A Framed Lithograph of The Tragic Final Voyage of HMS Birkenhead in 1852.

This disaster was the origin of the phrase "Women and children first." On Feb. 25, 1852, off the coast of South Africa, HMS Birkenhead struck an uncharted rock. The ship was carrying 643 British soldiers, sailors and their families. The soldiers were assembled on deck and told to stand fast which they did. Twenty minutes later, after the women and children were placed in the boats, the ship sank. Only 193 were saved. Height 33" Width 27 1/2"