On this day (7th August) WW1 Shipwreckollections

SS Biruta (1889-1918)

SS Biruta was a defensively-armed British merchant ship built in 1889 by Palmer’s Shipbuilding & Iron Co. Ltd., Newcastle-upon-Tyne. At the time of her loss in 1918, the steamer of 1,733 tonnes was owned by the British Government, London.

On 7 August 1918, whilst travelling on voyage, the Biruta was sunk by torpedo or mine, eight miles NW from Calais, France.

Sadly, 12 lives were lost as a result.

The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society has offered assistance for fishermen and mariners in need since 1839. The maritime charity provides help for mariners, retired seafarers and their dependants, through financial help including welfare grants, as well as assistance and support.

Photo credit: wrecksite.eu