Co-Sponsored by Merchant’s House Museum

On May 1, 1915, as the First World War raged in Europe, the liner Lusitania sets sail for its final journey from the old Pier 54, once part of the original Chelsea Piers complex. A few days later tragedy would strike. What would the passengers of these great liners have seen and experienced departing from the Hudson waterfront? Today, it’s reborn as a beautiful site for recreation after decades of decay, but over a hundred years ago, the Hudson River waterfront was the place where New York cemented its place as one of the world’s greatest cities. Cargo, commuters, and international passengers jostled with dock workers, freighters, ferries, railroads, and giant ocean liners. Join us for a walking tour along the waterfront to explore how this dynamic waterfront worked in the age of the Titanic, Lusitania, and other floating palaces that once docked there.

About Your Guide:

William Roka is the Director of Programs at Village Preservation. He is also an independent historian and writer. His research has focused on the history of travel and ocean liners in the early 20th century and has presented at conferences in the United Kingdom, Argentina, Australia, and across the United States.