Customer Reviews

Into the Maelstrom: The Wreck of HMHS Rohilla

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His Majesty's Hospital Ship Rohilla is Whitby's most famous shipwreck and this is her story. In October 1914, the Rohilla sailed from Leith on a mercy mission to Dunkirk for a rendezvous with wounded and dying soldiers. That particular appointment with death, however, was soon changed for another when, at 0400 hrs on 29 October 1914 the Rohilla ran hard aground on Saltwick Nab and was lost. This tragic accident happened in the midst of a fierce gale which lasted for several days during which time 85 people lost their lives. It says much for the gallant RNLI that 6 Lifeboats were used in these most treacherous circumstances and between them rescued 146 people. This is especially so when one learns that the Lifeboat John Fielden was damaged each time she set out and was eventually abandoned in an irreparable condition. No fewer that 3 RNLI Gold Medals and 4 Silver Medals were subsequently awarded.

"Into the Maelstrom - The Wreck of HMHS Rohilla" contains all, the information anyone with an interest in this ship would wish to know. The book measures a little over 9" x 6" and is well thought out with chapters on Allied Hospital Ships of WW1, the Barnoldswick connection, the loss of the ship itself, the Lifeboat Henry Vernon, inquest proceedings, funerals, an epilogue, memoriam and finally exploring the wreck. The book is then neatly finished off with Appendices listing the names of all survivors, those who cared for them, the Lifeboats involved, and a final section under the general subject of Hospital Ships containing no fewer than 21 historic photographs of good and great ships from yesterday.

Altogether a very competent piece of work and one which is of immense interest to everyone with a knowledge of this particular vessel - especially those who are able to visit the wreck today.

NM