Workshops to uncover the mysteries of the Laurentic

By Richard O'Reilly

On Thursday April 6th history lovers will have the opportunity to get a closer view of  artefacts recovered from the tragic SS Laurentic liner. 

The ocean liner sank off the coast of Ireland after striking two mines during the First World War.  354 died in the tragedy.

Laurentic was carrying about 43 tons of gold ingots at the time of her loss, 22 bars of gold are yet to be recovered.

The ‘Laurentic Objects in Focus’ workshop at Tower Museum, will give participants the chance to view a range of items recovered from the wreck site, some of which will be unveiled to the public for the first time.

^{Postcard from John Madden, a sailor on board the Laurentic}

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane, Alderman Hilary McClintock, said the workshops offered a unique experience for anyone who is interested in maritime history.

“In recent months following the Centenary of the sinking of the Laurentic we have become more aware of this significant chapter in our local story. There is currently a treasure trove of artefacts on display at the museum, and this is an exciting chance for anyone who wants to explore the story further to learn more about the archive.

“It’s fantastic that so many local people have contributed objects to the exhibition, which will reveal more about those who served on board on that fateful day, as well as the beautiful vessel itself.”

The event is part of the wider programme of activities surrounding the Laurentic exhibition, which is now in its third month at the museum and running until the end of June.

Education Officer with the Tower Museum, Ronan McConnell, said that participants will also have the opportunity to hear some of the unique stories behind the objects and their recovery.

“We are delighted to be unveiling a whole series of new objects not seen before which have been loaned to us recently, including some mystery objects which we are still trying to identify,” he revealed.

^{One of the many artefacts on display}

“We are very excited about sharing these objects with the public in the hope that they can help us to identify them. The generosity of local divers and history enthusiasts - including relatives of those who sailed on the Laurentic - has been absolutely fantastic and we are looking forward to revealing more about the artefacts during the workshop.

“The strengths of this exhibition lie in two major elements - the story and the artefacts. The sinking of the Laurentic off Lough Swilly, its connection with this city and the search for the gold which still lies at the bottom of the lough, has great resonance among local people and indeed visitors to the city. The exhibition has proven extremely popular since it opened. Some of the artefacts loaned to the museum for the exhibition have incredible stories and this is a great opportunity to relate these stories to participants during the workshop.”