Trafalgar Engraving Donated to the VSC

The Victory Services Club is delighted to receive a generous donation from VSC member, Rowan Crowley, who has gifted the Club with a distinguished engraving of the Battle of Trafalgar. The piece, produced by William Miller, after Clarkson Frederick Stanfield’s 1836 painting (which once hung in the United Services Club on Pall Mall), carries a meaningful personal history.

The engraving was originally purchased in 1980 as a present for Rowan’s father, Lieutenant Commander John Terence Crowley, who served in the Royal Navy and remained closely connected to naval life long after his retirement. For nearly forty years, the artwork hung in the family home in Hillgate Village, where it was a much‑loved reminder of his service and the friendships forged during his time at sea. Following his father’s passing, Rowan inherited the engraving, but had yet to find the right place for it.

Earlier this year, while celebrating his wife’s birthday in the Trafalgar Room at the VSC, he felt the Club would be an ideal home for the piece – and subsequently, generously offered the engraving to the VSC, so that it could be enjoyed by members for years to come, particularly those with naval backgrounds or an interest in maritime history.

Rowan and his wife have been long‑standing members and regular visitors to the Club.

The VSC extends its sincere thanks to Rowan for this thoughtful and meaningful contribution. A suitable location within the Club will be found for the engraving, where it will become part of the collection that celebrates the heritage and traditions of the Armed Forces community.