from Hong Kong. Its voyage included rounding the Cape of Good Hope and becoming the first Chinese ship to reach New York City in July 1847, where it generated immense excitement, even inspiring PT Barnum to build a replica. Praised for its robust seaworthiness, reportedly surpassing British vessels in storms, the Keying also achieved a phenomenal 21-day Atlantic crossing, albeit with a tragic loss of a crew member.

Arriving in London in April 1848, the Keying anchored first at East India Dock and later moved to the more central Temple Pier. It was opened as a public attraction, offering a rare glimpse into Chinese culture. Its royal endorsement cemented its status: Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, and other dignitaries were among its earliest visitors, leading to its popular designation as the “Royal Chinese Junk.” For a shilling, visitors could explore the 50-meter long ship, marvel at its 17-tonne rudder, and discover Chinese curiosities, from the galley to the “Gorgeously furnished” Grand Saloon, with crew members like painter Sam-Sing and calligrapher Hesing showcasing their talents.

Despite its initial success and royal patronage, the Keying’s popularity waned after about two years at Temple Pier. Possible factors included the novelty wearing off, competition from the Great Exhibition of 1851, and the unpleasant “effluvium” from a nearby open sewer. By 1852, the ship was retired to the West India Import Dock, eventually purchased by a Birkenhead firm. After a brief final public display in Cheshire, the once celebrated vessel was “rotting neglected and uncared” and broken up without ceremony by the end of 1855, just seven years after its celebrated arrival in London.

(Source: https://londonist.com/london/history/the-first-chinese-ship-to-visit-london)