Titanic International Society members who attended our conventions in Boston in 2010 or in Belfast in 2011 will be delighted to learn that Una Reilly, chairman of the Belfast Titanic Society and a member of TIS, has been named a Member of the British Empire in the 2012 New Year’s Honours List by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The award recognizes her “services to Maritime and Industrial Heritage in Northern Ireland.”

In 1992, Una was a co-founder of the then-named Ulster Titanic Society, today the Belfast Titanic Society, and almost single-handedly helped to change Belfast residents’ attitude toward Titanic from one of indifference or embarrassment to one of great hometown pride.  As Una’s personal slogan put it, “What happened to her was a disaster. She was not.” The resulting groundswell of Titanic interest in her birthplace city provided a focal point and the impetus for the massive redevelopment of the former Harland & Wolff shipyards known as “Titanic Quarter,” which will be highlighted by the iconic “Titanic Belfast” Museum, opening in April 2012, which will tell the story of Titanic and the shipbuilding industry in Northern Ireland’s capital city.

The effort to recognize Una’s unique contributions was organized by Titanic historian Stephen Cameron, whom many of our members met in Belfast in 2011.

Titanic International Society president Charles Haas was one of many submitting letters supporting Una’s nomination for the award. He wrote, in part, ‘These projects became reality largely because of civic interest in history’s most famous ship, rekindled through the continuing efforts of Ms. Reilly. Their completion will make Belfast a renowned tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world. In a very real sense, Titanic will be the means by which Northern Ireland’s largest city will make its own journey into a bright future, proud of its history and manifesting the same “can-do” philosophy that is a hallmark of every one of Una Reilly’s efforts on behalf of her city, her country, and RMS Titanic.”

Regarding the award, Charlie added, “The trustees and members of Titanic International Society extend their heartiest congratulations to our dear friend Una for this well-deserved honor. Northern Ireland and Titanic could ask for no finer ambassador than Una. Our wonderful visit to Belfast in May 2011, and our convention in Boston in 2010 gave many of our members the opportunity to know Una and enjoy her friendship and warm hospitality. We are absolutely thrilled that Her Majesty has recognized her significant contributions to Titanic history, ensuring that the significant role of Titanic’s “home town” will be remembered in perpetuity, thanks to her energetic and passionate efforts.”

The first member of her family to be so honored by the monarch, Una will be entitled to place the initials “MBE” (Member of the British Empire) after her name. With family members proudly watching, she will receive her award from Her Majesty the Queen sometime within the next six months.