The progress of this leviathan vessel excites interest akin to that of the Thames Tunnel, a wonder of the same locality. As you steam down the river, many are the objects on the banks to arrest your attention; and, although the domes of Greenwich Hospital are still striking objects, the chief attraction is 'the big ship' now to be seen in progress of construction in the building-yard of Messrs. Scott Russell and Co., in Millwall, or the Isle of Dogs. From the point of view chosen by our Artist for his Illustration, the appearance of the ship, stretching over long rows of buildings, is most extraordinary; and, great as is its present length, the vessel is still growing at both the head and stern, it requiring 50 feet at one end and 70 feet at the other—in all 120 feet to complete the work.
SOURCE: The Illustrated London News, May 24, 1856