Horrific Tragedy: The Sinking of RMS Empress of Ireland

This is truly one of modern history's most horrifying disasters - but it's been almost forgotten about. Two years after the Titanic sank, in May 1914 the Canadian Pacific steamer Empress of Ireland was departing on her first voyage of the summer season loaded with hundreds of hopeful passengers ranging from high society to humble migrants. In just fourteen minutes the magnificent ship sank, taking with it the acting giants Laurence Irving and Mabel Hackney, nearly 170 members of the Salvation Army and hundreds more; 1,102 people in total. In this film, relive the story of the Empress of Ireland as never before with state of the art graphical recreations and two special musical performances.
Oceanliner Designs explores the design, construction, engineering and operation of history’s greatest vessels- from Titanic to Queen Mary and from the Empress of Ireland to the Lusitania. Join maritime researcher and illustrator Michael Brady as he tells the stories behind some of history's most famous ocean liners and machines!
0:00 Lost in the fog
2:04 The Empress
10:11 The Characters
20:04 Departure
22:45 The Storstad
25:15 First night at sea
30:40 The creeping fog
35:02 Disaster strikes
38:36 The Empress sinks
52:44 Rescue and heroes
59:58 The victims and inquiries
1:04:24 Epilogue
#ship #history #sinking #engineering #tragedy #documentary #titanic

[@c.w.simpsonproductions1230]

Another chilling detail to this story: When Captain Kendall was on his deathbed in 1965, the nurses attending Kendall reported that he seemed to be reliving the horror of a shipwreck in his delirium.

[@bagamingcyprus8956]

thanks i did not need to know that and i hate it

[@devoe365]

…. What is going on here?

[@Gruwg2024]

Want to give some kind of proof of this claim?

[@norbeaster784]

@@Gruwg2024 Go look for it yourself if you want it.

[@foxecho727]

its in Wikipedia, take for it what its worth..@@Gruwg2024

[@Engine33Truck]

Possibly the saddest ocean liner disaster I know of. So close to shore, yet so far for so many. Rest in peace to the victims

[@thearmoredgeorgian2736]

The SS Eastland capsized at the dock, and some 800 passengers still died. Sometimes there’s nothing that can be done

[@theflame5919]

Titanic is way sadder, I think, and much more ordained. Everything for that ship to sink, was perfectly arranged, years in advance... down to most minute details.. and even the change of currents at the last hours, correcting for the correction of course to avoid the ice. The consequence of its sinking, is WW1 and WW2, which collectively took well over 100mil lives. That is, because the financial and aristocratic elite of the British Empire and the US, sunked with it, bringing up amateur inheritors, who mismanaged very fragile political and financial institutions, making WW1 and thought it, WW2 inevitable. In truth, once I've considered all of the hundreds of "coincidences" what had to occur with perfect timing, to make Titanic sink... and the sheer impact it had on human history as a result... is astonishing. It's as if the hand of God was intimately involved at the most meticulous level, from the formation of the ice to the currents, and the crew. Its really astounding once you look at the entire picture with every peace of the puzzle in place. Anyhow.. it's not like there is q championship of tragedy, and this one is horrific too in it's own way.. just far less segnificant in terms of global consequence.

[@muhammads.a.m4727]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/npfOnq14o62md8U

[@hansolo631]

@@theflame5919 I think blaming ww1 and ww2 on the sinking of the titanic is a bit sensationalistic.

[@theflame5919]

@@hansolo631 I'm not. It happened for many reasons, but the loss of the financial and aristocratic elite of the British Empire, and alot of the big bankers from US, was one of the catalysts, what made the whole thing possible, to a very large extent. It's not a cause in of itself, not arguing that. But it did create the conditions what made it much more likely once the causes themselves where made manifest.

[@alexlents4689]

You’re videos on ship disasters are a perfect example of why I say that, if you look for it, there is content on KZbin that rivals TV. The writing, the animations, the narration, it’s all legit professional grade stuff, and yet we can watch it for free! Hats off to you, good sir!

[@beckyfrazee1508]

I agree.

[@simonshaw1631]

Yes Ditto to that, especially history & war documentaries

[@steveib724]

Yah this my new TV go from 65in to a 6 inch lol

[@Kasartsart0]

Ditto. Well said Alex. Thank you.

[@ImperialGuard322nd]

Given what I've seen of recent television, I'd say that the best stuff here on KZbin is better than television. Passion for what you are doing has a big impact.

[@XDrZaneX]

The most horrific part of these disasters is always the loss of power. I've been on the water, river and ocean, and you cannot comprehend how DARK it is unless you've been there. The idea of trying to survive in that utter pitch is the thing of night terrors.

[@nikkfrostt]

For anyone interested in the last known survivor. I googled it while listening to this: "Edith Grace Martyn (nee Hanagan May 16, 1907 - May 15, 1995) was the youngest and last survivor of the sinking of the Empress of Ireland on May 29, 1914. She was one of four children (out of the 138 children on board) who survived the sinking." One day shy of turning 88. Rip Edith.

[@unchargedpickles6372]

I believe she is the child who was on her bed and when the other ship crashed she ended up in the hull or on the deck of the other ship still in her bed.

[@Doffy11232]

​@@unchargedpickles6372really!!

[@The.Stalker]

@@unchargedpickles6372 She was not. She was fished out of the water by a lifeboat almost exclusively filled with men.

[@teheyepatch]

@@unchargedpickles6372 That's Linda Morgan from the Andrea Doria.

[@Shawnchapp]

@@unchargedpickles6372 is she end up on the deck still in bed dam that girl as some of the best luck...

[@pyrace]

Mate... I love how you articulate, not only the event but the human struggle. Most focus on the ship itself, but you have wholistically given this tragedy so much more soul and depth. As a writer, I salute you, Sir. 🫡

[@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017]

This seems so much worse than the Titanic, even though the loss of life is roughly the same size. It just went down so fast.

[@Nicksonian]

Our friend’s writing ability is exceptional, as is his delivery.

[@Mark-in8ju]

@@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017 Is it sadder than the SS Arctic disaster of 1854? Only 88 people survived out of 400+. Zero of the survivors were women or children.

[@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017]

@@Mark-in8ju I'm not sure I understand your point.

[@jimmyjames2022]

My neighbour is retired from the the Salvation Army brass band. He makes sure people don't forget the Empress of Ireland disaster. For him it's personal, his uncle was in the band going to UK when he died in the collision and subsequent sinking.

[@michaelafamfulikova1534]

as the sinking of Titanic is connected, according to the legend, with Nearer My God To Thee, the farewell to the Empress on her last voyage will forever be connected with the Salvation Army's God Be With You Till We Meet Again. Here the tune is eerily blended into the documentary, and it gives me chills. The Titanic may be the most famous shipwreck ever, but the story of the EoI is not less chilling, I would say even equally so.

[@dougieh9676]

Thank you for sharing this. I feel like crying over this and I don't cry easily. 😢

[@amyhamaker7803]

The thought of arms sticking out from portholes unable to be rescued is going to haunt me for a long time. This was an amazing documentary and tribute to a great ship.

[@InForTheLonghaul]

So close, yet so far

[@Man-From-Another-Place]

I found that particular detail very troubling as well.

[@outsidersongs2682]

That part may not be correct because passengers climbed out of those portholes and were seen standing outside the ship as it went down as opposed to people seeing arms but it would have been a very confusing scene. Some were saved from the water after but it was a horrific sinking.

[@virginiawallace87]

Very well done. God Bless those who. “Passed” and special blessing on those who risked their own lives to help. Be assured there is more good in the world than “ bad “ we just have to look a little harder for it. 1:07:00

[@philiprufus4427]

H M S Royal Oak was similar. R N Divers were confronted with the sight ofdozens of boys drowned. Told nothing was wrong when they awoke to a shudder of the Battleship as the first torpedoes struck. The German was uncucssesfull in his first attack and allowed to make a second. Many were trapped below deck and tried uncuccessfully to escape via the portholes becoming stuck. H M S Royal Oak was sunk in The Home Fleet Anchorage of Scapa Flow, by Kapitan Gunther Prien in 1939.

[@mr.p.4512]

Born and lived near the St. Lawrence all my life, and boated on it many, many times. It's savage, icy cold, with very strong currents, and always full of pleasurecraft and freighters. I heard about the Empress of Ireland sinking many years ago, and simply did not realize the scale of the disaster... This was amazing, haunting, and heartbreaking storytelling and imagery. This hit close to home...

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Thanks for commenting, I'd love to visit there some day!

[@GarrettWatts]

Mike you’re incredible. Thank you for this heartbreaking but incredible video.

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Garrett you legend! Thanks mate, appreciate you!

[@caledonianrailway1233]

@@OceanlinerDesigns no one has done a video on empress of Britain what exactly happened?

[@caledonianrailway1233]

I know it sank but that’s about all I know

[@OldShippinglines]

@@caledonianrailway1233 do you mean her Sister Ship or the Empress with 3 funnels?

[@caledonianrailway1233]

@@OldShippinglines I dunno I think it was the sister ship I read it in a book and can’t find any info

[@PalmettoGD]

My great great grandfather was on that ship and survived. If he didn’t survive much of my family wouldn’t be alive today.

[@meganesergerie5382]

I heard this tragedy was worst than the sinking of the Titanic in terms of lost lives but the first world war was declared not long after that so the world forgot about the Empress since then. My family is from Pointe-au-Père. The Empress sinked more in front of Ste-Luce the village right east but at the time the lighthouse closest was Pointe-au-Père. There is a naval museum I visit every 2 or 3 years. My father had the task to cut the grass at the mémorial Stone since our house is located on the river front there. Just thought that would interest you to know that. What an amazing survival story your ancestor have! Cheers from Québec

[@ToreDL87]

@@meganesergerie5382 Sank, not sinked, sinked isn't a word, how can you defy both the red line noting it's misspelled + autocorrect in one fell swoop?

[@meganesergerie5382]

@@ToreDL87 thanks for the lesson. I am francophone living in Quebec. I spell and conjugate much better in french.

[@meganesergerie5382]

@@ToreDL87 I don't use autocorrect and my computer settings are in french-canadian by the way. But thanks for the reminder on irregular verbs

[@chrissieroxba2949]

@@ToreDL87rude. Jeez.

[@JennyferPepin]

I love how in the video, the entire sinking sequence is done in 14min, just like the real sinking took 14min. It just goes to show how quickly it happened, and how much hurt in did in such a short amount of time.

[@Corristo89]

The fact that only four children survived hit me incredibly hard as a father of a little baby girl. 14 minutes of total confusion and terror were terrible enough for adults who failed to realize what was happening until it was too late, but children stood no chance of getting out of that sinking death trap. RIP little ones, too many young lives needlessly lost and cut short far too soon.

[@kariukingugi39]

Have you followed the SS Arctic disaster? That one is even more heartbreaking. No woman or child survived mainly because of the actions of dishonorable men on board

[@RogerLewis-ey2tt]

Corristo, damn it, this is a tragedy and you made me LAUGH!

[@GingerNinja1]

​@@RogerLewis-ey2tt Laugh at what?

[@JordanTRVL]

@karlwithak. This was in 1914 you absolute simpleton

[@peggypasson8794]

Heartbreaking

[@JeffManseau]

I can see where it sank from my parent’s beach house. When we were kids in the 80s and played by the beach we’d still find artifacts from the wreck every once in a while.

[@backonpro5679]

Did you take any?

[@morning77light]

The titanic was bad,and I thought she went down fast,but this is a horrific nightmare! RIP to all who lost their lives that night. You told her story very well. Thank you for sharing this, much appreciated.

[@frauleinhohenzollern8442]

Titanic took over 2 hours to sink! That's relatively slow when it comes to ships of this era sinking...

[@__-fm5qv]

@@frauleinhohenzollern8442 Its slow by even todays standards really!

[@pocketmarcy6990]

@@__-fm5qvI feel like ships either take several hours to sink or they sink in under 30 minutes

[@meganesergerie5382]

I heard this tragedy worst than the sinking of the Titanic in a matter of deaths but the first world war was declared not long after that so the world forgot about the Empress since then. My family is from Pointe-au-Père. The Empress sinked more in front of Ste-Luce the village right east but at the time the lighthouse closest was Pointe-au-Père. There is a naval museum I visit every 2 or 3 years. My father had the task to cut the grass at the mémorial Stone since our house is located on the river front there. Just thought that would interest you to know that.

[@NathanSimonGottemer]

Titanic sunk very slowly - paradoxically the engineering both doomed her and saved 700+ of her passengers. That said the engineering flaws on Titanic were the result of decisions by penny pinching execs and so it’s hard to fault the shipyard or engineers.

[@emilyrussell1536]

Somehow as a Canadian, I'd never heard of this tragedy. I was always interested in the Titanic and never even thought to look into other wrecks. What an incredible loss, and SO well presented in this video!

[@juanmanumanudice8848]

Not like their old technology was to blame it happens nowdays too costa concordia was sink hitting a small island in italy. A stupid tragedy but about 30 people died. And a few weeks ago a big fishing ship carrying about 700 persons was sink but only 100 were rescued in greece... the sea has it's dangers and secrets

[@bojanglesthewizard8875]

​@@juanmanumanudice8848the reason nobody talks about it is due to how many passengers it had and how little people died. 30 people out of 4229 is about 0.7% of passengers. Plus it was 100% with the amount of modern technology

[@faithintheunseen1294]

@@juanmanumanudice8848. I didn’t hear about the ship in Greece! Will have to look it up

[@elleelizabeth2736]

@@faithintheunseen1294yes, it’s soo sad! It happened around the time everyone was talking about the Titan, it was carrying refugees

[@ronaldpokatiloff5704]

There are villains to this tragedy! Our universe was made by computer code. Many people are to blame in making this AI. IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN! And no one will stop it.

[@PeBoVision]

Mike, you told us a couple months ago that you planned to impress us, but this sir, is next level. From Oceanliner Illustrator, to teller of nautical tales, to this level of production quality - all in insanely short order. I am not impressed, I stand in awe. What you have accomplished here is astounding. Perhaps being raised in Québec and being familiar with this particular tale it hit close to home, but I was actually emotionally moved. Not even your always soothing voice could asuage the feeling of despair I felt for the fate of passengers and crew. Pride in the quality of this production is absolutely warranted. Kudos kind sir, and my thanks.

[@arche2460]

It's not just because you're from Quebec. I don't live in Canada and I almost cried from this. The use of visuals and audio with his gentle voice was almost too much. But the video was so beautifully done I couldn't stop watching it!

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Thanks so much, I honestly am always floored by the incredible feedback I get from comments and it makes everything myself and the team do so worthwhile. Thanks so much for watching!

[@PeBoVision]

@@OceanlinerDesigns and I hope you (and your team) blow KZbin's view retention analytics out of the water!

[@RockinRobbins13]

_"Mike, you told us a couple months ago that you planned to impress us"_ Promise fully kept.

[@Tony_417]

You can’t be serious with your blowing review 😂?!?! The things some people will say for attention is just pathetic

[@crazyteenagers]

I am Canadian, and I have heard the history of this tragedy before. This is the best researched, written, and presented documentary about the Empress of Ireland I have seen. Well done Mike and Crew, and thank you!

[@LJB103]

The reason that I feel that this disaster has not been treated like it deserves is that the people who died were just good everyday people - there wasn't an Astor, Straus, Guggenheim, or Countess of Rothes on the ship.

[@RC-nq7mg]

I agree, I know of the accident and, life of the ship, and legacy, however it was all learned from watching many different documentaries and videos, as well as literary research. This is the first I have seen to gather and bring so much information and detail about this topic. I am Canadian as well.

[@nthgth]

​@@LJB103Titanic also took about a movie's length of time to sink, great to make a movie out of every 40 or 50 years to keep it a household name. Plus it was her maiden voyage, adding an "are you kidding me" bit.

[@LJB103]

@@nthgth True, but it only took 18 minutes for the Lusitania to sink and an hour for the Wilhelm Gusloff (with 9,343 deaths!). More to my point is what do most people remember about the Titanic: John Jacob Astor IV; Benjamin Guggenheim and his manservant getting dressed up; Ida Straus refusing to leave her husband Isadore; Margaret (never called Molly) Tobin Brown....(and maybe a few crew members). How many remember 2nd class passengers let alone steerage class? Most.if not all, aboard the Empress of Ireland would most likely have been 2nd class on the Titanic. I do suspect that many people do not know much, if anything, about the MV Wilhelm Gustloff either.

[@janethollman7894]

An amazing story of grief heartache and bravery. It doesn’t really matter who was at fault. Just how those poor people struggled to survive trying to get out of portholes in despair. I had never heard of this tragedy before the Titanic and the war overshadowed everything. Thank you so much for your documentary that was really researched well. It must have been harrowing and distressing for all involved. Thank you once again.

[@jackcrowell4484]

Production value of this is insane

[@gunnermatthey847]

Why am I obsessed with ship wrecks and plane wrecks?? Love this channel bro

[@melissasheppard6674]

Rest in peace to all the victims. I recall hearing the story of David and Bertha Creighton, a Canadian couple who lost their lives on the Empress. Props to Mike and crew for putting this together.

[@Maritime_History]

RIP to all 1,012 souls who lost their lives 109 years ago during the Sinking of RMS Empress of Ireland on May 29, 1914. May They Never Be Forgotten. Thank you Mike for this amazing documentary. Keep up the great work.

[@barbarae-b507]

My mom was the Canadian Salvation Army’s first official historian and she often spoke of this event. I remember her being very frustrated with the guy who discovered the Empress of Ireland and his constant disturbing of what is the grave of a lot people. She knew just about everything there was to know and we went as a family to the Salvation Army service that is held in May at the monument to the Salvation Army’s people who were lost in the wreck. I know that many of the people who were the senior members of the Salvation Army died in it and it was very difficult to find people to replace those lost. I will remember this event until I die because of my mom’s passion in keeping the story alive.

[@DogmadawgMAMR]

Cheers to you and your mom

[@returnofthemack8347]

Blessings to your mama 🙏

[@corycollier]

Words honestly fail Me right now... This has to be one of the most amazing documentaries I've ever watched, and not just on KZbin. How you kept your voice so calm and even, is beyond Me. You truly honor not just the Empress Of Ireland, but all those who perished that tragic day and even those who survived, as well as their families. Well done.

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Such lovely kind words, thanks so much!

[@Nicksonian]

Indeed. I agree wholeheartedly

[@IndeedQuiteSo]

I'm only 2 minutes in, and it's already clear this is going to be a masterful retelling of a story that deserves to be told more often. Edit after watching: "There was just the quick, the lucky, and the dead." What a powerful phrase to capture the essence of the Empress tragedy. Well done, Mike.

[@Zadir09]

You’ve truly outdone yourself with this one Mike! Thank you for honoring all who were lost and the spirit of the ship itself. You really know how to tell a story in a way that is respectful to the subject, the victims, and the viewers as well. it’s fantastic. You’re one of the best channels on the platform imo. Great Job as always!

[@railroad9000]

Absolutely! You have an excellent voice for speaking and story telling! Well done!

[@gregorykayne6054]

You just climb from strength to strength. Bravo again!

[@mad4surfing2]

Agree, it's also the person who does the graphics. It's good enough for TV. Really impressive.

[@micdropfroggyface6466]

Ummmmmmm… this wasn’t the most boring thing you’ve ever heard…. In your entire life????? 😳

[@railroad9000]

@@micdropfroggyface6466 I rather enjoyed it!

[@norrona5923]

That ship was carrying heroes. I'm so sad, but documentaries like you keep their deeds alive.

[@IzzyOnTheMove]

30:40 I'm pretty sure they looked back. I've lived by the St Lawrence River my whole life and no matter how many times i've seen a ship go by in my life, i am always fascinated and awed by them. We never get blasé of ships. And yes, i hear the horns blowing when the river is covered in fog. It's always special to me.

[@galacticknight55544]

This shipwreck is even more horrifying than the Titanic. Fewer people died, but it was a bigger percentage of the passengers than those who died on the Titanic and almost all the children died.

[@brendan9868]

You aren’t wrong, the sheer speed that things went to shit completely cut any chance of the usual children and women first. Sounds like it was literally just if you could fill a lifeboat just send it immediately. The location wasn’t as bad as the titanic tho. Was in a river only 5 miles from shore, far better for survival chances if you escape the ship than just being essentially in the middle of nowhere in the North Atlantic

[@galacticknight55544]

@@brendan9868 It was also hard to launch the lifeboats due to the ship essentially rolling over on its starboard side. And like the North Atlantic, the water in the St. Lawrence River was below freezing. Anyone who fell in would have frozen to death in minutes.

[@mariahwhitneycelinejanetmadona]

how was it a bigger %?

[@galacticknight55544]

@@mariahwhitneycelinejanetmadona 1,012 of the 1,447 passengers on the Empress of Ireland died, which is equal to roughly 69%. Roughly 1,500 of the 2,200 passengers on the Titanic died, or roughly 68%.

[@TukaihaHithlec]

@@galacticknight55544Effectively the same, but terrible either way. I can’t bring myself to even try to imagine.

[@satelliteexile2089]

I've gone from never having heard of it through to tears for it in 66 minutes. Masterfully told, and that the hymn was performed by a Salvation Army band didn't go unnoticed.

[@opurrski]

Well he could not have told this story better than me considering I was on the ship! He tells it ok, but if i were the one describing this event I would tell the truth of what happened unlike this guy (who leaves out so many details.) He doesn't even know about Larry who was on board with me at the time (he died btw) Larry was the steering commissioner of the boat and someone bet 10000$ that he wouldn't crash the ship and bro did! What a legend!

[@Willow_Sky]

​@opurrski wow, you're very good at using KZbin for someone who must be more than 120 years old!

[@Klutech]

lol Must have found the fountain of youth. Nevermind... "steering commissioner"...@@Willow_Sky

[@theeltea]

​@@opurrskidumb...

[@hugh5698]

Mike this is your friend Hugh here, what an absolutely stunning production! As other commenters have said your incredibly well put together videos put the other big boy studios to shame.

[@ManWhoLovesTheMary]

Too often, we associate sinkings of these beautiful ocean liners with only the wreck and the disaster that caused it. It's so hard to associate ships like this with their original splendour and the stories that made that splendour possible. Thank you for opening my eyes to the Empress of Ireland's splendour before the terrible disaster that struck her and the 1,012 passengers that lost their lives that terrible, cold night.

[@petermoore2104]

Hi Mike. This is an absolute masterpiece. Your incredible storytelling ability, obvious love of ships and the terrific graphics and editing have combined to create a film that puts 95% of the History Channel, Discovery Channel and BBC to shame. Thank you is grossly insufficient praise for you and your team. Long may you continue and thrive my friend. My deepest regards to you all.

[@HANKSANDY69420]

Sometimes those channels can be real sh*t, can't they? And the graphics don't compare.

[@grizbizusa]

Indeed, Mike, I second Peter's statement above. This is a masterpiece of storytelling and spectacular graphical presentation!

[@calebmitchell6870]

Call it 100%

[@austinreed5805]

A ship that size going down in less than 15 minutes is horrifying, let alone in one of the worst ways possible by immediately capsizing.

[@christopherrosindale3175]

The Storstad also lies beneath the surface, having fallen victim to torpedoes and gunfire from the U 62 on March 8th, 1917, 45 nautical miles SW of Fastnet Rock. The SS Montrose ended her life as an Admiralty block ship in WW1. Intended to be scuttled at Dover, she broke her moorings in a storm, and was wrecked on the Goodwin Sands in December 1914. There have been reports over the years since that she has been seen as a ghost ship, hauntingly re-enacting her loss on stormy evenings on the Goodwin Sands.

[@sharonellis8776]

This was another sad tragic story. Only 2 years after the loss of Titanic. RIP all of those poor men, women, children xx

[@RiceReaper]

No, not gonna lie it brought a tear to my eye to learn that the captain was going back out on the lifeboats to save his passengers

[@senses70]

The best documentary I’ve seen so far about this disaster. Told with forensic details and human compassion. So beautifully edited that I was with those poor souls, trapped inside the Empress of Ireland and feeling the terror they must have felt, blind in the dark, in sideways corridor, engulfed by freezing water. Very emotional and enraged against all those series of unlucky circumstances that led to this terrible human tragedy. Thank you for reminding us about this sadly often forgotten sinking and most of all for honouring the memories of its victims.

[@anubispup4760]

I couldn't imagine being that captian, out in that fog, listening to all of the screams after I'd smashed into the side of the ship. The guilt, the horror, the panic of what to do.. I don't know that I'd be able to find the strength to go on living afterwards.

[@hollykacz1958]

Beautiful music and very excellently done. Almost as many people were killed in this tragedy as the Titanic but you never hear about it. I had never heard about it until I watched your video but I thank you so much. It is making me cry.

[@eagandereagander6471]

Me too! 😢

[@noonedude101]

As soon as I got to the part where the fog rolled in and the ship was brought to a stop, I was wondering why the watertight doors weren’t closed preemptively. I’m the captain of an airliner, and the instant that things start to become non standard, we begin preparing for a worst case scenario, and taking precautionary measures to mitigate what might happen next. I often tell my junior crew members, “Every decision we make and action we take has to keep in mind the worst case scenario. How will this affect us if we are in a field somewhere with smoke filling the cabin?” I know that a ship is an entirely different beast, but Cpt. Kendall could have alerted his crew to possible danger and had everyone ready. If they had missed in the end, everyone would have merely breathed a sigh of relief and gone back to their normal activities. But I say that with the benefit of the collective knowledge of hundreds of years of nautical experience. Fantastic video, as always. Lord hear us as we cry to thee, for those in peril on the sea.

[@randomlyentertaining8287]

I'm with you there. The moment it became crystal clear that we were not going to get out of their way, I would have immediately had the watertight doors closed, especially given that it took 3 minutes to close them in the best of conditions.

[@MLaak86]

Indeed, if you're going to stop your ship due to those circumstances (and, I presume, are worried about running aground too) then have those doors shut just in case.

[@redshirt49]

@@randomlyentertaining8287 It was literal seconds between, "oh, they're going to hit us" and the impact. The captain of the Empress hoped that Storstad would remain in place long enough for them to close the water-proof doors but the Storstad was pulled away immediately and the damage was so extensive and the water pressure so intense that any attempts to close the doors were fruitless, if they were attempted. This incident and others like it is why on modern cruise ships those doors are closed by default.

[@dominaevillae28]

@redshirt49 Recently, I watched a video on a channel of a cruise ship employee and they mentioned that normally the watertight doors are closed, but that day (can’t remember why) they were open for a brief time and he could go down a hallway that was normally not accessible from his location.

[@JerryFisher]

As usual, you've told a story that not only is about the ship, but the souls aboard her. And you've conveyed a small echo of the utter heartbreak that followed the loss of the Empress of Ireland and the people who were aboard. If tears are the ultimate compliment, consider yourself very well complimented Mr. Brady. Thank you.

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Thankyou so much Jerry, this is the only video I've made where I was getting choked up during editing!

[@CJCody2006]

The big flaw in her design was the insane size of her boiler rooms, situated in two compartments which were both penetrated by Storstads bow. Combined these two compartments occupied one third of the ships hull, so allowing unchecked flooding in such a large space doomed her to drop like a rock

[@taraswertelecki3786]

For that to happen, those boiler rooms must have had a common bulkhead. If they had been sub-divided and separated, this might not have happened. However, the collision likely broke her keel, there would have been nothing the crew could have done to prevent those compartments from flooding.

[@olympicnut]

The watertight doors were also manually controlled. But all of this is in hindsight.

[@randomrazr]

@@taraswertelecki3786 if watertight doors were all closed before impact. would that have saved the empress

[@oriontaylor]

Much like a destroyer in either of the two World Wars being hit in the machinery spaces by a torpedo, the Empress was hit in the worst possible place that was virtually unsurvivable, particularly if the impression that the inquiry gathered was correct (that Storstad probably collided right at the bulkhead dividing the boiler rooms, demolishing it).

[@jackthorton10]

Luck is a funny thing eh?

[@AmyAnnLand]

Wow, thank you for highlighting the heroic efforts that took place on board. They need to be recognized and not forgotten. Rest in peace to all those souls lost. Such a terrible tragedy.

[@jonrb86]

Mike is a brilliant storyteller. I could listen to him all day long.

[@lemonacidrounds7293]

Especially when he's telling the story of famous people on board and their stories! Fascinating stuff.

[@chris-hz2wd]

That has got to be one of the most terrifying nightmarish ship disasters I’ve ever learned about. Horrendous, I couldn’t imagine what those people suffered, a remarkable film, bravo to Mike and the team for bringing this story to life and making me emotional

[@chris-nw8tz]

Same name

[@ransome51]

This was brilliantly done. Thanks. In 1957, after my family moved to Canada, they had a survivor of the Canadian Staff Band at the SA Corps I was a member of then (age 13). I remember him talking about being in the water and hanging onto some floating debris before being rescued. He had been a drummer in the Staff Band.

[@i_am_ava]

Oh wow I live 40min from the st Lawrence river and used to swim in it all the time when I was a kid! Never heard about this ship… glad I found this video!

[@tina8palmer]

I'm so glad I discovered this channel. Since the Titan submersible implosion I've been watching everything Titanic. I never thought of all these other ships and their tragedies. Great history and great graphics and storytelling of Oceanliner Designs. Awesome!

[@unchainyourbrain3312]

Same here. Since the implosion I've watched so many videos regarding the mysteries of the ocean and ships that disappeared.

[@lovetobe6118]

You can get a lot of understanding of studying various ship sinkings. It h lps you better understanding people's mindset and beliefs like the SS Arctic

[@jekabssaulitis817]

aye feel you, two weeks and im so much into all those ships now.

[@sincerestrelic5877]

I think there are many of us with this exact same mindset. I couldn’t give a shit before about ocean liners. Now I’m addicted to this style of video 😂

[@2cool2bhot89]

so i'm not the only one who's recently become obsessed with everything ship related because of the submersible? it's funny because these things never interested me as a child. now i'm obsessed!! i've learned so many things about boats and the Titanic in the past couple weeks i would've never known before.

[@allamericantravels]

The only way I can describe this video is “epic.” Mike, this video looks like something produced by a major studio, but with heart. Your story telling, coupled with the visuals, music and facts make this video an absolute masterpiece. Hopefully your video will reach an unprecedented amount of views so the people who went through this tragedy will someday be remembered on a level equal to The Titanic and Lusitania.

[@randomrazr]

did he animate all this

[@allamericantravels]

@@randomrazr I believe he has someone that does it for him.

[@salnaturile8653]

...and yet the largest single loss of life at sea (The Wilhelm Gustloff) remains comparatively unknown to this day, which is strange to say the least.

[@randomrazr]

@@salnaturile8653 thats cause it sank during war time. biggest loss yes, but it was jsut another causalty along with hundreds of other ships

[@salnaturile8653]

@@randomrazr - 5 or 6 times the number of Titanic victims were lost on the WG, yet a majority of people never heard about it. War-time or not that's unusual I'd say. Perhaps it didn't fit the narrative the victors were trying to portray because it was a war-crime against non-combatants?

[@Shadooe]

As a Canadian, and Salvationist who played in my local Citadel Corp band, it's always touching and appreciated when this disaster is brought to greater public attention. Well done.

[@audengriffiths9841]

The first 3 minutes aka the introduction, where more terrifying then any horror movie I can think of. Just the screams and…you do such a good job of story telling.

[@Iamedsmum]

I cannot recall when last I saw so moving a programme. Until 9.00p.m. I knew not of the The Empress of Ireland or of her fate but now, due entirely to your incredibly moving film, I shall think often of the ship that was forgotten. May God be holding close the 1012 souls lost that night. Mr Brady, Thank You for telling an unknowing world of this tragic event.

[@gregsbiplays9899]

It's good to see an often overlooked tragedy be brought into the spotlight. May those who died rest in peace.

[@Soulkeeper1]

This video is a masterpiece. I've known about this disaster for years, but this documentary really explains everything clearly and respectfully. Mike you have a gift and a future in voice overs or broadcasting in general. Keep up the great work.

[@amsodoneworkingnow1978]

As a long time Salvationist I was aware of the loss of the empress of ireland.this is an amazing teaching on this loss

[@louisnewton8042]

I watched the 14 minute animation before seeing this. That was well done but this full version is many times more frightening and deeply affecting. I only knew the barest outlines of the disaster before and that seems remiss of me. Thank you for giving the Empress and everyone involved a heart-felt memorial.

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Thanks so much for watching Louis :)

[@ErnieJJr1476er]

Empress no more, but Noah's Spirit with them.

[@Cake41579]

Your ability to convey such a tragedy to someone with quite limited understanding of how a ship is designed and a lack of general maritime knowledge is something that i can only explain as majestic. I’ve watched many, many of your videos but this one, sir, is a masterpiece if I say so myself. It felt as though I was right there experiencing it myself, first hand. Good job buddy. The music, narration, animation and the content in general was simply perfect. I look forward to more masterpieces from this channel. You have always been very good st creating these types of videos but you are getting really good

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Thanks so much for watching, Casey!

[@hollykacz1958]

Mike, I learned about this, and I have never heard of the Empress of Ireland, and it was so sad that it was in the St. Lawrence River, so close to shore, but it just sank, and all those people passed away. Most people know about the Titanic, but I have never heard of the Empress of Ireland and I thank you for telling us about her. So tragic!!

[@AUCEDELAMMAS]

I don't cry much, but this documentary made me cry my eyes out. Excellent work. Y'all rock. ❤️❤️❤️

[@gothicthorn3]

Damn, this scenario was far worse than the rather calm sinking of the Titanic. Worse than the foundering of Lusitania even. I had read about this, but never realised the true extend of the disaster and death it brought. I truly shuddered at the thought of what this might have been like. Awesome job dude.

[@killme5630]

honestly after seeing so many ship wrecks, i'll always be surprised by how calm and graceful the titanic was. it went out in music. many ships need only less than 30 minutes, but titanic, being older, still held on. i'm surprised

[@marcdennis6374]

Thanks, Mike for an incredible video. My wife and I have approximately seven dives on the Empress. Definitely not for the timid. Absolutely frigid water even in early September (35 to 38 F). On our second series of dives the visibility was only approximately four feet. It was incredible diving on a wreck that is so filled with tragic history. The worst maritime disaster in Canada's history and so few Canadians know about it. Could not help saying a prayer for the victims while diving the wreck. May all their souls rest in peace.

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Amazing! I'd be terrified to dive I think, kudos and congrats to you and your wife!

[@wendybutler1681]

Thank you for your respect and reverence for those who went down with the ship. But then, how could a person not give respects when visiting a gravesite tho I'm sure many do. Anyhoo, thanks.

[@tylerblalack6684]

"May you all rest in peace, as I use your resting place as a tourist destination"

[@ghostcat5303]

​@@tylerblalack6684hope you've never walked through a cemetery mate

[@tylerpemberton6873]

Been at the hospital this week with a family member. Cnt get on my sports betting sites inside the hospital , i have to walk outside and connect to my hotels wifi to put in my picks to pass the time. Ima huge history buff, idk how i came across this channel but im glad i did. Been binge watching. Absolutely amazing job. Better than tv!

[@4sl648]

You are a great storyteller. I was unaware of the tragic loss of life or the story of the wreck. Its within 400 miles of my residence in the US. Rowald Ferguson the wireless operator was indeed a hero.

[@Chord_]

42:20 and 51:10 For me, these are the two most haunting scenes. To the former, Mike's narration of Kendall attempting to have the ship run full ahead coupled with the imagery of the great ship listing so severely, underscores just how desperate and hopeless that situation, and that specific command, were. She was already gone, only becoming more entwined with the river that would be her tomb. To the latter, the sheer horror faced by those people trying to climb their way out of the portholes in the ship's last moments is inconceivable to me. Being so close to survival, only to also see the ever encroaching waves getting closer and closer, if only the porthole was just *that much* bigger? ...It's hell. That's the only way to describe it. Equally, those people standing on the side of the ship, trying and failing to help others out of the portholes, it must have been torture not being able to do anything about it. Despite me lingering on some of the more melancholic aspects of this documentary, that's only part of what makes this documentary so special. It highlights not just the splendor of the Empress of Ireland, but the shining lights that were aboard her, the people that made her shine that much more brilliantly. It's a documentary handled with reverence and tact, something that is increasingly hard to come by. Well done.

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Thanks so much Chord! Jack, our animator, did such a superb job with his shots. I have so many favourites from this documentary - the one you mentioned at 42:20 is an absolute favourite of mine too!

[@darthdevious]

A simply fantastic video, Mike. It is truly sad that the Empress does not get as much recognition as Lusitania or Titanic. I have seen a few documentaries on her, and this was one of the best. You keep improving and will one day rival the National Geographic.

[@neonnoodle1169]

I think he already has

[@dogcarman]

He already does. ❤

[@user-uo4ro8jo4i]

He is already above them. The only thing National Geographic talks about these days is their own opinion.

[@davidthomas4489]

I had never heard of this terrible tragedy. Thank you for sharing it. It is so sad to see the loss of life because of bad weather that put two ships in the wrong place at the wrong time. Truly heartbreaking.😢

[@partsbenttoys]

thank you for bringing this piece of history to light. it would so easily be buried beneath the events of world war and forgotten by time. truly appreciate what you've done.

[@crs2385]

What a horrible ordeal those poor souls had to endure. R.I.P. to all those who lost their lives on the Empress of Ireland. A very fitting tribute Mike. Well done 👏

[@eviehammond9509]

Your videos are comparable to a Hollywood production, yet you convey the upmost respect & compassion for the victims lost in each tragedy you cover. There's a fine line between telling a story & sensationalizing it for personal benefit yet post after post you do it effortlessly. Thank you for the time, effort & creativity you put into your videos. Its greatly appreciated, Mike!!❤

[@John-gy1cr]

Could not agree more!

[@hamie7624]

Upmost?

[@THE_AETHER]

I've been putting off watching this for a while due to it's length, though finally watching it, it's definitely worth it. I can't even begin to imagine what it would have been like to be in the dark corridors just before she capsized. This video hurt in a way I never expected. More people need to know about what happened on that night, 110 years ago. It feels disrespectful for it to have gone into obscurity just because of the Great War. Those 1,012 lives will not be forgotten.

[@reddeaddude2187]

I'm always amazed by how beautiful these liners are, there's a lost elegance to the early 20th century designs that we just don't see anymore. The closest I've been to having the pleasure of being out at sea was when I went whale watching, just off the coast of my beloved Oregon. There's always been something about the ocean that's fascinated me since I was a boy. Thank you for this thoroughly researched documentary about one of the most largely forgotten tragedies on the waves.

[@maridaterri]

You have outdone yourself. This is truly world class work. The CGI really helps tell the story. It must have been a huge job. Thank you.

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Thanks so much for that and thanks for watching :)

[@Mark-in8ju]

Have you followed the SS Arctic disaster? That one is even more heartbreaking. No woman or child survived mainly because of the actions of dishonorable men on board. Wow! That is the first I have heard of that sinking. Multiple errors in judgement were made by the command of the SS Arctic.

[@jayjaycastelli9178]

As a salvationist myself, and also a Canadian, this tragedy continues to be talked about and continues to hit home for many of us. The Canadian staff band of today continues to pay tribute to those who were lost in this tragedy (as we should). Thank you for including their story in this video.

[@EBWgreen]

Your narration. The visuals. The audio. So beautifully woven together. Had me weeping for these people. For the lives that were stolen from them, and the horror that they must've faced.

[@The_Reckoning_Is_Here]

I’m blown away - I’ve never heard of this. This story needs to be heard 💯

[@20thCenturyManTrad]

God rest these poor souls. My Dad reminded me of the tragedy of the Empress and I thank God he did. Such a terrible tragedy forgotten by history. Thank you Mike, for doing this ship the right kind of goodbye and tribute.

[@BoomerG21]

It's haunting to believe that this ship is truly a headstone with countless people still trapped inside. Sounds like a truly horrific event.

[@Ihatereadingclass]

Has anyone dived down there ??

[@boogts]

@@Ihatereadingclass Did you watch the video...?

[@glamdolly30]

This was a truly impressive piece of storytelling, and a fitting tribute to the victims. Bravo Mike, great job!

[@timmellor2599]

In this moving story, you say that there wasn't time for heroics, but some people clearly managed to rise to the occasion. I refer to the Senior Radio Officer Ferguson, who calmly and intelligently radioed the details and then got off the ship; but he hadn't finished because he immediately started doing his job on the other ship. All with what must have been a cool head in a crisis. Then, as you said, there were the little acts of kindness and self-sacrifice like the Commissioner of the SA who gave away a life vest to be with his family.

[@nonsensicalnauticalramblin3994]

This is your greatest video yet, and it’s a great topic. Empress of Ireland is forgotten, despite her passengers having a lower rate of survival compared to that of the Titanic. Her demise is tragic, and so is the tremendous loss of life. Thank you for covering this as seriously as you could. Also, if you haven’t already, I’d suggest you read Thunderstruck by Erik Larson. It is less about the ships involved,and more about Mr. Crippen, His Life, Why he did the murder, and how radio helped him get captured on his near escape to Canada.

[@annabellelee4535]

Did you ever hear of the DNA analysis that was done on the body they claim was his wife Cora? It wasn't her.

[@leopardone2386]

The part where the Empress is leaving has my mind running wild. To imagine the farewells, the calling out over the hissing of steam, sound of the sea birds. The trundling of feet on deck and smell of lit tobacco in the air. The scene would have been surreal. You capture these moments eloquently. It keeps the memory of those lost alive. Thank you for providing me this experience. Stellar work. Cheers.

[@John-gy1cr]

I just spent the last hour at work with my jaw dropped watching this. Man this is one memorable video.

[@CMDR_Nef]

I just wanted to leave a comment saying I'd seen your channel pop up from time to time in my suggestions, most recently after the Titan submersible failure. I've watched two of your videos now both this and Titanic's rescues ship The Carpathia. My hats off to you Sir, truly. Documentaries have been a favorite genre of mine since I was little and your style stands above. No purple prose, or attempts to overdramatize an already dramatic situation. You present the facts but lay them out in such away as to humanize the story and remind us that these people lived through something we all hope to never see. I really enjoy your animations and sound editing. Again they allow us to visualize what may have happened without resorting to cliché. This video was the first I'd heard of the Empress of Ireland, I'm glad it was your channel that introduced me to her.

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Thanks so much for the lovely feedback!

[@TIMEJUSTKILLS]

I’ve done some research on ocean liner disasters, and I have to say the Empress is the most tragic I know of. Absolutely incredible work, Mike. Keep up the amazing work ♾️

[@Joannes808]

Look up the SS Arctic of 1854: disaster at sea can always take a much darker turn. As tragic as this wreck was in denying the chance of much of the best of humanity to emerge with the speed it took, it was mercifully able to deny much of the worst as well.

[@legioner9]

@TIMEJUSTKILLS: Well, the ship Wilhelm Gustloff sinking by a russian U-boat in WW2 was waaay more horrific than anything else. There were thousands of women and children dead when it sunk.

[@TIMEJUSTKILLS]

@@Joannes808 i’ll definitely have to look this up, i appreciate the information

[@arongooch]

C'mon people, how about throwing a few more likes for this masterpiece. Mike's done an extraordinary job with this. Absolutely amazing video and brought a tear to the eye by the ending.

[@trapdoorguppi]

I’m so glad you mentioned the Canadian pacific railway. My great grandfather came from Ukraine and became an engineer for this company. He fled the Bolsheviks as he was related to the tsar. I know that has nothing to do with the ship but I just wanted to say thank you for reaching me something new an making me thinking of my great gido

[@realwonone]

Now a lot of these stories I've heard had never really had an effect on me, but this one. this is the first time I have felt so emotional and managed to shed tears on a story about a sinking.. may all those innocent souls forever rest in peace.

[@teleboxyt7070]

I felt my heart sink many times while watching this documentary. This sinking is tragic in a lot of ways but yet people forget this tragedy. Let us remember the 1,012 people 109 years ago that tragically passed that night. Absolutely incredible Mike.

[@sherryangela7455]

I truly hope that the passengers that were asleep in their rooms, in the area where they were hit did not feel any pain! Such a horrible tragedy

[@ashleykerr6528]

This was so well done. This documentary was chilling in so many ways. Rest in peace those who lost their lives.

[@SeaTravelr123]

OMG my Friend!!! What a riveting tale you told. The graphics were like being there. The loss, the tragedy, the humanity. You’re a fabulous story teller, in the best of the old style. Thanks for your hard work it’s nearly the anniversary. May those souls Rest In Peace. Cheers mate.

[@dianeaustin2414]

I agree.

[@Flutterwhat]

In the ocean's vast expanse, a tragedy unseen, In the year of '14, a tale of the Empress serene. She sailed with grace and grandeur, a marvel of her time, But destiny's cruel hand would soon reveal its chime. The Empress of Ireland, majestic in her reign, Carried hopes and dreams, souls bound for distant terrain. Through the misty St. Lawrence, she plied her noble way, A vessel strong and valiant, on her fateful voyage day. A collision unforeseen, a piercing rending sound, The Empress, struck and wounded, her fate forever bound. A colossus stood before her, an iron behemoth in the night, The Storstad, a silent force, bringing darkness, pain, and blight. In the darkness and confusion, chaos reigned supreme, Passengers and crew awakened from a peaceful dream. Lifeboats launched in haste, cries echoed through the air, But tragedy had come unbidden, death's grasp was near and unfair. Oh, the sorrow of that night, as lives were torn apart, Families separated, forever etched within each heart. Amidst the frigid waters, heroes rose and fell, Struggling 'gainst the current, a dance with fate and hell. The Empress, once resplendent, now succumbed to her fate, Descending to the depths, a solemn and watery weight. Over a thousand souls were lost, their voices unheard, Their dreams, their joys, extinguished, like a forgotten word. Yet in the face of darkness, courage still held its sway, In the aftermath of sorrow, hope would find its way. The world came together, compassion guiding the tide, To heal the wounded spirits, to honor those who died. So let us remember, in each passing of the years, The Empress of Ireland, and the anguish born from tears. May her legacy endure, a testament profound, To the strength of human spirit, when tragedy is found. In the annals of history, her name forever rings, The Empress of Ireland, in our collective hearts she sings. Though lost beneath the waves, her story still remains, A solemn reminder of life's fragile, transient strains.

[@user-uo4ro8jo4i]

Did you write that?

[@TheSilmarillian]

Greetings from a fellow wordsmith nice work indeed, remote rural off grid NSW here.

[@sandraoettle1476]

Your story telling, production value and research is top notch. Thank you for all your hard work in the telling of this tragic tale.

[@JohnLemieux]

These animations are incredible.

[@emmanuelfrechette5498]

I’m from Montreal, but I spent a lot of time in Rimouski. There is actually a museum/memorial for the Empress of Ireland there.Thank you for bringing to light this forgotten tragedy!

[@swaitsysg4415]

As a seafarer myself, I have the utmost respect for you for how you've told this hugely tragic story. God bless mate.

[@pjh1776]

Thank you for giving these tragedies the respect they deserve and illumination of their history for others to learn about.

[@Ray-dt7wo]

Of all the shipwreck/tragedy Documentaries I have never seen one done with such compassion, I am heartbroken for the souls lost .

[@phaasch]

Although very familiar with the Empress' story already, I shed tears watching this. Mike, you and your team have produced the definitive recounting of this heartbreaking tragedy; the human cost- hopes and dreams snuffed out, from comfort to death within minutes. The graphics are a visual masterpiece - the night scenes have an ethereal beauty which must have been very challenging to render. Many congratulations, and many many thanks for giving this event the recognition it has always deserved. RIP all those who perished, and all those who were left behind, to somehow rebuild their lives.

[@OceanlinerDesigns]

Thanks so much Mark!

[@kirstyb90]

My goodness, I wasn't expecting to be so emotional about this one but I am bawling. Your storytelling is unmatched, Mike. Bravo.

[@beckyfrazee1508]

Thank you for this excellent documentary! I had never heard of this tragedy.