The unchristianlike crew

The unchristianlike crew

by | Feb 1, 2019 | Passage East

Following the death of their captain, the men of the barquentine Herbina were described as an “unchristianlike” crew.  The judgement was passed at an inquiry while the ship lay at anchor off Passage East in February 1892. But was it fair, or even accurate?  I will...
Three Terrible Days, Jan 1862

Three Terrible Days, Jan 1862

by | Jan 25, 2019 | Ballymacaw, Guest Posts, Shipwrecks

Over a three-day period of January 22nd, 23rd and 24th 1862, a large number of shipwrecks and loss of life took place in Waterford Harbour and along the County Waterford coastline, making it probably one of the most catastrophic events in the maritime history of...
The ancient Ballinlaw Ferry

The ancient Ballinlaw Ferry

by | Jan 17, 2019 | Ferry lore, River Lore

Introduction My blog this week is different to the norm.  Firstly it’s a long form article, almost three times the length of my usual stories.  I had toyed with the idea of breaking it up, but decided to let it run.  Secondly I have had a significant amount of help...
Passage East “invasion” of 1937

Passage East “invasion” of 1937

by | Jan 11, 2019 | Waterford History

Throughout Wednesday 6th January 1937 and into the night, groups of men began arriving in the small village of Passage East in Waterford harbour.  Some arrived in buses, others by car and as the day went on into evening their numbers swelled to an estimated 500. ...
Alfred D Snow – Prelude to a disaster

Alfred D Snow – Prelude to a disaster

by | Jan 4, 2019 | Shipwrecks

The story of the loss of the American sailing ship Alfred D Snow is well known in Waterford harbour.  Following a ferocious south easterly storm overnight the American sailing ship was seen at 9 am inside the Hook with much of her sail taken off and working upriver. ...