The American Monument
The American Monument is a historical tourist spot on the rocky peninsula of Islay, known as The Oa. The circular tower stands 10 meters in height on the cliff’s edge, a short distance away from a 300ft drop into the sea.
What is the American Monument?
It was constructed as a memorial to the hundreds of American lives that were lost when two troop ships were lost off the coast of Islay back in 1918. It was built by the American National Red Cross, and has a large plaque that mourns the two ships’ sinkings, as well as an eagle carrying a wreath. There is also a much smaller plaque that holds a quote from President Woodrow Wilson.
Lost souls
The monument is a memorial for the lives lost in two separate sinkings. It remembers those who died when the S.S. Tuscania, a ship travelling from New Jersey to Britain, was torpedoed by a German U-boat. Carrying an estimated 2,000 US soldiers, she sank within a few hours. 200 Americans, and 60 Britons, lost their lives as she sank to the bottom. The monument also remembers those who, not eight months later, died when the H.M.S. Otranto sank in Machir Bay after colliding with another troop ship. 431 lives were lost, 351 of which were American servicemen.
For Americans, the sinking of the Tuscania was the first large-scale loss of life in a war since the American Civil War, making it a poignant loss for many. These feelings of loss were exacerbated when the H.M.S Otranto also sank off the shores of Islay within a year.
Book NowRescue mission
For Islay citizens, the sinkings were also a big part of their history. The island had lost the majority of its able-bodied male population, and so upon the sinkings, old men and boys were called upon to help rescue the survivors. It was a shocking tale of loss. But it was also a tale of inspiration. The local community pulled together for the rescue and to support the survivors. The locals sacrificed what little food and clothing they had to help feed and clothe the survivors. And a pair of islanders even managed to save 3 men with a long broom handle!
As a result, the American Red Cross built the monument to remember those that had been lost. The monument’s location allows it to be seen from north-west Islay and can be seen from across the sea by those in boats.
When you’re done…
Once you’ve visited the American Monument, why not visit to the RSPB OA Nature Reserve? The reserve consists of the area surrounding the monument and is full of rare and local wildlife all year-round. You may get the chance to see fulmars, kittiwakes and razorbills, and can walk over the steep cliffs, enjoying the dramatic views.
If you’re interested in more American history while visiting Islay, take a trip to the Kilchoman Military Cemetery, or the Museum of Islay Life in Port Charlotte, where the ship’s bell from the Tuscania is on view. You can see the American Monument from another perspective from the museum. And when you’re done, you can head back to the comfort of your accommodation at Islay Cottages.
Book NowEverything was to a good standard, the beds were comfortable and the wi-fi connection was more than adequate for such a remote location (we didn’t use the TV/DVD). The living room and kitchen area is perfect for relaxing in the evenings, and you’ll be amazed at the quiet ! If your idea of the perfect holiday is getting out into the wilds and exploring miles of unspoilt beauty, this is the place for you. I am certain it is popular with walkers, but you can also do many exciting trips by car (which you’ll need anyway to get around !). Some of the roads do get a bit funky in places, and it’s largely single track with passing places, but you soon get used to this, and the courtesy between drivers is generally a joy to experience.
The Kilchoman cottages are near three absolutely stunning beaches, all within 4/5 miles: Machir Bay, Saligo Bay and Sanaigmore, it was impossible to choose between them, but we visited each one at least twice. Perhaps the most scenic beaches we’ve ever seen, with beautiful rock formations, white sand and totally unspoilt (and indeed generally deserted !)
There’s also the possibility to take a day trip over to the nearby island of Jura, the famous `paps’ (mountains) add a stunning back drop to so many places on Islay. It is a photographer’s dream. Life is simpler here, and in many ways it had not changed at all for me since 1972 ! A lifetime dream fulfilled to come back here, and I wasn’t disappointed ! We were very very lucky with the weather, which does help, and on a good day I wouldn’t hesitate to call it paradise.
Handy hints: Take plenty of basic provisions with you, but the Co-op in Bowmore is up to modern standards for most of your needs, we only needed a couple of trips there to restock in two weeks. If you’re big on nightlife and bustle, give it a miss…but if you love nature, beauty and fresh air….it can’t be beaten.
