Work has started on the 1843 Fishing Disaster Garden of Reflection
Mourne’s Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has warmly welcomed the commencement of works on the 1843 Newcastle Fishing Disaster Garden of reflection, located at the South Promenade, Newcastle.
The memorial will honour the memory of the 73 fishermen who tragically lost their lives on 13 January 1843, in what remains the greatest maritime disaster to impact our local coastal communities.
Councillor Clarke said the beginning of construction is a deeply significant and emotional moment for the community, offering a place of reflection not only for those lost in 1843, but for all who have lost their lives at sea along our coastline, and for the families and dependents who were left to endure profound hardship and loss.
“This memorial garden is about remembrance, respect and compassion,” said Cllr Clarke. “It recognises the immense sacrifice made by those men, the dangers faced daily by fishing communities, and the enduring pain carried by families who lost loved ones at sea.”
Cllr Clarke recalled that in 2013, he ensured that Down District Council erected an interpretive plaque to mark the 170th anniversary of the disaster, commemorating the 73 lives lost in Newcastle, Annalong and across Mourne. He added: “It was always my intention to continue pursuing a more permanent and fitting memorial in recognition of this tremendous loss to our community.
“In 2023, I brought a motion to Newry Mourne and Down District Council calling for the creation of a memorial garden, to honour the lives lost in the 1843 fishing disaster.
“While the process to reach the construction stage has taken three years, he expressed relief and gratitude that work has now begun. I am delighted that works have finally commenced and that we are delivering a space worthy of those who were lost.
“I would also acknowledge the importance of partnership working, highlighting collaboration between the Council, the Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association, and the local community.
“This memorial garden will stand as a place of quiet reflection, honouring the 73 men lost in 1843 and the many others who have perished at sea from this locality.
“It will also recognise the resilience of the families and communities who carried on through immense hardship.
“The memorial garden will serve as a lasting tribute to Newcastle’s maritime heritage, ensuring that those lost are never forgotten and that future generations understand the human cost of life at sea.”
