Southampton celebrates Titanic's 100 year anniversary

Tuesday, 10 April 2012 7:48 AM

Today is the 100th anniversary of Titanic's doomed maiden voyage. To commemorate the occasion, Southampton – where Titanic sailed from on April 10th 1912 – will be holding a re-enactment ceremony, and opening a brand new maritime museum – the SeaCity museum.

Hundreds of descendants of the families involved in the disaster will take part in the re-enactment, which will involve a recording of the original ships whistle to be played at midday, and a procession of 600 schoolchildren through the city.

The children will each hold a placard bearing the name of a Southampton crew member as a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives during the Titanic disaster.

The SeaCity museum, which explores Titanic's story, will be opened by Olympic rowing hero James Cracknell. Also present will be William and Henry Ward – two children who are descendants of Titanic crew member George Kemish.

Mike Harris, Senior Manager for Leisure and Culture at Southampton City Council said: “The opening will be a proud moment for Southampton. A huge amount of time and effort has gone into every stage of the museum’s creation, and to have finally reached the point where we can open the doors to visitors is a great achievement.’’

SeaCity Museum tells the story of Southampton’s crew on the Titanic, and the impact the tragedy had on families in the city. It also features other major maritime led exhibitions, telling the stories of people who have arrived and departed in the city since pre-historic times.

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