The SS Atlantic Heritage Park Society will be celebrating the annual Blessing of the Boats on Sunday, July 31, July 22nd at 2:30 pm. at the SS Atlantic Heritage Park, 180 Sandy Cove Rd., Terence Bay. Rev. Margaret Sagar will be officiating at the ecumenical memorial service, with Rev. Alan Sagar also participating. A community choir led by Freeman Dryden will provide the music. A number of dignitaries will be present at this event. To date MLA Bill Estabrooks and Mayor Peter Kelly have confirmed their attendance.
Every year, a large crowd participates in the service around the SS Atlantic Monument. As many as 50 boats might also be spotted on the water in the Terence Bay observing the service. This event has been a community tradition for over 30 years.
The SS Atlantic was a passenger liner ferrying travelers and immigrants from Europe to North America. In 1873 the vessel sank off the coast of Lower Prospect, taking the lives of over 500 passengers and crew. In the SS Atlantic Park is the gravesite of 277 passengers, an Interpretation Centre telling the history of the event, and a craft shop and refreshments for the convenience of the visitors.
Following the service will be a reception at the Terence Bay Fire Hall.
