Lot #437: " The Queen's Birthday Disaster May 24, 1881" Framed Engraving

This framed engraving depicts "The Queen's Birthday Disaster" in London, Ontario, which occurred on May 24, 1881. It remains one of the deadliest maritime accidents in Canadian history. Here are the key facts about the tragedy:The IncidentThe Vessel: The Victoria, a double-decked stern-wheel pleasure steamer, was severely overcrowded. While built for roughly 400 passengers, it was carrying between 600 and 800 people celebrating the Victoria Day holiday.The Cause: As the ship navigated the Thames River, it began to rock. When passengers rushed to one side to watch a passing rowing race, the excessive weight caused the supporting stanchions to give way. The heavy boiler broke loose, crashing through the side and causing the upper deck to collapse onto the passengers below.Location: The disaster happened at Cove Bridge (now known as Blackfriars) on the Thames River. Dimensions: 17 1/2" x 12 1/2" Pickup category timeslot {A}