The lecture at the Glens of Antrim Historical Society’s monthly meeting at 8.30 pm on Friday 23 January 2015, in St Mary’s Parish Hall, Cushendall, is by Glenarm man, Iain Bradley, vice-Chairman of the Society.
It is a reflection on an aspect of the Great War. The sailors of the merchant fleet from the Glens of Antrim who were lost in the conflict, will be the subject of the lecture. Over forty sailors from the area “Glenann to Glenarm” were victims of the sea war. The circumstances of the sinking of each vessel and the family background of many of the sailors who perished will be described. The talk will be illustrated with photographs of some of the ships, memorials and the sailors lost in the conflict.
On display will be the binnacle recovered from the wreck of the SS Gem, which was lost on Christmas Day 1914. It was recovered in 1980 by the Scarborough Sub-Aqua Club and restored to pristine condition. This beautiful piece of marine furniture was recently presented to the Red Bay Lifeboat Station, on the centenary of the sinking. We are honoured to have it here on display at the Historical Society talk.
The subject should appeal to all interested in the Great War, Maritime history or the genealogy of families from the Glens of Antrim. Details of the Society’s plans to commemorate their 50th anniversary will also be announced.
Would it be possible to see a copy of this talk please? My grandfather was James McCready one of the sailors lost at sea.
Hi Mary
I’m forwarding your request to our committee and hope to get back to you soon.