When Shippies’ first opened in 1846, Battery Point was a very different place.
It was a bustling centre for the busy shipbuilding industry; the waterfront was lined with shipyards and jetties for fishing boats and the atmosphere was decidedly working class.
The nobs built their mansions well away from the waterfront in places like New Town and rarely ventured into tough areas like Battery Point.
Shippies’ was one of many pubs catering to thirsty workers and fishermen and there are many still living who can remember the days when it had an earth floor with sawdust renewed weekly.
Much extended since this photograph from some time early in the 20th century showing workers removing shingles ready for a modern tin roof, Shippies’ still has that welcoming common touch, whether you’re a nob or just an ordinary Joe.
