In the early hours of 21 July 1881, 58 Haaf fishermen were killed by an unexpected summer storm off the coast of Yell, Shetland. 36 of the men were from Gloup, others from North Mainland, Unst & Scalloway. Ten boats were lost, mostly traditional sixareens. Only 7 bodies were ever recovered and the tragedy left 34 widows and 85 orphans. In 1981, a hundred years after the event, a memorial was erected to commemorate the victims, depicting one of the many islanders who had gathered on the shore at first light, scanning the sea in hope. There is an annual service of remembrance and last Sunday it was led by Michele Simms, Parish Development Worker, together with The Revd Andy Elliot, Episcopal Church Curate. Michele said "It was a special time we shared in remembrance together, with several descendants of the lost men in attendance. We are grateful to all who came and who donated to The Fishermen's Mission. £80 was collected."
Photos below:
