Ken's report was stunning!! It seems this is the first time an uncensored and candid play by play of what was seen within the bowels of the ship has been shared with Titanic buffs large and small. Past expeditions often forever cloaked their dicoveries with an air of secrecy.When i worked at the Boston Titanic exhibit, the exhibition crew wouldnt even tell the exhibit staff members what had been filmed. We were given vague ideas- we were told the rungs inside the foremast were filmed (under the forecastle);, but little else. This makes Kens detailed report a refreshing breath of fresh air. Numerous questions have been answered- one being the state of the cabins themslves. Most wood partitions are gone, but bed frames remain! Amazing...According to Kens' account, there seems to be an amazing quantity of intact paneling, despite the absesnse of many cabin walls. The presense of the leaded glass wndows in the 1st class recepotion room, and even an intact corner table in the dining room indicate that there were things within the ship that survived the carnage. I could not get over that image of the intact piece of furnature that still held the glass and caraffe. What were the odds those would survive unbroken? Without doubt THIS is the path future explorers must follow. Have team leaders who know Titanic cold, and are knowlegable enough to be aware of which canins they are exploring even without benifit of cabin walls. Seems that during the 1998 expedition, the poeple who fully unbderstood the layout of the interior of Titanic were far and few between...
The findings must then be shared wiuth the public- and for having done that Ken; THANK YOU!!!!!
Clearly there are some targets that need to be explored in the future
*The Turkish Baths is my top vote. How frustratuing Ken was lierally around the corner when his team had to back off. Given the fact that room was largely paneled with teak, and away from extensive currents. I suspect it will be in fine shape.
*The gymnasium- Before the gyms collapses into oblivion, I hope whatever remains can be brightly illuminated and filmed.
*The Reading and Writing Room- This is easily accessable either through the large rust hole on the boat deck. or by the large square window opening on A deck. The alcove could be filmed, and perhaps some glimpses could be caught of the crumpled lounge...In my opinion the Reading and Writing room was the most underrated room of elegance on the ship...
*The port side Verandah Cafe. Ken alluded it was a target, but didnt mention if they explored it after all. Its open to the sea, and looks very accessable...
Thanks again Ken for a fine report, and may future Titanic explorers learn from your example, by putting their findings into clear and concise decriptions that will be shared will all people in Titanic buufdom
Regards
Tarn Stephanos
lifelong Titanic buff
