Grandmother’s Heroic Escape from the Sinking Lusitania Revealed

UPDATE: A remarkable story surfaces today about May Barrett Keegan, an Irish grandmother who survived the devastating sinking of the Lusitania on May 7, 1915. As new details emerge, her harrowing escape highlights the chaos and bravery of that fateful day off the coast of Cork, Ireland.

Just as the Lusitania was struck by a torpedo from a German U-boat, May and her friend Kathleen McDonnell were enjoying lunch in the second-class saloon. Witnesses recall a “terrible explosion” at approximately 2:20 PM, triggering panic among passengers. May, who was unable to swim, faced a life-or-death decision as the ship began to sink.

May recalled the immediate rush of terrified passengers. “A terrible explosion shook the ship,” she said. In the chaos, a fellow passenger named Joe assisted them by securing life belts. However, May’s belt was mistakenly placed on her backward. When Kitty decided to jump overboard, May hesitated. Joe urged her to say goodbye, and in a moment of desperation, he lifted her and threw her into the icy waters.

Remarkably, May floated for between three to five hours, thanks to the life belt keeping her mouth above water. “I was half-conscious,” she remembered, recalling the haunting sound of people singing “Nearer My God to Thee.” After enduring hours of uncertainty, she was eventually rescued by a lifeboat and taken to Queenstown.

Their survival story took a dark turn as May later learned that her family had not known she was on board until they received a telegram confirming her safety. Her brother-in-law rushed to Queenstown to find both May and Kitty unharmed, but they soon faced the reality of their lost possessions—a total claimed value of £220, including jewelry and cash.

In the aftermath, May struggled with post-traumatic stress, remaining mostly confined to her home. A local priest helped her regain her confidence, ultimately allowing her to rejoin the community.

May’s legacy lives on through her family: four grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Her story, originally published in April 2015 and updated for March 2026, serves as a poignant reminder of the human spirit’s resilience in the face of tragedy.

This incredible account sheds light on the personal stories behind historical events and continues to resonate with those interested in Irish heritage and maritime history.

As we reflect on the Lusitania tragedy, May’s journey from fear to survival remains an inspiring testament to courage and hope. Share this compelling story with fellow history enthusiasts and honor the memories of those who experienced this maritime disaster firsthand.