It’s the saga of the ark which was built on top of one of Wearside’s hills, and was shared with us by Sunderland Antiquarian Society.
Back in 1840, four students had a brainwave. To build an ark in the town, but not on the riverside.
They built it on top of a hill and then launched it while thousands watched.
Read our full story on the Sunderland Echo website to find out what happened.
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5. Roads had to be closed
When the day came to move it, roads were closed and thousands of people turned out to watch. Here is Palmers Hill Quay in a 1971 Sunderland Echo photo. | se
6. A daredevil experience
One of the daredevils tied himself to the boat and then cut the ropes which were holding it in place. Another view of Palmers Hill Quay. | se
7. An incredible sight
The monster vessel raced down the hill and into the river with no-one getting hurt, and the great crowds cheering. | Google Maps
8. Four hills in Monkwearmouth
There were four hills in Monkwearmouth which were 'all ballast hills' caused by the ships which had to get rid of their ballast as they came in to Sunderland. The Look Out Inn, pictured, was built on one of them. Photo: Ron Lawson. | Ron Lawson Photo: Ron Lawson