A Marvel of Modern Engineering.
Titanic under construction in Belfast.
Work is well underway on the RMS Titanic, which is being built at Harland and Wolff shipyard
in Belfast. Commissioned by the White Star Line, the giant vessel has been designed to carry
passengers across the Atlantic Ocean in both comfort and style. It is being constructed using
the most advanced techniques of our time and should be ready for launch in April 1912 from
Southampton to New York.
Firstly, the ship's keel was laid in March 1909. Thousands of workers assembled her frame,
cranes lifted steel plates into place and engineers reinforced the structures. After that, the
ship was tentatively launched in water and the interior fitting carefully began. Workers are
now installing everything from dining rooms to boilers. Later this year, the Titanic will undergo
testing at sea.
Excitement is building fast. Crowds gather daily to catch a glimpse of the ship, which
towers above the Belfast skyline. Children nearby have drawn pictures of her in school and
newspapers have published stories about her being as flawless as a precious floating string of
pearls. Surely, the Titanic will be the most talked-about ship in the world.
This project has already impacted Belfast - a city renowned for its quality shipbuilding -
by increasing employment in the area. Some of the employees are fathers. Some of the
employees are boys who are barely sixteen. But they all share one thing: the determination
to build something that would be remembered forever. The Titanic build has revitalised and
rejuvenated the area and has bought hope to families who were struggling economically.
Thomas Andrews (the ship's chief designer) has worked on the ship since the beginning said,
“This vessel represents everything we believe in- progress, safety and beauty." One shipyard
worker, who has helped with over 3000 rivets each day, explained, "She's part of us now. I
think about her even when I go home. We won't ever forget this." These voices show how
much pride there is behind every bolt and beam.
Could this be the beginning of a new age in sea travel? Naval engineers and marine experts
believe the Titanic is a triumph. Whilst some experts focus on her strength and safety, others
say her luxury rooms rival the best hotels in the world.
Perhaps one day, we may look back with admiration, love and pride. The Titanic is not just
another ship - it is expertly crafted and long-awaited. For now, she waits in the dock - silent
strong and sturdy | Chalk