German High Seas Fleet Sinks in Scapa Flow, Orkney.
2019 marks the 100th anniversary of one of the most momentous events in naval history, and it took place right here in Orkney. Come along to The Orkney Fossil and Heritage Centre and see our new interpretive floor map of Scapa Flow. The giant map shows you where the German High Seas Fleet, having surrendered at the end of WW1, was first interned and later deliberately sunk at the command of Admiral Ludwig von Reuter, right under the noses of the allies on 21st June 1919.
You can also trace the route taken by Commander Prien of U47 whose daring raid led to the sinking of HMS Royal Oak in October 1939 with huge loss of life. The Scapa Flow map is in the Barriers Room and here you can also learn about the construction of the massive concrete clad Churchill Barriers. These were built to defend the British naval ships in Scapa Flow following the sinking of the Royal Oak. In peacetime, these mighty structures have transformed everyday life on the islands of Burray and South Ronaldsay.
Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre is delighted to have received a funding grant awarded from the Heritage Lottery Fund to make this new display possible. We look forward to seeing you in Burray soon.