My name is Michael Poirier and for the last twenty-five years, I’ve worked with like-minded researchers who are best equipped to preserve the history of the RMS Lusitania.

To tell you a little bit about myself. I’m a long time trustee with the Titanic International Society which puts out a large, quarterly journal. We’ve frequently featured original articles pertaining to the Lusitania. Barbara Anderson McDermott, was not only a survivor of the Lusitania, and an honor member of the society who spoke at two of our conventions until her passing, she was also a dear friend who let me record and write her story for posterity.

I’ve had the pleasure of being the consultant to several Lusitania books. I’m sure you’re aware of the international best seller ‘Dead Wake’ by Erik Larson. I was pleased to be able to help him and I feel like it helped advance people’s interest in the wreck. I also worked with Greg King and Penny Wilson on their excellent book on the subject. Vic Verlinden, a member of Project 17, has written one of the most important books on the subject, focused on his dives,  and I was honored to provide material for it. And so on… the goal being to educate people about the ship and making sure not to recycle the same old stories, myths, and mistakes. I’ve probably sought out and found several hundred accounts from the survivors which was no small feat. And, of course,  pictures of those on the final voyage from relatives, archives, etc . My memorabilia collection has menus, passenger lists, original snapshots taken aboard or of the ship. 

Back in 2014, I founded the Lusitania Association of Relatives. My distant cousin, Elbridge Thompson was lost in the wreck. Our members are very active and we had a large presence in Ireland, England, and New York for the centenary. It’s been a pleasure to share material with the Liverpool Maritime museum that has a permanent Lusitania exhibit. 

Currently, I’m working with HFX Studios to do the most correct animation of the sinking. 

I believe, I am a good judge of those who can best keep the history of the ship alive through their work and research. I wholeheartedly support Project 17 that includes Stuart Williamson, Vic Verlinden, Peter McCamley, etc. I am amazed at the level of research they have done over the years to prepare for the dive and I feel the maritime world and the historical record have been rewarded by their respectful efforts to record the ship as she is today. It’s no secret that the ship will continue to deteriorate and more items will be lost under the silt, never to be seen. Their photography provides details we could not get anywhere and also is helpful in solving mysteries from that fateful day in May. I implore you to please allow them to continue their work. It’s in my opinion that they are the best team to do so. 

Sincerely,
Michael Poirier