2014 Lusitania Commemoration

Commodore Rynd, Master of the Queen Elizabeth and Commodore of the Cunard fleet lays a wreath at the foot of the Lusitania Peace Memorial in 2012

When Cobh commemorates the sinking of the Lusitania on Bank Holiday Monday, 5th May 2014 , it will be almost 99 years since the liner Lusitania was torpedoed as it approached Cork Harbour on a voyage from New York.

The 2014 commemoration is organised by Cobh Tourism as a fitting memorial to all those who lost their lives on that fateful war time voyage. The first ceremony will commence at the Lusitania graves in the Old Church Cemetery at 2.00 pm. Following prayers, musical honours by a piper from St. Colman’s Pipe Band and the Commodore Male Voice Choir and the laying of wreaths, the proceedings move to Cobh Town Centre. A Parade led by a Colour Party from the O.N.E. and representatives of civic, maritime and historical groups will leave from the Old Town Hall on Lynch’s Quay at approximately 2.45 pm to the Lusitania Peace Memorial in Casement Square. Further ceremonies will take place here remembering the tragic events of 7th May 1915 and the days immediately afterwards. The local fishermen put to sea immediately to help with the rescue efforts and the people of Cobh provided comfort to those who had lost everything. As a symbol of the immense humanitarian effort by the people of Cobh, locals will lay floral tributes along with the Mayor of Cobh in memory of all those who died.

Cobh Tourism is now also planning events for the 2015 centenary in association with the Port of Cork. These will include visits by 2 large cruise ships including a Cunard vessel, a significant commemorative event, a possible reenactment of the funeral procession to the Old Church Cemetery, photographic exhibitions, lectures and shop window displays.