A photograph of survivors of one the worst disasters in Irish maritime history has been recreated in Derry to mark the centenary of the tragedy.
Members of the public joined victims' descendants yesterday to re-enact a meal prepared for passengers of the SS Laurentic on January 25 1917.
The White Star liner struck two mines laid by a German U-boat at the mouth of Lough Swilly off the coast of Donegal.
More than 350 people died, many from exposure, as the vessel sank within an hour.
The Laurentic had been on its way to Nova Scotia carrying millions of pounds worth of gold ingots to pay for war munitions.
People in Counties Derry and Donegal came together to help the 121 survivors, who were brought to Derry’s Guildhall for a civic reception where each was presented with a ten-shilling note and packet of cigarettes.
A series of events are taking place to mark the centenary, including an exhibition at Derry’s Tower Museum featuring many recovered artefacts including portholes, the ship's bell and the knocker from the captain’s cabin. It will run until June.
A photograph of the Guildhall reception was also recreated yesterday, with a meal served by caterers in period uniforms.
Derry mayor Hilary McClintock joined Church of Ireland Bishop of Derry and Raphoe Ken Good, members of the Irish and British navies and relatives of victims at a commemoration service and lunch.
A remembrance service will also take place today at St Mura’s graveyard in Fahan, Co Donegal where many of the dead are buried.
A flotilla of boats will travel from Buncrana to the scene of the tragedy tomorrow to lay floral tributes.
