The Ship's Wheelhouse

The speed and direction of the ship was controlled from the wheelhouse on orders from the Captain or the officer on the Compass Platform (bridge) by voice pipe. Orders were received as to the speed and direction the ship should make and the quartermaster would steer the ship and transmit speed instructions to the engine room by means of the Ship's Telegraph and, or Revolution Counter on either side on the helm. The quartermaster, when standing at the helm, cannot see the bow of the ship. He steers by the direction of the compass as given to him from the compass platform. The Wireless Telegraph space was located behind the quartermaster where the communicator (sparker) copied communication with shore and other ships. Radio (transmit) silence was standard procedure because submarines could detect and locate the ship when messages were sent. Continuous radio watch (receive) was maintained for messages transmitted from shore. Messages received were decoded and immediately passed to the bridge. The bunk is for the use of the Captain, who could rest here, but still have quick access to the bridge. The desk, charts and books are for use of the Navigating Officer. Charts for most of the world were stored here.