Lloyd's tobacco box presented to the men of HMS 'Powerful', 1900.

Silver tobacco box of flattened circular form with a hinged spring lid and a slightly concave base; the interior is gilt. The outside of the lid is engraved with the badge from the coat of arms of Lloyd's Corporation and inscribed: 'LLOYD'S 7TH MAY 1900'. The base is inscribed: 'Silver Tobacco Box Presented by "Lloyds" to the men of HMS "Powerful" who took part in the gallant defence of Ladysmith'.

Men of the Naval Brigades from HMS ‘Powerful’, the 1st Class Cruiser of 1895, fought during the relief of the Siege of Ladysmith 1889-90 during the 2nd Boer war. The ship, under the command of Captain the Hon. Hedworth Lambton, also transported two heavy 4.7 inch naval guns and four 12 pounders to Ladysmith, which made an important impact on the outcome of the siege.

For their contribution at Ladysmith the men of HMS 'Powerful' were feted at Portsmouth on their return, and invited to a Reception at Lloyd's of London on 7 May 1900, for which the Museum also holds a copy of the souvenir programme (see AAB0498.) Earlier in the day the Naval Brigade from the 'Powerful' had come to London for inspection by the Prince of Wales and the Lords of the Admiralty. They were afterwards entertained for refreshments in the Admiralty buildings. In the afternoon the Brigade marched by the Victoria Embankment to the City, being cheered all the way by the crowds, and after visiting the Royal Exchange, they were entertained to tea at Lloyd's, and then marched to London Bridge Station where they took the train to Portsmouth.