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John MacLeod

When I Heard the Bell: The Loss of the Iolaire

When I Heard the Bell: The Loss of the Iolaire

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  • More about When I Heard the Bell: The Loss of the Iolaire

On December 31, 1918, His Majesty's Yacht Iolaire sailed from Kyle of Lochalsh for Stornoway, carrying home to the Hebrides nearly 300 naval veterans of the Great War. However, the ship ran aground and over 200 men drowned, making it Britain's biggest peacetime disaster at sea since the Titanic. John MacLeod's book explores the events of that night, revealing official incompetence, error, neglect, and individual heroism, as well as the resilience and faith of the remarkable people.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2024
Publisher: Birlinn General


On December 31, 1918, His Majesty's Yacht Iolaire embarked on a perilous journey from Kyle of Lochalsh to Stornoway, carrying home to the Hebrides nearly 300 naval veterans of the Great War. Tragically, the ship never reached its destination. At two in the morning, the vessel ran aground near the mouth of Stornoway harbor, resulting in the tragic drowning of over 200 men, making it one of the largest peacetime maritime disasters in British history. The impact of this disaster was profound, devastating the Isle of Lewis and leaving a lasting scar on the community. In his captivating book, acclaimed journalist John MacLeod delves into the events of that fateful night, uncovering a narrative that encompasses not only official incompetence, errors, and neglect but also remarkable acts of heroism and the unwavering resilience of the people. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, MacLeod paints a vivid picture of the tragedy that unfolded and sheds light on the indomitable spirit of the Lewis community in the face of adversity. This powerful account serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Great War and the resilience of the human spirit.

Weight: 312g
Dimension: 148 x 198 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839830563
Edition number: Reissue

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