Seafarers Memorial in Wick, Scotland: Honoring Lives Lost at Sea

The Seafarers Memorial at the Braehead in Wick stands as a poignant reminder of the dangers of the sea, commemorating all those lost in the WK vessel registration area. The monument, unveiled in May 2023, was made possible by the overwhelming support of local businesses and the community. The Seafarers Memorial Group raised over £100,000 for the sculpture, which was created by Alan Beattie Herriot. Willie Watt, chairman of the group, expressed gratitude for the generosity and highlighted the importance of honoring those who never returned from the sea.

Mr. Watt shared insights into the fundraising efforts and the design process of the memorial during a meeting at the Nethercliffe Hotel. The statue, symbolizing how “the sea gives with one hand and takes away with the other,” serves as a tribute to all seafarers lost at sea in the WK registration area. The group aims to raise awareness about the risks of the sea and ensure future generations remember the sacrifices made by those who ventured into its waters.

The memorial, which features a five-meter statue on a stainless-steel column, is surrounded by benches and lecterns, providing a space for reflection and remembrance. Local materials were used in the construction, with Caithness stone slabs engraved with details of the Black Saturday disaster. The Seafarers Memorial Group plans to install lighting at the site and potentially create a pamphlet highlighting the harbors covered by the memorial. The monument has become a focal point for various events, including National Fishing Remembrance Day and Remembrance Sunday ceremonies, bringing the community together to honor the maritime heritage of the region.

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