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LATEST NEWS EUROPEAN HERITAGE OPEN DAYS 2011
The Belfast Titanic Society is delighted yet again to be associated Details below - SEE YOU THERE !
SS NOMADIC - 26 August 2011 Feedback from visits during the Titanic Festival in May has been very positive. Many of the people were returning to Nomadic having been on board her in Paris and intend to return again when the restoration works are complete. The present works to the superstructure being carried out by Harland and Wolff have proven more difficult and extensive than anticipated and the programme has been extended . However it has been interesting to watch the works progressing and talk to the workmen who know what is original and the changes made by the French. It was particularly disappointing to discover that the timber on the upper deck is not the original and it is evident that the alterations made in converting the Nomadic into a restaurant were significant. The announcement of £3.25 million Heritage Lottery Grant in July was a huge boost. This process took over two years and was the result of hard work by many of the Trustees. It comes after a huge grant to the Giant�s Causeway and the Funders said it was the best application they had ever received. The Department of Social Development have agreed to part match fund this with another £1.0 million. This money will go primarily to the restoration of the interiors but will also include an upgrade to the public access around Hamilton Dock, restoration and extension to the original pump house into the ticket office and the original caisson will be restored. The shortlist of interested parties for the outfitting contract will be completed this week, going out to tender on 5th September 2011 and to be returned in mid October. This work should not be affected by the superstructure works. The Trust is now looking at options on managing and running the vessel. The Nomadic will not be complete for April 2012 but will be open to the public for Titanic celebrations next year.
Bryan
Patterson 26th July 2011
SS Nomadic Latest
It is with great delight to announce that the Heritage Lottery Fund have awarded £3.25m towards the continuing restoration of SS Nomadic. This has been a long and onerous exercise involving many people from funding consultants and Trustees to Titanic Quarter and the Belfast Harbour Commissioners. Work commenced on this application two and a half years ago and it has now all proved worthwhile. The Nomadic Charitable Trust made the first round submission for £2.0m last year and as the reaction was most positive it was decided the scope and extent of the final application should be increased to include additional works to the Hamilton Dock and the caisson (original dock gate) and so £1.25m was added to the second submission. The Heritage Lottery Fund stated it was the best and most comprehensive submission they had ever received and therefore congratulations should be extended to all those involved.
The Department of Social Development who own the vessel have promised an additional £1.0m match funding. The money will go towards finishing the interiors of Nomadic restoring the decorative wooden panelling, reinstating the ceilings and ornate light fittings, refurbishing the original doors and staircases, installing a new heating system and providing facilities for the disabled. Other works will be carried out to the ground around Hamilton Dock with ticketing facilities, restoration of the original pump house external lighting (1912 vintage) and refurbishing the caisson which is berthed in Hamilton Dock to the bow of Nomadic. Two Harland and Wolff vessels in dry dock next to each other, Nomadic no. 422 built 1911 and the caisson no. 50 built 1867.
The interior designs have been detailed by the conservation architects and the planning applications have already been lodged with Environmental Heritage and Planning authorities. Invitations to tender have been advertised and a short list drafted and it is intended the works will commence immediately after the superstructure and steelworks are completed in late summer.
It has taken a long time to reach this stage but it has been worth waiting for and is an indication of the commitment and dedication of those involved, to complete the restoration project properly and sensitively and we look forward to exciting and exacting times ahead.
Someone did caution me by saying the serious work is only now ready to commence.
Bryan Patterson Belfast Titanic Society’s representative on the Nomadic Charitable Trust.
17th June 2011 FOR SALE Ormiston House, Hawthornden Road, Belmont, Belfast
HIGHLY PRESTIGIOUS DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY Prime location with a significant frontage to Hawthornden Way in the Belmont suburbs of the city. Belmont is a highly popular residential area of Belfast and is approximately 4 miles from the city centre. The surrounding road infrastructure is first class; the city centre is only a 7 minute drive in non-peak traffic.
The
property comprises a Grade B listed building which is in need of
refurbishment
The buildings are set in highly attractive landscaped grounds of c. 13 acres.
Following a "PAD" process a planning application was lodged in December 2010 . . . . . . . Ormiston House is the former home of Lord Pirrie, Chairman of H&W who came up with the idea of the Olympic Class Liner of which Titanic was the second vessel to be built. He died in 1924. The house had originally been owned by Edward Harland, who with Gustav Wolff, formed the shipbuilding company in 1861. The house was originally built in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1867. It was brought over to its present site by Coombe Reed, a wealthy Scotsman who was associated with shipbuilding in Belfast ... indeed a house with a very special history. The house, and grounds, is now up for sale and the advert appeared in the local press on June 2011. The house has been vacant since the late 1990s. What awaits it now? The attached print has been reproduced by kind permission of local Belfast artist Myles Faulkner and copies can be obtained from the society. Further information from info@belfast-titanic.com Una Reilly
10th May 2011
STEVE RIGBY
1959 – 2011
The sudden death of Steve Rigby robs the Titanic World of one of its most knowledgeable and dedicated members.
Steve first became interested in Titanic at the age of eight, when an uncle loaned him a copy of Walter Lord’s book, “A Night to Remember”. The image of the world’s biggest ship sinking on its maiden voyage, the lifeboats drifting alone in the middle of the dark ocean, fascinated the young Steve and, as with so many of us “Titanoraks”, once the fascination bites, you stay bitten!
He was, from its early years, Joint Honorary Secretary of The British Titanic Society and worked tirelessly to build up the Society over the years. Together with fellow officers, he organised many of the BTS Annual Conventions.
His greatest adventure was when he dove to the wreck in 2001. That experience had a profound and lasting affect on him, and he was always in demand as a speaker to recount his dive, enlivened by some of his amazing photographs and video footage.
For health and family reasons, Steve had taken a less active role in recent years, but was looking forward to working within the BTS towards the Centenary Commemorations.
Always good company, his infectious enthusiasm, sense of humour and friendliness, will be sadly missed by many people.
6th February 2011
RESTORATION OF SS NOMADIC
At long last, some news. Press release today
Following competitive European wide tender, Harland and Wolff have been awarded the superstructure works on Nomadic which include the upper deck, funnel, bridge and essential internal steelworks in preparation for out fitting of vessel.
£4million,primarily funded from Europe and NI Tourist Board. Not an easy contract. Difficult negotiations.
Start 1st February 2011. 26 week contract
Will be open for hard hat tours 20-31 May 2011
Stage 2 Heritage Lottery Fund application being submitted in April 2011.
Hamilton Dock in good shape.
Ship in good shape
Will give more information in a few weeks.
20th October 2010
Olympic Anniversary
20th October 2010 marked the hundredth anniversary of Titanic's sister ship, RMS Olympic. Members of the society marked the occasion with a short informal ceremony on slipway No2.
Proceedings were opened by our president, John Andrews who welcomed everyone and remarked that the weather on the day of Olympic's launch was remarkably similar to the weather for the society's event.
Susie Millar read a passage from Mark Chirnside's book, RMS Olympic, Titanic's Sister in which an observer describes the scene of the launch and talks in glowing terms about the dimensions and lines of Olympic.
Reverend Ian Gilpin then closed with a prayer and remembered our friend the late Norman Robinson who was part of a small band who commemorated Olympic's keel laying centenary nearly two years ago.
Thanks to all who attended this important event as we build up to Titanic's launch centenary next May.
1st August 2010
“Ship of Dreams Unveiling” by Sandra Gilpin
A new piece of wall art was unveiled on Thursday 3rd June at Kennilworth Place, at what can well be regarded as the Gateway to East Belfast on the Newtownards Road.
The mural entitled 'Ship Of Dreams' incorporates iconic images against a white background and includes representations of Thomas Andrews, Captain Smith, Jack Philips and the young Ned Parfett holding the Evening News Poster with the headlines announcing the disaster. In addition to the Harland and Wolff symbol the compass bearing, the Morse signal SOS and the name of the ship and her number (401) on the wall a White Star pennant flutters at the apex of the roof. The ship itself dominates and appears to surge towards the onlookers – a reminder that this was not only a ship of dreams but a technological marvel of steam power and steel plate.
The well known artist Ross Wilson had worked with the local community to produce the piece and their pride in it is clearly evident. The unveiling was hosted by East Belfast Partnership and the project was supported through the “Re-Imaging Communities Programme” led by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. In addition to representatives of these bodies Junior Minister Mr. Robert Newton MLA, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Cllr. Naomi Long MP, MLA were present and spoke of their pride in the project and satisfaction at the successful outcome. Children from Beechfield Primary School were present – a reminder that the project is owned by all age groups of the local community. The selection of “You Raise Me Up” and "Nearer my God to Thee” added to the event and were deeply appreciated by all present. On the invitation to the event the following words were quoted:
"The Titanic was a ship of dreams, its reality and design began in the mind dream of one man, thousands of others helped create and rivet metal into myth: this artwork celebrates the reality of dreams, caught within one single voyage" Ross Wilson, Artist.
Today’s community has a vision for a future that is better than the recent past, this Mural is a tangible representation of that change and seeks out that which is commendable in our history to fashion a vision for the future.
It is well worth pulling off the road to view the mural, the local community is proud of its connection with the shipyard and to show visitors a positive image of Belfast.
Titanic Bow Section unveiled 22nd June 2010 On a beautiful Sunday afternoon, members of the Society watched as a third size scale model of the partially built hull of Titanic was unveiled down by the Thompson Dry Dock. To the sounds of very loud fireworks and the raising of the White Star flag, Northern Ireland Science Park's CEO Norman Apsley, helped by DCAL's David Thompson, declared the replica 'open'. Created as part of the forthcoming Channel 4 and National Geographic television series to be called "We built the Titanic", the structure has been gifted to the people of Belfast. A team of engineers attempted to build the bow section using mostly the traditional methods used in the actual building of the ship but aided by modern techniques. The TV programme is an attempt to get a sense of the craftsmanship and innovative ideas present in the 1900s shipbuilding yard of Harland & Wolff. Present at the event was Society President John Andrews, whose great uncle Thomas Andrews was drowned in the sinking. Society member and ex Yard man, George McAllister, who had himself worked under the Arrol gantries for many years, was taking a close look at the riveting! Images courtesy of Society Member Joseph Cohen"
3rd November 2009
MAJOR PUBLIC ARTWORK UNVEILED AT TITANIC QUARTER
‘Kit’ is a dramatic site-specific light sculpture which is 13.5 metres tall and cast in bronze. It is ambiently lit with blue and white phosphorous lighting that suggests the adjacent marine environment and the searchlights of ships. The artwork depicts recognisable Titanic elements on an outer frame and the overall sculpture suggests toy kits and Air Fix models. It enables all generations to relate to the creation of RMS Titanic in this area of Belfast. The sculpture is designed to offer a sense of shared ownership while simultaneously being playful and light-hearted. For Stallard, the sculpture is intended to “symbolise Belfast as an industrial pioneer at the time of building the Titanic. It references the industrial heritage of the area and can be seen as a reverie of the past, to create nostalgia of what was once heroic. It is designed to act as a contemporary tribute to the shipbuilders. The sculpture is ‘see through’ and transient, almost mythological.”
Through open submission competition, ArtSpark NI on behalf of Titanic Quarter Ltd and Arts & Business NI commissioned the signature public artwork as part of its Integrated Arts Strategy for ARC. The major public sculpture is by Essex-based artist Tony Stallard and is the artist’s largest public artwork to date.
This artwork is an exciting development for Belfast. It is a good news story at a time of economic complexity. Mike Smith, CEO of Titanic Quarter has applauded the artwork; “The Tony Stallard sculpture is magnificent. It will add richness to the well designed public space at Abercorn Basin and significant interest to the well established heritage trail along Queen’s Road. At Titanic Quarter we are building the future from the past and Kit, with its references to the Titanic’s creation and the industrial heritage of the area, is a perfect illustration of that.” Millvina Dean. 2nd February 1912 - 31st May 2009 Titanic's youngest survivor and finally the last.
Our thanks must go to the Reverend Neville Jacob who conducted the service with great dignity and to the Harbour master who allowed us to use his launch to scatter Millvina's ashes and floral tributes into the sea. Special thanks must go to David Hill for all his hard work which culminated in a Memorial service which was a fitting tribute for "Millvina .. a life to remember" It was a very emotional and moving day for all concerned
More details will be given in the next issue of CDQ. Una Reilly Chairman
Wreath supplied by Belfast City Council.
26th October 2009
7th August 2009 Nomadic in her new home. The Hamilton Dry Dock, Belfast. Photographs courtesy of Paul Fryer, Nomadic Preservation Society.
29th July 2009 Preparing for Nomadic. The Hamilton Dry Dock preparations near completion, in order to receive Nomadic in early August, when she will, hopefully, be open to the public. Photographs courtesy of Paul Fryer, Nomadic Preservation Society.
Sunday 22nd March 2009 Titanic's Keel-Laying Remembered
Courtesy of Titanic Quarter Limited which has guardianship of the area, the Belfast Titanic Society gathered on No.3 slipway, Queens Yard, Belfast to remember, with pride, those men who started preparing the slipway for the ‘birth of Titanic’ on Monday 22nd March 1909. In order to lay the first steel plate which would become the foundation ‘stone’ from which the then biggest ship in the world would grow, it was necessary to do a great deal of ground work. Thousands of wooden keel blocks had to be set out along 850ft of the slipway. This work was not completed until Wednesday 31st March 1909. Upon these blocks, the steel keel or ‘spine, of the ship would be created. Those men were not to know, that 100-years on , we would be there on a sunny Mothers Day afternoon to remember them & to celebrate our proud maritime history in which they played such an important part. It was also a fitting time to remember the roles played by the wives & mothers at home. Members gathered round a group of replica keel blocks, kindly supplied by Harland & Wolff, the company which built Titanic and hundreds of other ships and which still is flourishing in Belfast today though not in shipbuilding. A steel plate will be laid on these blocks on the 31st March to celebrate the centenary of Titanic’s keel laying. The process was explained by George McAllister ex Harland & Wolff Foreman Rigger and prayers were composed and shared with us by Rev Ian Gilpin from the Andrews family place of worship, the Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church in Comber. It was a time to reflect on the past but look forward to the future. Pictures courtesy of society member, Joseph Cohen.
Gathering in the Drawing Office
George McAllister explains the process. Realistic sample of the keel blocks used.
The Rev Ian Gilpin who officiated at our service. Thanks must go to our photographer, Joseph Cohen.
All those who attended. Titanic family and committee members.
16th December 2008
100th Anniversary of Keel Laying of SS No. 400 (RMS Olympic) on Slipway No 2, Former Queens Yard, Belfast. This area is now under the control and guardianship of Titanic Quarter Ltd and we thank them for access to the site.
Ian & Sandra Gilpin, Susie Miller, David Rebbeck, Una Reilly, Bill Austin, Norman Robinson.
Members gathered to remember the beginning of the Olympic Class Liner, a highlight in the history of shipbuilding here in Belfast. Olympic has been very much in the shadowed of her younger sister, Titanic. We know so much about Titanic’s tragedy and supposed failings but little of Olympic’s achievements. Olympic was the first of three Olympic Class Liners, followed by her sister ships Titanic & Britannic. (Sometimes referred to as the Beloved, the Damned and the Forgotten). When launched, she was the biggest man-made moving object on the planet. Olympic was designed for comfort, not for speed and for nearly 27 years she was a great asset to her owners, firstly White Star Line, then Cunard.
When scrapped she was still the largest British-built ship afloat, apart from the Queen Mary which was being fitted out at the time. She had set new standards in size and comfort of travel. Contrary to popular belief, she was never in competition to win the Blue Riband, awarded for the fastest time across the Atlantic.
She was a troop carrier during the war; she sank a German U-Boat. After the war she had a major refit to oil fired and returned to the transatlantic route, again “The Queen of the Seas”
Lord Pirrie, H&W Chairman at the turn of the 20th century and the person credited with the idea of creating the Olympic Class liner, has an engraving of Olympic on his memorial in the grounds of Belfast City Hall.
In the 1930s, cruising was not so popular and it was decided to scrap Olympic. In many ways this was unfair as of all the big liners left, she was still the most economical to run, even at her advanced age. She was a credit to her builders H&W.
Statistics:
Keel laid 16th December 1908 Launched 20th October 1910 Left Belfast 31st May 1911 Maiden Voyage 14th June 1911 Final voyage to be scrapped 11th October 1935 (27 years)
A Belfast built ship served her masters well. This is vividly shown in the Nomadic, the last White Star Line ship afloat, back here in Belfast and also about to celebrate her 100th birthday.
Nomadic SS No.422 Keel Laid Dec 1910 Launched April 1911 Left Belfast May 1911 Returned to Belfast July 2006.
“ Today we remember all of the men of steel, the Islandmen, all those who toiled in the shipyards, who watched with pride as their creations sailed away. We will never forget the great tragedy of the Titanic but we must also never let that overshadow all the triumphs. Let us begin to celebrate the fine maritime and cultural history of which Belfast can be so proud.”
Una Reilly Chairman & Co-Founder Belfast Titanic Society.
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On Saturday 24th October 2009, the
Titanic family had the opportunity of paying our last respects to that
very special lady, Millvina Dean. The Memorial service, by kind permission
of the Dean family, was organized by David Hill from the British Titanic
Society, of which Millvina was president. We gathered in St. Mary's
Church, Copythorne where Millvina's mother Ettie is buried for the
Memorial service and afterwards Millvina's ashes were scattered, half on
her mother's grave and half in the waters of Berths 43/44 in Southampton
Docks, from where Millvina sailed on Titanic as a tiny baby in 1912.
Present through out were members of the worldwide Titanic family,
remembering a very gracious lady who had great charisma and vitality,
someone we all sadly miss. Mandy Le Boutillier ( Titanic-Verein), David
and myself spoke at the service whilst Charles Haas who is President of
Titanic International and was unable to attend, sent a beautiful message
which was read out. The Mayor of Southampton read 'Gone from my sight' by
Henry Van Dyke. There was a minute of reflection whist we listened to a
piece of Millvina's favourite music "Claire de Lune"
