Disaster at Sea! The Sinking of the Titanic

by Celestia McPark, age 8

The Titanic is one of the most famous shipwrecks in history. It was thought to be an “unsinkable” cruise ship. The ship set sail on May 31, 1911, and had national and international significance in many ways.

The Titanic looked luxurious and was very large, spanning approximately 882 feet and nine inches long and 92 feet and six inches wide. First class had a luxurious two grand stairs, which had access to a restaurant and a cafe. Second class had a library, a smoke room, and a promenade. Lastly, third class had a lounge area, a smoke room, and an open space for socializing. The captain of the ship was Edward J. Smith.

Tragedy struck on April 15, 1912 when the ship hit an iceberg in the North Atlantic Ocean. The water temperature was 28 degrees Fahrenheit, conditions so low that it could cause frostbite. Many of the people who swam died from the cold temperature.

The Titanic was not well prepared, as it only had 3,500 life jackets, which was not enough for the crew on board. Some survivors still passed away after the shipwreck because they developed hypothermia from the cold water.

The Titanic was an incredible ship for its time, its amenities and size were some of its greatest features. Even after decades, the Titanic serves as a powerful reminder of the safety and careful planning that is required before travel at sea.

[Sources: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; Titanic Connections]