A dramatic photograph of survivors of one of the worst disasters in Irish maritime history will be re-enacted in Derry later today.
More than 350 lives were lost when White Star liner, the SS Laurentic sank off the coast of Donegal after striking two German mines on January 25, 1917.
The 121 survivors of the tragedy were brought to Derry where they were given a civic reception at the city’s Guildhall. A photograph taken at the time shows the survivors enjoying a meal after each was presented with a “ten-shilling treasury note” and a packet of cigarettes.
Later today, the 100-year-old photograph will be re-enacted at the Guildhall as part of a series of events commemorating the centenary of the sinking of the vessel.
The ship was sunk shortly after leaving Lough Swilly on its journey to Halifax, Nova Scotia. It was carrying 479 passengers as well as a cargo of gold ingots to pay for war munitions.
As the Laurentic rounded Fanad, the ship struck two mines laid by German submarine U-80 and sank within an hour. Most of those who died perished from exposure with many buried at St Mura’s graveyard in Fahan, County Donegal.
Dives on the wreck between 1917 and 1924, which is now owned by retired Derry diver Ray Cossum, recovered most of the £350 million worth of gold ingots. However, 25 ingots were never found.
Many of the artefacts – including the ship’s bell – raised from the Laurentic form a centenary exhibition launched at Derry’s Tower Museum. The exhibition will continue until June this year.
Derry mayor, Hilary McClintock has called on members of the public to attend today’s picture e-enactment at midday.
