MVS honours the memory of HMS Birkenhead
A new memorial to one the worst 19th century maritime disasters has been unveiled on Merseyside 162 years after the tragedy.
The sinking of the troopship HMS Birkenhead entered British legend with the first recorded order of “women and children first” to the lifeboats, after the paddle steamer hit an uncharted rock off the South African coast.
Out of 638 people onboard, only 193 survived from the accident near Gansbaai on February 26, 1852.
Members of the Liverpool City and Mersey units of the MVS formed part of the Guard of Honour at the Service of Dedication for the memorial on the Woodside Landing Stage at Birkenhead.
HoU Mersey Bob Hunt said “This was a very moving ceremony and I was pleased to be asked if the MVS would attend”
Photo (top): The Liverpool and Mersey contingent with the AVO (N)
Photos (bottom): The Memorial and the dedication plaque.