The Memorial to the men lost on the Iolaire

The loss of the Iolaire is a little known major maritime disaster. The armistice had been signed and men were returning to Lewis after war service on New Year's Eve 1918. The Iolaire hit the infamous rocks, The Beasts of Holm, early on January 1st and sunk within yards of the shore.

More than 200 men were lost. It is said that their cries could be heard in the storm by the families waiting to welcome them home.

You can learn more of this awful story at this link

This music is very sad and appropriate - even if you never listen to my music links, listen to this one. Play