The loss of the HMY Iolaire

On New Years Day in 1919 the ship HMY Iolaire, returning from the First World War, struck a rock and was wrecked on the Beasts of Holm, just miles from the shores of Stornoway. 201 men were lost- although the accident took place just yards from the shore, the darkness meant that many of them woud not have known in whch direction to swim.

Their families had been anxiously awaiting their return from the war. The shock was so profound that some who lost loved ones lost their ability to speak after the event. Many people alive today anecdotally talk about individuals in their village or community who struggled their entire lives to deal with the tragedy. The island ran out of coffins. 56 men were never discovered. The 'Melbost Bard' Murdo MacFarlane desribes toys they were bringing home for the children amongst the washed up victims. John MacDonald, from the village of Shader, was found with an engagement ring in his pocket.

The event changed the island profoundly. Most if not all families experienced loss. It remains one of the worst peacetime maritime disasters in Britain. In 1958 a memorial was erected at the site of the wreck, and research is ongoing.

More information on visiting the area can be found here.