Ken McQuhae speaking at the memorial unveiling to the crew of the Ullswater at Saleen, Gorey. Pic: Christy Farrell

The nearest strip of land to the spot off the North Wexford coast where the Brig Ullswater floundered with a loss of 10 lives, 148 years ago, was enshrined as a place of remembrance as a commemorative plaque was unveiled at the secluded Saleen Beach in a simple, but emotional ceremony held there last Tuesday afternoon.

The idea for commemoration came from Ken McQuhae, who travelled from Oregan in the United States, and planned the ceremony with Gorey Municipal District Council.

Mr McQuhae unveiled the plaque and laid a wreath. He also gave a brief outline of the shipping disaster and revealed details about the crew, who are buried at nearby Kilgorman Cemetery.

Mr McQuhae was accompanied by his wife, Diana, and his cousins Don Bremner and Kathy Graham, who travelled from England.

James Duff, Second Mate, on the Ullswater, one of the crew of 10 who lost their lives, was their great-grandfather.

The visitors were presented with a framed painting of the Ullswater, by marine artist Brian Cleare, and commissioned by Gorey Municipal District Council.