The Brussels entered service with the Great Eastern Railway Company on the Company's route between Harwich (Parkeston Quay) and Antwerp.

Built by Gourlay Brothers & Company in Dundee, she was launched on 2nd September 1901. With a length of 285ft. , a beam of 34ft., and a draft of 15ft, she weighed 1,380 tons and could cruise at 16 knots powered by two triple-expansion steam engines generating a total output of 3,500hp. The career of this vessel will be illustrated as part of the exhibition.