It was a beautiful summer day in the north of Ireland when Private Tour Guide Susie Millar picked my husband and I in our hotel and whisked us away into the city, typical Irish hospitality in trail.
Today was the day that we were going to be able to follow along the footsteps of Tommy Millar, who once upon a time worked as deck engineer on board the great Titanic, as told by his direct descendent, Susie Millar.
Having spent almost 25 years as a news journalist for the BBC & UTV, Susie was a natural narrator and storyteller. The ultimate companion in Belfast, she is welcoming, attentive and amicable to talk to and spend time with as affirmed by the enjoyable car ride we shared with her as she navigated her way expertly into the heart of the Titanic Quarter. Promoting Belfast’s Titanic Heritage and her family’s link to the ship, we carefully maneuvered our way through the historic quarter, and on to the original offices of the engineers and early visionaries of Belfast-based shipbuilders Harland & Wolf.
Top & Skirt | FROM HONG KONG
Blazer| ZARA
Shoes | PRIMARK
Like a mysterious ruin, I stood at the center in awe and, somehow, I could still see the traces of treasures that lie behind the remnants of what is now a dilapidated building in the middle of a bustling city. Susie gave us a very detailed account of what had happened to her family that fateful day. Like many of the passengers inside the lengthy Titanic, her great grandfather, Tommy Millar, had set foot inside in hopes of a better life in America. Susie sentimentally recalled how Tommy had his last conversation with his son, her grandfather. Tommy had given him a penny and made him promise not to spend it until he’s come back for them. Up to this day, that very penny remains with the Millar family as an important family memorabilia.
“Like many of the passengers inside the lengthy Titanic, her great grandfather, Tommy Millar, had set foot inside in hopes of a better life in America.”
The SS Nomadic, where I’m standing now, is the only surviving and working segment of the RMS Titanic. She was originally a tender boat used to shuttle first class passengers unto the ship. Spending much of her time in France, the SS Nomadic has returned to its hometown in Belfast to pay homage to the heritage that is the Titanic.
“The SS Nomadic, where I’m standing now, is the only surviving and working segment of the RMS Titanic.”
A day with Susie Millar is more than a tour. It is a glimpse behind the authentic stories at the heels of real characters that set sail in the RMS Titanic.
Truly a credible way to explore about in Belfast, don’t hesitate to drop Susie a line when you’re planning a trip to Northern Ireland: info@titanictours.co.
Thanks to Susie Millar – Titanic Tours Belfast | Budapest, Vigyazo Ferenc utca 4, Vigyázó Ferenc u., 1051 Hungary | +36 30 723 9383