RMS Empress of Ireland

RMS Empress of Ireland was an ocean liner which was built in Scotland and operated by the Canadian Pacific Steamship Company. She was launched in 1906 and was one of the most luxurious liners of her time. The ship is best known for her tragic sinking in 1914, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 passengers and crew, making it one of the deadliest maritime disasters in history.

Construction and Design

The RMS Empress of Ireland was built by Fairfield Shipbuilding and Engineering Company in Glasgow, Scotland. She was 570 feet long, 65 feet wide, and had a gross tonnage of 14,191. The ship was powered by two quadruple expansion engines and could reach a top speed of 20 knots. The interior of the ship was lavishly decorated and included amenities such as a dining saloon, a smoking room, a music room, and a library.

Service History

The RMS Empress of Ireland began her maiden voyage on 29 June 1906, sailing from Liverpool to Quebec City. She was primarily used for transatlantic crossings between Britain and Canada, carrying both passengers and cargo. The ship was known for her speed and comfort, and was a popular choice among travelers.

Sinking

On 29 May 1914, the RMS Empress of Ireland collided with the Norwegian collier SS Storstad in the Saint Lawrence River. The ship sank in just 14 minutes, resulting in the deaths of 1,012 people. The disaster was widely reported in the media and led to significant changes in maritime safety regulations.

Legacy

The sinking of the RMS Empress of Ireland is considered one of the worst maritime disasters in history. The shipwreck site is now a National Historic Site of Canada and is popular with divers. The tragedy is also commemorated in various museums and memorials, including the Empress of Ireland Museum in Rimouski, Quebec.