Historic German Merchant Ship Prinz Eitel Friedrich

The photograph captures the German merchant ship Prinz Eitel Friedrich, a notable vessel commissioned in 1906. This ship saw significant action during World War I, originally serving as a cargo and passenger liner. After being repurposed as a commerce raider, it operated in the Pacific, interrupting Allied shipping lanes until its capture by the United States in 1915. The image likely dates back to the early 1910s, showcasing the vessels distinct design that included a sharp bow and multiple decks, representative of German naval engineering of the era.

Bain News Service was instrumental in documenting maritime history, and this glass negative serves to highlight the importance of naval transport during a time of escalating global conflict. The Prinz Eitel Friedrichs journey reflects the broader naval strategies employed by nations during World War I, providing insights into the vital links between commerce and military operations of the time. This image thus serves not just as a record of a ship, but also as a testament to the historical maritime context of its era.