Titanic Exhibition in Las Vegas Showcases Newly Conserved Artifact
LAS VEGAS – In a noteworthy addition to the ongoing TITANIC: The Artifact Exhibition at the Luxor Hotel and Casino, the recently restored Kilroy stoking transmitter has made its debut, marking a significant tribute to the 113th anniversary of the RMS Titanic’s ill-fated maiden voyage.
The Significance of the Kilroy Transmitter
Previously unseen by the public, this key piece of machinery was retrieved during the third expedition by RMS Titanic, Inc. (RMST) in 1994. The transmitter played a crucial role in the ship’s engineering operations, located within the engine rooms. It provided essential time signals to the boiler room crew, thereby optimizing the operation of Titanic’s 29 massive boilers throughout the voyage to New York City.
“This artifact is a direct connection to the human effort it took to keep Titanic moving,” stated Tomasina Ray, President of RMS Titanic, Inc. and Director of Collections. “It speaks not only to the Ship’s technological advancements, but also to the incredible physical labor of the hundreds of stokers and crew who powered her journey and gave those on board the best chance for rescue.”
Conservation Journey of the Artifact
The Kilroy transmitter was uncovered in Titanic’s vast debris field, which stretches over 15 square miles between the bow and stern of the sunken vessel. For years, this delicate artifact was kept in controlled storage to maintain its fragile condition. Following recent conservation efforts, it is now showcased alongside the stoking indicator receiver, which was recovered in the 1987 expedition and has been part of the permanent exhibition.
The multi-phase conservation process initiated earlier this year involved:
- Desalination
- Stabilization
- Thorough manual restoration to eliminate corrosion while preserving historical integrity
This meticulous effort reflects RMST’s enduring commitment to protecting and sharing the legacy of the Titanic, ensuring that future generations can learn from its storied past.
RMS Titanic, Inc. and Its Mission
As the official salvor-in-possession of the RMS Titanic wreck site, RMST has conducted nine expeditions since 1987, recovering over 5,500 authentic artifacts. Each of these conservation projects is not merely a restoration effort but also an homage to the lives lost during the tragedy, aiming to convey their stories through the tangible remnants of the ship.
Exhibition Overview
The TITANIC: The Artifact Exhibition features more than 350 authentic artifacts salvaged from the ocean floor, along with intricately designed room recreations. Notable exhibits include the Grand Staircase and both first- and third-class cabins, culminating in an authentic experience of Titanic’s ambiance at its peak. Of particular interest is “The Big Piece,” a 15-ton section of Titanic’s starboard hull, the largest artifact recovered from the wreck.
The exhibition is open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., with final admission at 7 p.m. For further details and ticket purchases, please visit TitanicLasVegas.com.
About RMS Titanic, Inc. and E/M Group
RMS Titanic, Inc., tasked with preserving the Titanic’s legacy through educational programs and innovative exhibitions, is the only organization authorized to recover artifacts from the wreck site. Since its establishment, RMST has been at the forefront of Titanic-related research and recovery.
The E/M Group, based in Atlanta, specializes in creating exhibitions that entertain and enlighten visitors of all ages, with an emphasis on authentic storytelling and compelling artifacts. Their installations, including BODIES…The Exhibition and TITANIC: The Artifact Exhibition, have captivated audiences globally.