As a young merchant navy apprentice deck officer in the mid sixties, when in Hamburg we always had the same elderly nightwatchman on the gangway by the name of Werner-Emden. He had been a young seaman on the SMS Emden and delighted in telling us the story the ship. My surname is the same as his old commanding officer and this was an added connection. He must have been in his mid seventies then and was a charming man who loathed war. Apparently the crew of the SMS Emden were permitted to append the name Emden to their surnames if they wished as a mark of respect for their part in the exploits of the german warship.
An amazing story of chivalry, daring, and courage on both sides. This story could very easily be made into a Hollywood film as it has all the ingredients.
For the historians. I know well the history of the Sydney Emden action as a former naval officer of 30 years service in the RAN and have a strange family connection here. My grandfather Ralph Kell of the 13th Battalion 1st AIF, was on one of the troop transports (HMT Minator I think) that HMAS Sydney was escorting to the Middle East in 1914 to later land at Gallipoli. He later went to France and was de-mobbed and repatriated to Australia in 1917. The surviving officers of the Emden were sent to Australia and incarcerated at Berrima Jail near Bowral NSW where my grandmother, then Doris Crawford, lived. She and her friends would visit these men; they formed friendships with them and even participated in social activities such as boating regattas with them!! I still have a beautifully carved box that was made by one of these gentlemen and a photo of him that came with it with the annotation 'A small token of my deepest regard and respect, 28 January 1919'. Clearly he had eyes for her! After the war Doris met and married Ralph Kell. They produced three children including my mother and that is why I am here today to tell this tale. Cheers from Australian/Kiwi cuz
Wow. You know, I’ve seen several documentaries about the Emden, but until today never heard a word about the odyssey of von Moltke and his party. What a neat find. Well done.
Good evening! Thanks for a most informative video. The saga of the SMS Emden and the Ayesha has fascinated me since I was an adolescent. I believe that the ship, herself, was awarded the Iron Cross by the Kaiser and every successive ship to carry the name had a large EK-I mounted on the bow. (I can't speak to the Bundesmarine). Additionally the crewmembers (at least the officers) were entitled to add "Emden" to their surname, I.e. von Lauterbach-Emden. One of the Kaiser's nephews served aboard her and when he wrote his memoirs even though the title page lists him as Franz, Prinz von Hohenzollern, the publishers didn't miss a trick and the book's spine reflects "von Hohenzollern / Emden". 👍😎 P.S.: An interesting video might be the fate of HMAS Sidney II, who sank; an was in turn sunk by, a German raider, the Cormorant, in the Pacific. There is some mystery there as a book I read said that one of the Sidney's lifeboats now on display appears to be holed by bullets of a caliber compatible with the armament of a Japanese submarine. 🤔
That theory of a Japanese submarine being in the area has now been discounted. IJN records (available after the war) didn't show any sub being there. Anyway, the Pearl Harbour attack was just one month away and IJN officers would have been under orders not to do anything that would alert the Allies that something was up. The Japanese told no one in advance about Pearl Harbour, not even their German allies. Goebbels dismissed the news as "just another trick of the enemy" when first told of it.
As an added side note . After the war the crew of the emdem were allowed to add or change their last name to emdem . A great story well told thank you for keeping alive these dying tales.
Absolutely wonderful, really love the story of Von Muller, he sounds like a real gentleman sailor who cared for his men and opponents alike. I remember reading a lovely article in an old newspaper regarding the Emden and Von Muller, much like the manner in which British papers recounted the sinking of the Scharnhorst in WW2, they wrote something along the lines of 'its almost a shame we had to sink her but she had to go'. They went on to write very affectionately about Von Muller and his chivalry as well as the ships exploits in a way that almost sounded like they were on their side. Frustratingly, I can't find a link to the actual newspaper report, I will keep looking! If anyone knows the document I am referring, I would love to read it again. Super video and love the channel! Thank you
Fascinating story. I had heard of the Emden's exploits, but didn't know them in any great detail, so it was a treat to be educated as to what they achieved. I was also absolutely riveted by the story of Von Moltke's party and their odyssey, that in itself is a tale for the ages. A very enjoyable video, thankyou for your efforts.
I am familiar with this ship Emden. Years ago I came across a colourful hard-bound copy of Warships and it was there I found this story very brief. What you say now keeps me engaged and immersed. Great! The
What about a Program on'' Operation Unthinkable '' ? with due regard to Kim Philby's part in relaying the full details to Stalin , Who was reading the messages before Truman ! This was happening before the War in Europe ended and to my way of thinking was resposable for Stalins paranoia , Maybe the direct Cause of the Cold war ,And totally down to Churchill...........I enjoyed your program on the Emden , I remember in the 1970s reading '' The Last Corsair '' a great read .
I said last time that Chris stands on equal footing with Drachinfel, though their approaches to naval history are from different angles. That said, while there is certainly room on UA-cam for the more data-driven side of history as presented by Drachinfel, what truly grips the interest of most students of history, as far as I have ever found, are the personal accounts of those involved in the stories. The story of a battle will never be as interesting as the stories of the man who fought in it. Chris presents those stories with a nuance I have yet to find on another channel.
Jesse, thanks for your kind words. Yes, it would be good to tell stories about people (especially the ordinary people) in these historical events. The trouble is that those accounts are not always easily available. Onwards and upwards.
Thanks Chris, that was very interesting. The Emden and their captain did a great job although there could only be one fatal outcome. As a Royal Navy veteran I enjoy hearing about naval engagements from any era.
Another great adventure was von Lettow-Vorbeck in Africa. When I served as an apprentice in Duesseldorf, Germany the night watch man at the store had served with him in Africa.
Wow, what an intriguing and interesting story, I love the idea of a rogue ship wrecking havoc during the war. He showed the chivalry which soon disappeared from history as you stated. I loved the story of shore party who were left behind still in the fight, as the old saying goes as long as I have blood or breath I will be in the fight. They traveled pretty far to make it back to the war, kudos to you, amigo.
Peter, I was thinking about doing Togoland. I seem to recall the first shot fired by a British soldier in WW1 occurred there (well, he was actually an African soldier but serving Britain).
Thank you for the wonderful story telling. A remarkable piece of history. A world war "broke out" quite unexpected for civilized people and even unknown to civilized people. It gives us a lot to think about todays situation.
😅Chris, HMAS Sydney's ( the number 1 SYDNEY in your story and painting), tripod mast head still survives in Sydney Australia. Much of her decking timber was turned into furniture and was distributed to naval bases. When I volunteered at the Australian War Memorial my document holding was from this Sydney's decking timber. Regards Gerard
An EXCELLENT choice of topic, Chris… edited & related with your customary flare & enthusiasm. 😊👍 I have loved the story of the Emden, ever since I read a book expressly devoted to her, when I was still at school… Not only is it a story of great adventure, exceptional seamanship & daring - not unlike the most exciting tales involving the famous Pirates of “The Golden Age of Sail” - but UNLIKE those tales, the Captain of the Emden exemplified the highest standards associated with a rapidly dwindling code of Chivalry & Honour, which - wherever possible - he extended to the Crew & Passengers of the many ships that he intercepted….. Chris did his usual magnificent job of relating the salient details of the Emden’s extraordinary voyage - also managing to condense the narrative into the easily watchable “bite sized chunk” that makes so many of his videos a fascinating & diverting watch that doesn’t necessitate a significant investment in time, for anyone burdened with a busy schedule. But, for anyone who found this story as fascinating as its subject matter deserves, I thoroughly recommend that they investigate it further & seek out a worthy book on the subject, as it’s a truly thrilling tale that truly deserves to be explored to the full…..
@@TheHistoryChap “Credit where credit’s due.” 🤝 You’re very welcome, Chris. Your Channel is a tremendous source of fascinating & riveting information, on a wealth of diverse Historical episodes that really do deserve to be told & shared with the style, passion, infectious enthusiasm & even handed narrative that is your admirable trademark. One only has to peruse the hugely positive feedback left in your Comments Section, to recognise that this is not just my opinion, but one that is rightly shared by all of your Subscribers… 🏆🥇 You really do deserve a MUCH larger audience - & with the unfailing consistency & frankly **extraordinary** frequency of your uploads (I honestly don’t know how you manage to research, prepare, film & edit so much excellent material in so little time! 🤷🏻♂️) I have NO DOUBT that your Channel will steadily grow, exponentially, to the size that it richly deserves. Keep it up, Chris & All the Best ~ LOUIS C.
Really appreciated this story. My brother Tom and I as boys in the 1950s would visit the Emdem's gun in Hyde Park Sydney. You gave a lot of extra detail. ThanksTed
Another entertaining and informative presentation. I'd love to see a series of videos regarding the Eastern Front in WW1, namely, The Galipoli campaigns.
A story of an old fashioned German gentleman and his valiant crew, and of course the achievement of the Australian navy, Australia always reaching the highest of standards in their military in all its services. Good show.
There was a 2-part documentary called Hunt the Kaisers Cruisers made by the ABC (Australian) which details this fascinating story including the German party which managed to escape through the Red Sea and the Ottoman Empire and eventually back to Germany. It is a great watch for those interested if you can find it.
Excellent video Chris, as always. It's quite comical to think that the British authorities on the Chagos Islands still had no idea that the war had begun. Looking forward to your next great presentation, thanks!
@@TheHistoryChap Can you make a video about the Dutch ship which disguised itself as an island to escape the Japanese? It is called the Abraham Crijnssen, which was a minesweeper. It is now a museum ship in Den Helder.
I must say, the Emden accomplished quite a bit in her short war service. Being feared by many and hunted by ships from multiple navies goes to show, from a certain point of view, just how remarkable of a ship she was. It was even more remarkable that she was sunk by a ship from a navy that had only recently been established. RESPECT FOR AUSTRALIA! It was also quite the accomplishment the journey the raiding party took to get to friendly territory. It was such a pity Captain Von Muller died of disease at a young age. It was an even greater pity Von Mocher became a Nazi after the war, but saw the errors of his ways, and paid the price for doing the right thing afterward. It was outstanding he became a pacifist and advocate for peace after the war and died as one. Those who knew and had been close to him should be proud!
We know so little of WW1, as compared to WW2. We all know of famous WW2 battles, legendary commanders etc etc etc. But in total contrast WW1 has not been a saleable commodity for Hollywood. And , perhaps, also for the print media. Your video is an eye opener to many, on the exploits of this ship. I first read about the Emden as a 7th grade student at Mayo College Ajmer, India, back in 1972.
Thankyou very much for this. I thoroughly recommend a series of Books by Mike Carlton. One of which ( First Victory) pertains to this very pair of Cruisers. The other books being "Flagship" and of course "Cruiser" which is the story of the Hmas Perth and Uss Houston and their epic last stand against overwhelming odds.
Hey Chris, something you may find interesting is apparently the very first shots fired in WW1 actually happened in Australia. War had been declared by Britain, and Australia then followed suit. There was a German merchant ship in Melbourne harbour that also got the news, and tried to sail from a now enemy country. The shore batteries fired across her bow which stopped it and the ship was captured. Meanwhile in Europe the opposing armies hadn't yet met in battle.
@@TheHistoryChap was the merchant vessel SS Pfalz and was fired upon by the coastal guns at Fort Nepean at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay in Melbourne. Was within minutes of the shore guns receiving the news that war was declared.
Ironically, during WW2, the second ship named HMAS Sydney was sunk by a German raider, the Kormoran, off the Western Australian coast with the loss of the entire crew of 645, none survived. The Kormoran was also mortally damaged during the action.
Another great piece from yourself. On a nautical theme my father in law was on MGBs during WW2. He was one of the crew of 316 boat of a flotilla used in ferrying both undercover operatives, have to assume that some were SOE, and taking off downed airmen. I used to have a lot of info. regarding her, the boat but I gave it all to my nephew! If you are interested I can do some more digging. I think the small boats do not get credit for their part in the war.
The Emden crew who sneaked out of Cocos Island were thinking about going to Mecca to ride on the Hejaz Railway to Constantinople then to Berlin. Unknown to them the railway was incomplete at the time and they had to sneak out of Mecca and hiked / fought a long way to the spot when the railway ended, before managing to commandeer a succession of trains to take them back home.
That was an interesting story that I really enjoyed. I never knew of the existence of tiny German navy as well as small colony's of her in Asia during beginning of first world war
How about the surface raider SMS Seeadler? One of the Emden's guns is in Hyde Park (the one pictured, the anti gun nutters wanted it removed), another at HMAS Penguin (Middle Head). There are relics at the Sydney Maritime Museum. There are also relics at a museum on Home Island, Cocos, where I visited. Glossop's actions weren't well received by his superiors as most of the Emden's casualties occured after she had run aground and was offering no resistance.....viewed as a bit of a war crime. Glossop was never given command of another ship.
@@TheHistoryChap Its a recurring theme actually. The sensational warrior who also has boundarys around what it's OK to do in wartime. Treatment of the enemies with respect equal to friends. Battle only between combatants, leaving non combatants out of it. Even his enemies regarding his ensign still flying as a sign he was still in the fight. Large and powerful countries could learn from his courage and war ethics. Natural law (God) is on the side of the moral fighter, not the one who protects the soldier behind solid wall while exposing civilians. WW2 with its bombing of civilian populations was the first to go seriously out of bounds, in our time, but it was common to execute prisoners who had surrendered. Now everyone does it. There is a book called Mahabharata I read, about an ancient war. Worth a look. At the start of the war they fought only in daylight. At sundown they would stop and return to their camp. Battle would resume in full formation at sunup. No guards needed to be posted. It would be shameful to attack at night. If a soldier 'fainted', he was allowed time to recover. Honor is to those who fight fair, shunning superior equipment in favour of superior skill and tactics. But over the 17 days of war standards fell. It heralded the dark ages, known as Kali Yuga. Soldiers are the standard bearers of society. They set the rules that all follow
Would love to hear your take on Gordon and Khartoum, telling the history from both sides, but also from the original inhabitants. A wider piece on Gordon himself would be great. I think original pictures (relevant and not repeats like so many other videos) are really valuable. Love you channel and your clear enthusiasm!
You seem to have made a mistake, the Emden was not a member of the Bremen-class, rather, she was the second member of the two-ship Dresden class. Other than that, I think this is a great video! It taught me some new things about my favourite warship ever! Very good job.
Unfortunately HMAS Sydney II suffered the fate of the Emden in the hands of HMAS Sydney I. But by the gunfire of another German surface raider ( although disguised) the Kormoran. Sydney is still in service with the RAN today. Great video HC!
@@TheHistoryChap I was thinking about this yesterday.... not only that, but HNAS Sydney II moved too close to the Kormoran and unlike its predecessor, did NOT stay outside the adversary's range. Sydney II could conceivably have pounded Komoran to scrap, as the Emden...history is certainly full of terrible 'what ifs"...
Oh! Thanks! Quite a new video, and first time on this channel, for me. The story of Emden was popping into my head all day, and I just looked it up for a winding down session. Good to see a nicely done, potted history of her and her crew's story. (Why she kept popping into my head today, incidentally, was because I was using Muller as an "example", of sorts, to keep both my patience and head at work... Ha! Ha!)
Makes me wonder what would've happened if the rest of the German Squadron had tagged along with Emden. If a light Cruiser could do all that damage, what could the rest of them have done?
A later HMAS Sydney (light cruiser laid down 1933) was sunk 19 November 1941 off the coast of West Australia, by the German auxiliary cruiser Kormoran. There were no survivors from HMAS Sydney. Kormoran was wrecked in the fight and sank. It's surviving crew were interned in Australia for the duration of the War.
@TheHistoryChap - A land based WWI goose chase you might want to cover is the German forces in East Africa that kept on the move, making raids and being just enough of a nuisance to keep significant allied forces out of the European theatre. I forget the commander's name. The old Ballantine Books paperback series covered it in a volume titled "Tanganyika Guerrilla." By chance about a year after I became friends with an old German fellow who had the same dog walking routine as myself, talk of history came up and of all the rare places to be stationed, his father was one of the German soldiers in that East Africa campaign.
Complete turrets from the HMAS Sydney and the SMS Emden are on display at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. HMAS Sydney's mast now sits on Bradley's Head overlooking Sydney harbor.
A little known fact. Two German sailors successively hid from the British on Cocos Island. Much to their dismay, no one ever came, and their remains were found there many years later along with their makeshift diary.
Thanks mate thays her a great and little know mission of bravery and skill ,apparently when she got there and was carrying out her orders to quote run a muck while submerged they powered into a fresh water stream and l don't know how that effects a sub but it slammed her into the ocean bottom .
@@markmccann5711 From what I remember reading she dived to avoid a turkish torpedo boat but exceded her safe diving depth. They quickly tried to correct the dive causing the stern to break the surface and was fired on and damaged near the engine so they abandoned ship
Another great story.(very nice shirt, BTW, maybe something about early submarine warfare? I recall reading Von Trapp’s book(yes, sound of music,) it was fascinating, could use the “research of fact.”ttfn!
Very good video on a fascinating story. I can highly recommend the book "The Last Gentleman Of War" by R.K. Lochner which tells the tale in fine fashion.
You just got a like from me History Chap. I am actually doing an assignment in college of making a map of the Emden from Penang until its capture with first hand sources only. Really tough to do without the use of secondary sources haha.
If anyone wants to read more details, then "The Last Cruise of the Emden" by Edwin P Hoyt (published by Andre Deutsch, 1967) is a good read. There is still a book to be written about all of HMAS Sydney's steaming throughout World War One. It fought a duel with a Zeppelin in the North Sea in 1917. My father was on board at that time. The prisoners from the Emden were eventually kept at a gaol in Berrima, New South Wales.
Thank you for the recommendation on further reading on SMS Emden! It is a true shame that a fighting ship like HMAS Sydney met her end in such a way. There is definitely a fine book to be written about the exploits of HMAS Sydney. ☺
@@wills2140 Thanks for reading. You might be meaning the SMS Emden meeting her end that way ? HMAS Sydney was paid off at Sydney on 8 May 1928, and on 10 January 1929 was delivered to Cockatoo Island for breaking up. Sydney’s stern and several other artifacts including guns from her main armament were donated to the Australian War Memorial and a number of other museums and naval bases around Australia. Much more here www.navy.gov.au/hmas-sydney-i and here - www.navy.gov.au/hmas-sydney-i-part-2 In the same way the German Navy has carried the name "Emden" forward, there have been five vessels named "HMAS Sydney" in the RAN. Details here en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMAS_Sydney#:~:text=Five%20ships%20of%20the%20Royal,city%20of%20New%20South%20Wales.
Fascinating story! Have you heard the tale of the great ocean liner battle between the German Liner / Armed Merchant Cap Trafalgar and the British Q ship / liner Carmania? I'd love to hear your take on that one. Thanks again for the great yarns!
@@TheHistoryChap - Great! I'll look forward to it as well as listening to your next great story. As a self-educated history buff, I really appreciate these more obscure stories (at least obscure from an American viewpoint) that seem almost synchronistic in their coincidences and ironies. I also appreciate the lessor known wars (once again, from my perspective) that influenced the 'great' conflicts such as the Crimean and Boer wars. Thank you for sharing your expertise and time!
As a young merchant navy apprentice deck officer in the mid sixties, when in Hamburg we always had the same elderly nightwatchman on the gangway by the name of Werner-Emden. He had been a young seaman on the SMS Emden and delighted in telling us the story the ship. My surname is the same as his old commanding officer and this was an added connection. He must have been in his mid seventies then and was a charming man who loathed war. Apparently the crew of the SMS Emden were permitted to append the name Emden to their surnames if they wished as a mark of respect for their part in the exploits of the german warship.
Thanks for sharing that great story.
An amazing story of chivalry, daring, and courage on both sides. This story could very easily be made into a Hollywood film as it has all the ingredients.
I agree with you. In fact, I think German TV did a mini-series on the Ayesha a few years ago (in German obviously).
The Seeadler would make an even more interesting movie.
👍 danke, sehr schön dargestellt!
Hurra!
For the historians. I know well the history of the Sydney Emden action as a former naval officer of 30 years service in the RAN and have a strange family connection here. My grandfather Ralph Kell of the 13th Battalion 1st AIF, was on one of the troop transports (HMT Minator I think) that HMAS Sydney was escorting to the Middle East in 1914 to later land at Gallipoli. He later went to France and was de-mobbed and repatriated to Australia in 1917.
The surviving officers of the Emden were sent to Australia and incarcerated at Berrima Jail near Bowral NSW where my grandmother, then Doris Crawford, lived. She and her friends would visit these men; they formed friendships with them and even participated in social activities such as boating regattas with them!!
I still have a beautifully carved box that was made by one of these gentlemen and a photo of him that came with it with the annotation 'A small token of my deepest regard and respect, 28 January 1919'. Clearly he had eyes for her!
After the war Doris met and married Ralph Kell. They produced three children including my mother and that is why I am here today to tell this tale.
Cheers from Australian/Kiwi cuz
Thank you for this. Thank you for tell our Story as it was. We both had great Soldiers. We never should fought each other. We are Brothers.
Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching.
Indeed
The best story on the Emden. Thank you. Jonsey
Thank you for your kind words of support.
I'd heard of the Emden, but never heard hers and her crews full, and fascinating, story. Thank you :)
it's my pleasure Kaitlynn.
Wow. You know, I’ve seen several documentaries about the Emden, but until today never heard a word about the odyssey of von Moltke and his party. What a neat find. Well done.
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.
Good evening! Thanks for a most informative video. The saga of the SMS Emden and the Ayesha has fascinated me since I was an adolescent. I believe that the ship, herself, was awarded the Iron Cross by the Kaiser and every successive ship to carry the name had a large EK-I mounted on the bow. (I can't speak to the Bundesmarine). Additionally the crewmembers (at least the officers) were entitled to add "Emden" to their surname, I.e. von Lauterbach-Emden. One of the Kaiser's nephews served aboard her and when he wrote his memoirs even though the title page lists him as Franz, Prinz von Hohenzollern, the publishers didn't miss a trick and the book's spine reflects "von Hohenzollern / Emden". 👍😎
P.S.: An interesting video might be the fate of HMAS Sidney II, who sank; an was in turn sunk by, a German raider, the Cormorant, in the Pacific. There is some mystery there as a book I read said that one of the Sidney's lifeboats now on display appears to be holed by bullets of a caliber compatible with the armament of a Japanese submarine. 🤔
Kenneth, thanks for taking the time to write that lengthy and interesting comment. Your last piece is very interesting...mmm maybe another video!
Just to clarify the spelling is HMAS Sydney
Any video on the second HMAS Sydney would definitely be worth seeing!
☺
That theory of a Japanese submarine being in the area has now been discounted. IJN records (available after the war) didn't show any sub being there. Anyway, the Pearl Harbour attack was just one month away and IJN officers would have been under orders not to do anything that would alert the Allies that something was up. The Japanese told no one in advance about Pearl Harbour, not even their German allies. Goebbels dismissed the news as "just another trick of the enemy" when first told of it.
As an added side note . After the war the crew of the emdem were allowed to add or change their last name to emdem . A great story well told thank you for keeping alive these dying tales.
Ross, thanks for adding that fact.
Actually, they were allowed to add Emden to their last name, e.g. Meyer-Emden.
Absolutely wonderful, really love the story of Von Muller, he sounds like a real gentleman sailor who cared for his men and opponents alike. I remember reading a lovely article in an old newspaper regarding the Emden and Von Muller, much like the manner in which British papers recounted the sinking of the Scharnhorst in WW2, they wrote something along the lines of 'its almost a shame we had to sink her but she had to go'. They went on to write very affectionately about Von Muller and his chivalry as well as the ships exploits in a way that almost sounded like they were on their side. Frustratingly, I can't find a link to the actual newspaper report, I will keep looking! If anyone knows the document I am referring, I would love to read it again.
Super video and love the channel! Thank you
Tahnks for taking the time to write such a lengthy comment. It would be great if someone does has that newspaper to share.
@@TheHistoryChapdr❤
You’ve got to admire the balls of that captain.
Incredible man.
Fascinating story. I had heard of the Emden's exploits, but didn't know them in any great detail, so it was a treat to be educated as to what they achieved. I was also absolutely riveted by the story of Von Moltke's party and their odyssey, that in itself is a tale for the ages. A very enjoyable video, thankyou for your efforts.
Thank you for your kind words.
I am familiar with this ship Emden. Years ago I came across a colourful hard-bound copy of Warships and it was there I found this story very brief. What you say now keeps me engaged and immersed. Great!
The
Thanks for commenting.
Thanks Chris for that little unknown story 👍😃
Glad you enjoyed it.
Being a bit of a naval buff Chis I had never heard of this particular and fascinating story before . Would make a good film . 🇬🇧
Glad you enjoyed it. I actually think the Germans made a film about the men who escaped home.
Great video and really interesting thank you. That German captain was definitely a brave one!
Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment too.
Great story and great respect for the captain of the Emden
Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment.
What about a Program on'' Operation Unthinkable '' ? with due regard to Kim Philby's part in relaying the full details to Stalin , Who was reading the messages before Truman ! This was happening before the War in Europe ended and to my way of thinking was resposable for Stalins paranoia , Maybe the direct Cause of the Cold war ,And totally down to Churchill...........I enjoyed your program on the Emden , I remember in the 1970s reading '' The Last Corsair '' a great read .
Many thanks for that. Interesting suggestion I will add it to my ever-growing list for potential future productions.
I said last time that Chris stands on equal footing with Drachinfel, though their approaches to naval history are from different angles. That said, while there is certainly room on UA-cam for the more data-driven side of history as presented by Drachinfel, what truly grips the interest of most students of history, as far as I have ever found, are the personal accounts of those involved in the stories. The story of a battle will never be as interesting as the stories of the man who fought in it. Chris presents those stories with a nuance I have yet to find on another channel.
Jesse, thanks for your kind words.
Yes, it would be good to tell stories about people (especially the ordinary people) in these historical events. The trouble is that those accounts are not always easily available. Onwards and upwards.
amazing story would make a great drama series
Yes, it would
Thank you for this fair and fascinating account of the Emden and her crew.
Very kind of you.
Thanks Chris, that was very interesting. The Emden and their captain did a great job although there could only be one fatal outcome. As a Royal Navy veteran I enjoy hearing about naval engagements from any era.
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching.
Another great adventure was von Lettow-Vorbeck in Africa. When I served as an apprentice in Duesseldorf, Germany the night watch man at the store had served with him in Africa.
I have him on my hit list. Not just a great military commander but also the last Germ,an commander to surrender at the end of WW1.
Wow, what an intriguing and interesting story, I love the idea of a rogue ship wrecking havoc during the war. He showed the chivalry which soon disappeared from history as you stated. I loved the story of shore party who were left behind still in the fight, as the old saying goes as long as I have blood or breath I will be in the fight. They traveled pretty far to make it back to the war, kudos to you, amigo.
I will be telling another story about a rogue ship very soon. The wolf was a German ship during the First World War. Watch this space!
Excellent chronicle of an epic sail. Thanks mate!.
More to come. My challenge is that there are so many stories out there.
Thank you, this was fascinating. Another aspect of history I wasn't aware of
Glad you enjoyed it.
Any era is good with me. You can tell a story very well.
Thank you, James.
Magnífico trabajo. Gracias y enhorabuena desde España
Thanks for watching my video; Glad you enjoyed it.
Loved it. Thanks
My pleasure. Thanks for watching.
Well told. A fine story.
Thanks for watching.
Another great enthusiastic presentation.........
Thank you.
The capture of Togoland and the Camaroons.
This never gets more than one sentence in any book I've read.
Peter, I was thinking about doing Togoland. I seem to recall the first shot fired by a British soldier in WW1 occurred there (well, he was actually an African soldier but serving Britain).
@@TheHistoryChap I will look forward to that.
Thank you for the wonderful story telling. A remarkable piece of history. A world war "broke out" quite unexpected for civilized people and even unknown to civilized people. It gives us a lot to think about todays situation.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great. Thank you.
My pleasure. Thanks for watching.
😅Chris, HMAS Sydney's ( the number 1 SYDNEY in your story and painting), tripod mast head still survives in Sydney Australia. Much of her decking timber was turned into furniture and was distributed to naval bases. When I volunteered at the Australian War Memorial my document holding was from this Sydney's decking timber. Regards Gerard
Many thanks for sharing
Thanks so very much
My pleasure.
My friend in Sri Lanka had The Emden's brass bell. He had been a proud member of The Royal Navy.
Thank you for taking the time to share.
I absolutely love your videos sir, thank you for everything you do. I enjoy listening to your videos as I read, workout etc.
I am so glad that you are enjoying them. Thank you for your support.
An EXCELLENT choice of topic, Chris… edited & related with your customary flare & enthusiasm. 😊👍
I have loved the story of the Emden, ever since I read a book expressly devoted to her, when I was still at school… Not only is it a story of great adventure, exceptional seamanship & daring - not unlike the most exciting tales involving the famous Pirates of “The Golden Age of Sail” - but UNLIKE those tales, the Captain of the Emden exemplified the highest standards associated with a rapidly dwindling code of Chivalry & Honour, which - wherever possible - he extended to the Crew & Passengers of the many ships that he intercepted…..
Chris did his usual magnificent job of relating the salient details of the Emden’s extraordinary voyage - also managing to condense the narrative into the easily watchable “bite sized chunk” that makes so many of his videos a fascinating & diverting watch that doesn’t necessitate a significant investment in time, for anyone burdened with a busy schedule. But, for anyone who found this story as fascinating as its subject matter deserves, I thoroughly recommend that they investigate it further & seek out a worthy book on the subject, as it’s a truly thrilling tale that truly deserves to be explored to the full…..
Wow, thanks for your support. I really appreciate it.
@@TheHistoryChap “Credit where credit’s due.” 🤝 You’re very welcome, Chris. Your Channel is a tremendous source of fascinating & riveting information, on a wealth of diverse Historical episodes that really do deserve to be told & shared with the style, passion, infectious enthusiasm & even handed narrative that is your admirable trademark. One only has to peruse the hugely positive feedback left in your Comments Section, to recognise that this is not just my opinion, but one that is rightly shared by all of your Subscribers… 🏆🥇
You really do deserve a MUCH larger audience - & with the unfailing consistency & frankly **extraordinary** frequency of your uploads (I honestly don’t know how you manage to research, prepare, film & edit so much excellent material in so little time! 🤷🏻♂️) I have NO DOUBT that your Channel will steadily grow, exponentially, to the size that it richly deserves. Keep it up, Chris & All the Best ~ LOUIS C.
I don't know what it is, but I love the look of the light cruisers of WW1 and pre-WW1.
Even the ones on fire! :)
This was a completely new story for me. Thank you for the unexpected education.
My pleasure.
Really appreciated this story. My brother Tom and I as boys in the 1950s would visit the Emdem's gun in Hyde Park Sydney. You gave a lot of extra detail. ThanksTed
My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed it.
Another entertaining and informative presentation.
I'd love to see a series of videos regarding the Eastern Front in WW1, namely, The Galipoli campaigns.
Galipoli is in my plans. Just need to get through some other stories first.
A terrifically researched, illustrated and narrated video. Thank you, great work as always.
Mark, thnk you for your kind comment. I'm glad that you enjoyed.
Thank Sir for reminding us of a semi forgotten episode of the First World War. Its simply brilliant!
Glad you enjoyed. I came across the story about the Ayesha and thought it had to be told.
A story of an old fashioned German gentleman and his valiant crew, and of course the achievement of the Australian navy, Australia always reaching the highest of standards in their military in all its services. Good show.
Thank you for watching
The landingsparty return is an epic journey novel all on its own even if there wasn't a war going on.
Absolutely. I was aware of the Emden and her end but the landing party story was a new one on me until I started my research.
There was a 2-part documentary called Hunt the Kaisers Cruisers made by the ABC (Australian) which details this fascinating story including the German party which managed to escape through the Red Sea and the Ottoman Empire and eventually back to Germany. It is a great watch for those interested if you can find it.
Thank you for sharing. I think German TV also did a mini series (in German of course).
Both films are worth viewing, if you can find them.
☺
This video was well timed, here I am painting a 1/3000 scale model of SMS Dresden, Emdens sister ship.
I aim to please! Thanks for watching and I hope the painting goes well.
Excellent video Chris, as always. It's quite comical to think that the British authorities on the Chagos Islands still had no idea that the war had begun. Looking forward to your next great presentation, thanks!
Unfortunately, I seem to have a knack of finding the comedy (or absurd) in a lot of historical events!
@@TheHistoryChap It's a talent you should continue with.
...BACK THEN, COMMUNICATION WAS CRUDE BY TODAY'S STANDARDS- AND WW1 HADN'T BEEN GOING ON FOR VERY LONG YET-!!
Wow , whot an epic story of the White Swan . Thank you , enjoyed this time in history .... cheers Simon from York
My pleasure. I'm glad that you enjoyed it.
Sterling work as always! I really enjoyed that. Thank you so much.
Take care!
Many thanks.
Amazing story very well done.
Thank you for watching.
@@TheHistoryChap Can you make a video about the Dutch ship which disguised itself as an island to escape the Japanese? It is called the Abraham Crijnssen, which was a minesweeper. It is now a museum ship in Den Helder.
My late bro in law Frank heheman, had a grandfather who served on the Emden. I wish he could have seen this vid.
Gosh, I bet he had some stories to tell
Very informative and superbly presented. Thank you.
My pleasure. Thanks for warching.
I must say, the Emden accomplished quite a bit in her short war service. Being feared by many and hunted by ships from multiple navies goes to show, from a certain point of view, just how remarkable of a ship she was. It was even more remarkable that she was sunk by a ship from a navy that had only recently been established. RESPECT FOR AUSTRALIA! It was also quite the accomplishment the journey the raiding party took to get to friendly territory. It was such a pity Captain Von Muller died of disease at a young age. It was an even greater pity Von Mocher became a Nazi after the war, but saw the errors of his ways, and paid the price for doing the right thing afterward. It was outstanding he became a pacifist and advocate for peace after the war and died as one. Those who knew and had been close to him should be proud!
Nathan, it is a great story and also shows how humans travel a journey in life too.
We know so little of WW1, as compared to WW2.
We all know of famous WW2 battles, legendary commanders etc etc etc.
But in total contrast WW1 has not been a saleable commodity for Hollywood.
And , perhaps, also for the print media.
Your video is an eye opener to many, on the exploits of this ship.
I first read about the Emden as a 7th grade student at Mayo College Ajmer, India, back in 1972.
Maybe I need to do more about WW1
C.S. Forrester's 'Brown on Resolution' is loosely based on a ship like the Emden. One of my favourite military novels
Interesting. Thanks for sharing.
A riveting story.
A new German Braunschweig class corvette bears the name EMDEN. See here en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Braunschweig-class_corvette
Excellent, thanks
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks.
Thankyou very much for this.
I thoroughly recommend a series of Books by Mike Carlton. One of which ( First Victory) pertains to this very pair of Cruisers.
The other books being "Flagship" and of course "Cruiser" which is the story of the Hmas Perth and Uss Houston and their epic last stand against overwhelming odds.
Thank you for sharing.
Love your narratives. You should do some on the great British explores.
Fascinating history! Keep the stories coming!
Joe, I'm glad that you are enjoying.
Proud to be German and Proud Grandson of a U Boat Veteran. Of U 775. A never Defeated Boat
Thanks for sharing.
Hey Chris, something you may find interesting is apparently the very first shots fired in WW1 actually happened in Australia. War had been declared by Britain, and Australia then followed suit. There was a German merchant ship in Melbourne harbour that also got the news, and tried to sail from a now enemy country. The shore batteries fired across her bow which stopped it and the ship was captured. Meanwhile in Europe the opposing armies hadn't yet met in battle.
Warren, Thanks for sharing.
@@TheHistoryChap was the merchant vessel SS Pfalz and was fired upon by the coastal guns at Fort Nepean at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay in Melbourne. Was within minutes of the shore guns receiving the news that war was declared.
Excellent video, never heard of this story. Thanks
My pleasure. Thank you for watching.
Ironically, during WW2, the second ship named HMAS Sydney was sunk by a German raider, the Kormoran, off the Western Australian coast with the loss of the entire crew of 645, none survived. The Kormoran was also mortally damaged during the action.
Hi Barry, thanks for sharing. Ironic indeed!
Thank you for this excellent story
No, thank you for watching. I appreciate your support.
Stunning videos Sir. Keep them comming!!
Thanks for watching, glad you enjoy my videos.
Another great piece from yourself. On a nautical theme my father in law was on MGBs during WW2. He was one of the crew of 316 boat of a flotilla used in ferrying both undercover operatives, have to assume that some were SOE, and taking off downed airmen. I used to have a lot of info. regarding her, the boat but I gave it all to my nephew! If you are interested I can do some more digging. I think the small boats do not get credit for their part in the war.
Thanks for sharing.
The Emden crew who sneaked out of Cocos Island were thinking about going to Mecca to ride on the Hejaz Railway to Constantinople then to Berlin. Unknown to them the railway was incomplete at the time and they had to sneak out of Mecca and hiked / fought a long way to the spot when the railway ended, before managing to commandeer a succession of trains to take them back home.
The best laid plans...
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
@@TheHistoryChap My respect as a history buff.
The SMS Emden set the standard for Modern Sea raiders. The Atlantis would be a good one to cover on this channel
Thanks for watching my video
Great sea chase story.
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.
That was an interesting story that I really enjoyed.
I never knew of the existence of tiny German navy as well as small colony's of her in Asia during beginning of first world war
Glad you enjoyed.
How about the surface raider SMS Seeadler?
One of the Emden's guns is in Hyde Park (the one pictured, the anti gun nutters wanted it removed), another at HMAS Penguin (Middle Head). There are relics at the Sydney Maritime Museum. There are also relics at a museum on Home Island, Cocos, where I visited.
Glossop's actions weren't well received by his superiors as most of the Emden's casualties occured after she had run aground and was offering no resistance.....viewed as a bit of a war crime. Glossop was never given command of another ship.
Thanks for sharing.
Excellent
Thank you. Merry christmas
Great story! 🎶
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it.
@@TheHistoryChap
Its a recurring theme actually. The sensational warrior who also has boundarys around what it's OK to do in wartime. Treatment of the enemies with respect equal to friends. Battle only between combatants, leaving non combatants out of it.
Even his enemies regarding his ensign still flying as a sign he was still in the fight.
Large and powerful countries could learn from his courage and war ethics.
Natural law (God) is on the side of the moral fighter, not the one who protects the soldier behind solid wall while exposing civilians.
WW2 with its bombing of civilian populations was the first to go seriously out of bounds, in our time, but it was common to execute prisoners who had surrendered.
Now everyone does it.
There is a book called Mahabharata I read, about an ancient war. Worth a look.
At the start of the war they fought only in daylight. At sundown they would stop and return to their camp. Battle would resume in full formation at sunup. No guards needed to be posted. It would be shameful to attack at night.
If a soldier 'fainted', he was allowed time to recover.
Honor is to those who fight fair, shunning superior equipment in favour of superior skill and tactics.
But over the 17 days of war standards fell. It heralded the dark ages, known as Kali Yuga.
Soldiers are the standard bearers of society. They set the rules that all follow
Would love to hear your take on Gordon and Khartoum, telling the history from both sides, but also from the original inhabitants. A wider piece on Gordon himself would be great. I think original pictures (relevant and not repeats like so many other videos) are really valuable. Love you channel and your clear enthusiasm!
Steve, thanks for the suggestion. I have done videos about Gordon and Khartoum. Have a look on my channel to see them.
Great video. Thanks very much, I hadn't heard about the adventures of the landing party.
Glad you enjoyed it.
Excellent, really enjoyed the presentation, keep bringing them out. Cheers
Thank you for watching and for your support.
You seem to have made a mistake, the Emden was not a member of the Bremen-class, rather, she was the second member of the two-ship Dresden class.
Other than that, I think this is a great video! It taught me some new things about my favourite warship ever! Very good job.
Glad you enjoyed.
Unfortunately HMAS Sydney II suffered the fate of the Emden in the hands of HMAS Sydney I. But by the gunfire of another German surface raider ( although disguised) the Kormoran. Sydney is still in service with the RAN today. Great video HC!
Many thanks. Yes, ironic that HMAS Sydney II suffered that fate.
@@TheHistoryChap I was thinking about this yesterday.... not only that, but HNAS Sydney II moved too close to the Kormoran and unlike its predecessor, did NOT stay outside the adversary's range. Sydney II could conceivably have pounded Komoran to scrap, as the Emden...history is certainly full of terrible 'what ifs"...
Oh! Thanks! Quite a new video, and first time on this channel, for me. The story of Emden was popping into my head all day, and I just looked it up for a winding down session. Good to see a nicely done, potted history of her and her crew's story.
(Why she kept popping into my head today, incidentally, was because I was using Muller as an "example", of sorts, to keep both my patience and head at work... Ha! Ha!)
Thanks for watching. I hope that you will become a regular on my channel. Wishing you a great weekend.
Makes me wonder what would've happened if the rest of the German Squadron had tagged along with Emden. If a light Cruiser could do all that damage, what could the rest of them have done?
Interesting suggestion
Loved this story more like this please
Thank you for your support. Lots more coming your way.
A later HMAS Sydney (light cruiser laid down 1933) was sunk 19 November 1941 off the coast of West Australia, by the German auxiliary cruiser Kormoran. There were no survivors from HMAS Sydney. Kormoran was wrecked in the fight and sank. It's surviving crew were interned in Australia for the duration of the War.
Thank you for sharing.
Very interesting as usual Chris!!
Thanks for sharing
Glad you liked it. A bit different to my usual stuff but enjoyed researching and telling the story.
@TheHistoryChap - A land based WWI goose chase you might want to cover is the German forces in East Africa that kept on the move, making raids and being just enough of a nuisance to keep significant allied forces out of the European theatre. I forget the commander's name. The old Ballantine Books paperback series covered it in a volume titled "Tanganyika Guerrilla."
By chance about a year after I became friends with an old German fellow who had the same dog walking routine as myself, talk of history came up and of all the rare places to be stationed, his father was one of the German soldiers in that East Africa campaign.
Wow, I like your story. Thanks for suggesting and it is now on my list.
Great video,had no idea this had ever taken place !!
Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching.
Complete turrets from the HMAS Sydney and the SMS Emden are on display at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. HMAS Sydney's mast now sits on Bradley's Head overlooking Sydney harbor.
Thanks for sharing.
A little known fact. Two German sailors successively hid from the British on Cocos Island. Much to their dismay, no one ever came, and their remains were found there many years later along with their makeshift diary.
That is a little known fact! Thanks for sharing.
Great video as always have you looked at the battle of imphal in Burma what a feat of bravery 👍
Mick, Imphal is on my hit list. Please do subscribe (and hit the bell icon when you do) so you don't miss it.
Great video mate ,there was an Aussie sub in WW1 with sailed from Australia to the front in Turkey thats also a great adventure.
Oooh, that sounds like a great story. I will research it.
HMAS AE2 The first submarine to make it up the Dardanelles and news of their success inspired the men at Gallipoli to dig in and fight
Thanks mate thays her a great and little know mission of bravery and skill ,apparently when she got there and was carrying out her orders to quote run a muck while submerged they powered into a fresh water stream and l don't know how that effects a sub but it slammed her into the ocean bottom .
@@markmccann5711 From what I remember reading she dived to avoid a turkish torpedo boat but exceded her safe diving depth. They quickly tried to correct the dive causing the stern to break the surface and was fired on and damaged near the engine so they abandoned ship
Wow that's much better info than l found makes more sence to me ,thanks mate much appreciated.
Another great story.(very nice shirt, BTW, maybe something about early submarine warfare? I recall reading Von Trapp’s book(yes, sound of music,) it was fascinating, could use the “research of fact.”ttfn!
That's an interesting idea. Thanks for sharing with me.
Very good video on a fascinating story. I can highly recommend the book "The Last Gentleman Of War" by R.K. Lochner which tells the tale in fine fashion.
Thank you for sharing.
Some of Emden's crew were also hold as POW in Singapore, when the mutiny of the 5th Light Infantry brokes out.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
You just got a like from me History Chap. I am actually doing an assignment in college of making a map of the Emden from Penang until its capture with first hand sources only. Really tough to do without the use of secondary sources haha.
Thanks for your support. Appreciated.
If anyone wants to read more details, then "The Last Cruise of the Emden" by Edwin P Hoyt (published by Andre Deutsch, 1967) is a good read.
There is still a book to be written about all of HMAS Sydney's steaming throughout World War One. It fought a duel with a Zeppelin in the North Sea in 1917. My father was on board at that time. The prisoners from the Emden were eventually kept at a gaol in Berrima, New South Wales.
Thank you for the recommendation on further reading on SMS Emden!
It is a true shame that a fighting ship like HMAS Sydney met her end in such a way. There is definitely a fine book to be written about the exploits of HMAS Sydney.
☺
@@wills2140 Thanks for reading. You might be meaning the SMS Emden meeting her end that way ? HMAS Sydney was paid off at Sydney on 8 May 1928, and on 10 January 1929 was delivered to Cockatoo Island for breaking up. Sydney’s stern and several other artifacts including guns from her main armament were donated to the Australian War Memorial and a number of other museums and naval bases around Australia.
Much more here www.navy.gov.au/hmas-sydney-i and here - www.navy.gov.au/hmas-sydney-i-part-2
In the same way the German Navy has carried the name "Emden" forward, there have been five vessels named "HMAS Sydney" in the RAN. Details here en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMAS_Sydney#:~:text=Five%20ships%20of%20the%20Royal,city%20of%20New%20South%20Wales.
Thank you for taking the time to share.
AMAZING STORY FROM BAK-IN-THE-DAY CHAPPY
Glad you enjoyed it.
Fascinating story! Have you heard the tale of the great ocean liner battle between the German Liner / Armed Merchant Cap Trafalgar and the British Q ship / liner Carmania? I'd love to hear your take on that one.
Thanks again for the great yarns!
Thanks for the idea. I will add to my list.
@@TheHistoryChap - Great! I'll look forward to it as well as listening to your next great story. As a self-educated history buff, I really appreciate these more obscure stories (at least obscure from an American viewpoint) that seem almost synchronistic in their coincidences and ironies. I also appreciate the lessor known wars (once again, from my perspective) that influenced the 'great' conflicts such as the Crimean and Boer wars. Thank you for sharing your expertise and time!