14th April 1912 – The Night the Titanic Struck the Iceberg

At Britannia Fleet Removals, we’re proud of our deep roots in Liverpool, a city whose history is inseparable from the sea. From the bustling docks that once made Liverpool the gateway to the world, to the countless families – like ours – whose lives were shaped by its maritime legacy, Liverpool’s history lives on in the people who continue to serve this city with dedication and pride.

Today, on April 14th, we take a moment to reflect on a significant chapter in that legacy – the night the RMS Titanic struck the iceberg that would seal its fate in the early hours of April 15th, 1912.

 

Why does this resonate with us on a personal level?

Because Frederick Fleet, the lookout who first spotted the iceberg that night, is a distant relative of our family. It’s a connection that brings the enormity of that historical moment a little closer to home.

Frederick Fleet was on duty in the crow’s nest that evening, scanning the dark Atlantic waters without binoculars – which had been locked away due to a last-minute change in crew assignments. Despite these limitations, he saw the looming shape of the iceberg and rang the fateful warning bell. It was too late.

Fleet survived the sinking but carried the weight of that night for the rest of his life. He was a man doing his duty under impossible circumstances, much like the many hardworking men and women who built Liverpool’s maritime reputation from the ground up.

To preserve and honour Fred’s memory, a family member wrote a powerful piece entitled “Fred’s Song”, which echoes his pain, resilience, and the haunting silence of that fateful night. With lyrics like “Sounds no-one should hear,” it captures not just the tragedy of the Titanic, but the emotional legacy passed through generations. You can listen to the song below.

 

At our removals company, we often think about the resilience, courage, and endurance of people like Fred. These qualities are stitched into the very fabric of this city – and into the service we provide our customers every day. Whether we’re helping a family move to their new home or a business relocate with care, we carry that same spirit of responsibility and pride.

So today, we honour the memory of all those who sailed on the Titanic, and the generations of Liverpudlians who contributed to Britain’s great maritime history. It’s a legacy we never forget – and one that continues to inspire how we move forward.

Song and lyrics written by Desmond Fleet