Hell Ship: The Journey of the Ticonderoga

In 1852 the Ticonderoga was a handsome clipper ship with a nightmare hidden in its holds. She limped into Port Melbourne after a nightmare voyage from England in which nearly 200 of her passengers had died of Typhus.

A story almost lost, this is a true moment of Australian maritime folklore. Journey though hopes of a new world, then almost smell the rotting stench of them slipping away. All the time travel the themes of family, of grit and of courage – and love.

A young surgeon is thrust into the role of saving those left – and he did with a dedicated assistant at his side. This man was Michael Veitch’s great great Grandfather and his assistant, Annie Morrison his great great Grandmother. For Michael, this is a very personal story.

Written & Performed by: Michael Veitch

Directed by: Peter Houghton

Musician: Thomas Veitch (cello)