HMS Terror – Inishowen Maritime Connection

The HMS Terror has a remarkable connection to Inishowen, County Donegal, linking local history with global exploration and Arctic discovery.

A Royal Navy Bomb Vessel (1813–1830s)

The HMS Terror was launched in 1813 as a Royal Navy bomb vessel. It was built with a strong oak hull designed to withstand heavy mortar fire.

The ship saw action during the War of 1812. It took part in the bombardment of Fort McHenry in Baltimore, which later inspired The Star-Spangled Banner.

Arctic Exploration and Lough Swilly Connection

In the 1830s, the ship was rebuilt for Arctic exploration. Under Captain George Back (1836–1837), it travelled into dangerous ice conditions near Southampton Island.

The ship became trapped and badly damaged in the ice. Its stern was crushed, and water entered the hull.

The crew managed to bring the ship across the Atlantic. HMS Terror was then beached in Lough Swilly, Inishowen, where she was repaired.

The crew received care in Buncrana, and local families supported the sailors during their stay.

The Franklin Expedition (1845)

In 1845, HMS Terror joined the Franklin Expedition, led by Sir John Franklin. Its sister ship was the HMS Erebus.

Both ships were upgraded with iron plating and steam engines. They were among the most advanced exploration vessels of their time.

The expedition aimed to find the Northwest Passage.

Tragedy in the Arctic

By 1846, both ships became trapped in ice near King William Island.

Sir John Franklin died during the expedition. The remaining crew, led by Francis Crozier, attempted to walk overland in a desperate effort to survive.

Most of the expedition was lost. The fate of the crew became one of the greatest maritime mysteries of the 19th century.

Rediscovery of HMS Terror (2016)

In 2016, explorers discovered HMS Terror at the bottom of Terror Bay in the Canadian Arctic.

The ship was found in remarkably good condition. Cabins, hatches, and artefacts were still preserved.

The wreck is now protected as part of a National Historic Site of Canada, managed by Parks Canada and Inuit communities.

Inishowen’s Place in the Story

The connection to Inishowen remains an important part of the ship’s history. When HMS Terror was damaged, she was brought safely to Lough Swilly, where the crew received support in Buncrana.

This local moment links Inishowen to one of the most famous Arctic exploration stories in history.

Photo Courtesy of National Archive of Canada