Think & Drink @ WMM: Tragedy of the Phoenix

Jump overboard into the icy November waters of Lake Michigan or remain on board to die a fiery death.

In the last leg of the journey from Manitowoc to Sheboygan,  the boilers on Phoenix overheated, and the ship caught fire four miles from the shore. Only two lifeboats were available for the approximately 215 passengers and crew.

Lecturer Mary Risseeuw examines the impact of this tragedy on the lives of the survivors—and on Dutch emigration to Wisconsin. She explores the significance of letters written to the Netherlands and their impact on emigration, and the discovery of letters written within days after the event concerning David Blish and his sacrifice to save children. Risseeux also addresses how the legacy of this story survived, and its impact on current generations.

Admission is free. Limited bar opens at 6. Program begins at 6:30. Registration to see a livestream also available.

Find details and link to livestream.