Ship Shape and Bristol Fashion

[FLYING_TRUCKER]

I take it that term referred to the sailing ships that were built and made ready for sea.

Was Bristol England the leader in shipbuilding and design at one time?

Was there a ship builder named Bristol and would it possibly be affiliated with the aircraft manufacturer?

Looking for a little history on this.

Cheers.....Happy Landings.......Doug

[Woodlouse2002]

Glasgow was more of a ship building area.

Bristol and the Bristol channel had a huge amount of shipping going in and though. Especially in the early part of last centuary.

So I think the phrase Ship Shape and Bristol Fashion comes from the fact that Bristol was one of the busiest shipping ports in the world when sayings like this were made.

[C]

Not being particularly knowledgable on the subject, but I think Mr Brunel may have something to do with this...

Charlie

[Hagar]

I've always understood that this is the correct origin of the term. Woody got it about right.
http://phrases.shu.ac.uk/meanings/317600.html

Meaning  
   Ready to go.  

 Origin
   From the reputation the port of Bristol had for preparing ships for sail in good order.  

[FLYING_TRUCKER]

Thanks every-one.


Cheers......Happy Landings......Doug