Neptune and the Pollywogs

Royal Navy History Tradition Military Veterans

Neptune and the Pollywogs is an in-depth study of the most traditional of seafaring initiation ceremonies, Crossing of the Line, which is performed when one of Her Majesty's Ships crosses the equator.

Neptune and the Pollywogs examine the rites historical roots, follows its chronological evolution, formalities and observances, the parts and origin of the characters used in the ceremonies historic and modern-day practice.

Furthermore, this book reveals the Admiralties pamphlet, issued in September 1946, which outline the ceremonies procedure and its conduct following H. M. S. Renown's crossing, when the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VIII, was a willing Pollywog.

The crossings of HMS Deer Sound and HMS Perseus are recorded using original documentation.
Included, primarily for entertainment, is the anecdotal story of the SS Warrimoo. Published in conjunction with the Royal Navy Research Archives.com