On 9th of July 1917 HMS Vanguard exploded in Scapa Flow (the result of an internal explosion of faulty cordite), killing 804 men.
HMS Vanguard #OnThisDay
“I realised it would be a Herculean task to climb those huge cliffs, my body numbed and drained of energy. “
“I realised it would be a Herculean task to climb those huge cliffs, my body numbed and drained of energy. ” 228580 Leading Seaman William Cashman,
#Lusitania On This Day
On the 7th of May 1915 the Lusitania was sunk on her 202nd trans-Atlantic crossing, by a German U-boat 11 miles (18 km) off the southern coast of Ireland, killing 1,198 passengers and crew.
Easter Monday
“In the last letter that I had from France
You thanked me for the silver Easter egg”
Scapa Flow Museum, Lyness, Hoy
The Scapa Flow Museum is impressive and is a must see for visitors to Orkney and islanders.
HMS Pheasant On This Day
On the 1st of March 1917, HMS Pheasant struck a mine just off Rora Head, Hoy, Orkney.
Christmas Past: Christmas Day 1914
“Christmas Day in Stromness was observed as a public holiday, all places of business being closed. The public bars were not open at any time of the day, as they used to be.”
Christmas Past: Cards
During World War 1 troops were sent beautiful embroidered cards by family and loved ones back home.
Christmas Past: The Post Office, Parcels
In 1914 the Kirkwall Post Office reported that a large number of parcels were posted on 21st (Monday) and 22nd (Tuesday) of December.
Peace Ship #OnThisDay
On 4th of December 1915 The Peace Ship, Ocean liner Oscar II, set sail from the USA to Europe.
