Waterford: SS Formby and SS Coningbeg – All Hands Lost
Just before Christmas in 1917, the worst tragedy to befall Waterford in the 20th century happened when the steamships SS Formby and the SS Coningbeg were torpedoed off the Irish coast within two days of each other with all hands lost. Of the 83 people killed, 67 of them were from Waterford.
Both ships were operated by the Clyde Shipping Company and when they didn't show up at the appointed time, families of the crew gathered at the company’s offices looking for news. It wouldn't be until after Christmas that the tragic news of the sinking of the two ships was confirmed.
Location: Former Clyde Shipping Company offices, Waterford. 52°15'40.6"N 7°06'29.7"W
Image: Memorials to those lost on the SS Formby and SS Coningbeg on Waterford Quay
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