Captain George Peacock was a unique Devonian character who’s extraordinary story is still largely unknown. An explorer and inventor born in Exmouth, he was instrumental in surveying the Isthmus of Corinth, and was the first to navigate a steam ship through the Straits of Magellan.
As an inventor, he created a device for turning saltwater into fresh, a screw propeller, and an inflatable bathing costume. He is best remembered in the Devon area for building a giant swan shaped boat with cygnet dinghies.
We build two Swan Rickshaws to perambulate members of the public around the quay, and tell them the story of the Captain’s exploits.
Captain Peacock’s crew have returned finally to the Exeter Quay, ahead of their leader. Dressed in extraordinary costumes of 19th century sailors that are somewhat past their best, these larger than life rag-tag characters come from all corners of the world, and carry an array of strange, half finished inventions. To prepare for the arrival of the captain, they must retrieve the parts of several of his inventions from around the quay, and construct and test them before he returns. They will of course need the assistance on whomsoever may be on the quay at the time.
Audience members joined glass plate photographer Raff to dress as famous Victorians and have their photos taken, and then could experience animations of Captain Peacock’s excursions to South America, and his prescient inventions