HMS Vivid (shore establishment 1890)

HMS Vivid was a shore establishment of the Royal Navy, initially based at Devonport. It served primarily as a depot ship and administrative center for the Devonport naval base, acting as the parent establishment for various seagoing vessels and smaller shore-based units.

Commissioned as a tender to HMS Indus, a training ship, Vivid became an independent command in 1890. Its roles included accounting and pay administration for naval personnel assigned to ships in the Reserve Fleet and smaller vessels operating from Devonport. It also served as a training facility for reservists and new entries to the Royal Navy.

The name Vivid was reassigned to subsequent establishments over time, representing the administrative function rather than a specific physical location. The original location remained a key component of the Devonport naval base, and the name Vivid continued to be associated with recruitment and training activities within the base. The establishment played a significant role in supporting naval operations and personnel management throughout the 20th century, particularly during both World Wars. The name reflects a continuous link to the administrative and support functions provided at Devonport.