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First World War (1914-1918)
The Halifax Explosion

In December 1917, a collision between the relief ship SS Imo and the munitions ship SS Mont Blanc in the port of Halifax led to a massive explosion that devastated the harbour and the city, killing thousands.

HMS Highflyer

The Royal Navy cruiser HMS Highflyer tried unsuccessfully to save the burning SS Mont Blanc on 6 December 1917.

With the Mont Blanc ablaze and abandoned by its crew, volunteers from Highflyer rowed to the Mont Blanc to offer assistance. With one exception, they perished when the Mont Blanc's cargo exploded. The explosion also damaged Highflyer, killing three and wounding 50 others. The inscription on the photograph refers to Highflyer's successful fight against a German commerce raider in 1914.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 19750148-058_2