John Horn

In 1849 Malcomson's shipyard recruited John Horn, an outstanding shipbuilder from the Clyde, to manage Neptune. Horn was a master shipbuilder, trained in England and head hunted by Joseph Malcomson. Horn had been trained by Robert Napier, one of the greatest marine engineer and shipbuilders of the era. Horn became foreman of Napier's marine engine works in the Clyde when he was only 18.

Horn understood and practised Brunel's construction techniques while adding his own innovations. He initiated a very ambitious and aggressive programme of shipbuilding making a mark at home and abroad. His leadership was extraordinary; the ships which were the largest being built in Ireland at the time were renowned for the strength of their hulls, one the SS Avoca was the first steamship to force the ice at Odessa.

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