Exhibit of largest shipwreck in Canadian history hits WDM

SASKATOON – An exhibit of the largest shipwreck in Canadian history is currently on display at the Western Development Museum in Saskatoon.

The Empress of Ireland disappeared into the waters of the St. Lawrence River in Quebec on May 29, 1914 in 14 minutes.

The disaster, which claimed 1,012 lives, was overshadowed by the outbreak of the First World War.

The ship is of significance as it is estimated over 117,000 people travelled to Canada between 1906 and the time of her sinking.

Organizers of the cross-country tour are pleased to see so many interested in the exhibit.

“A lot of people don’t know about what happened with the Empress of Ireland, and actually a lot of people had family members immigrate to Canada on the (ship),” said Julie Jackson, a technician at WDM.

Documents at the exhibit include a list of passengers from the first trip to the time of the tragedy and organizers are hoping to connect with their descendants.

The exhibit is open until Sunday at 5 p.m.