A new research project is underway to explore how the story of the Iolaire disaster can be preserved for future generations at a new Iolaire centre in Stornoway.
Over 200 servicemen perished when the Admiralty yacht, HMY Iolaire, was wrecked on the reef during a gale on a seriously flawed approach to Stornoway harbour less than two hours into New Year’s Day on 1 January 1919.
The majority were sailors from Lewis, Harris and Berneray, returning on leave at the end of World War I. Others who perished were the ship’s crew.
The impacts of the tragedy continue to unravel across the communities on the islands of Lewis and Harris, and beyond.
The Iolaire Centre charity said it recognises that understanding these impacts and telling the story are foundation stones on which healing, cultural identity and confidence can be built.
The research -
Lead academic Dr Iain Robertson said: “The outcome of the project will not only ensure that an Iolaire Centre accurately tells the story, but also shares how the event shaped the islands socially, economically, and culturally in the generations since.”
Senior researcher on the project, Professor Marjory Harper, said: “As an historian of emigration and the Scottish diaspora, I am particularly interested in how the tragedy of the Iolaire contributed to a significant increase in emigration from Lewis in the 1920s, and to the long-
Director of the Iolaire Centre charity and author of The Darkest Dawn, Malcolm Macdonald, said: “It is still evident that there are many family stories which require further research before memories fade even further. Records from the time need to be extensively scrutinised.
“The centenary commemorations of 2019 testify that the feelings of the community are still mourning the enormous loss and what it meant to such a small community over the years. The impact of the disaster still casts a shadow on these islands. It is most important that everything pertaining to the Iolaire is recorded for posterity as it is a vitally important part of the islands' history.”
Lorraine Thomson, Interface’s Highlands and Islands manager, said: “Interface, Scotland’s knowledge exchange broker for businesses and organisation, is delighted to have helped the Iolaire Centre at the outset to source academic expertise from the University of the Highlands and Islands. The work will be an important contribution to developing a world class visitor experience to commemorate the tragedy and its impact on the Islands.”
The Iolaire Centre is sponsored by marine equipment firm Gael Force Group and supported by HIE and Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar.
Uncovering the Iolaire disaster’s impact on Lewis and Harris
16 December 2021
HMY Iolaire sank at the entrance to Stornoway harbour