A ceremony was held Saturday afternoon to unveil a plaque to Christie Ann Morrison, who survived the worst tragedy in Great Lakes maritime history.

In 1882 Morrison was one of only two survivors of the sinking of the SS Asia. Caught on the open water when a hurricane hit, the over-crowded ship broke apart and sank somewhere in Georgian Bay. The estimated 123 people that died is the most ever in a Great Lakes disaster.

About 25 people, including two of Morrison's great-grandchildren, other family, and members of the Grey County Historical Society, gathered in the rain at Greenwood Cemetery in Owen Sound for the dedication ceremony.

Collingwood area author Fred Holmes was responsible for making the plaque possible, along with one dedicated this summer to the other survivor, Douglas Tinkiss.

Meaford Deputy Mayor Harley Greenfield recounted the tragic last voyage of the Asia. He knows the event well, having written a play about it. Local historian Aly Boltman gave an overview of Douglas Tinkiss' life.

Morrison married Albert Fleming in 1892. Their great-grandchildren, Darlene Vanwyck and Scott Fleming unveiled the plaque.

Photo Credit: Paris le Maitre