1919 COAL BARGE WRECK CAPE HENLOPEN

HISTORY OF SHIPWRECKS

LOSS OF TWO COAL BARGES & 10 CREW MEMBERS

OF CAPE HENLOPEN

Lewes, Delaware Monday 5 April 1915:

Yesterday's coastal storm claimed ten victims off the Delaware Capes. They were crews

of Consolidation Coal Company's barges 6 and 9, from Baltimore to Boston with cargo’s

of coal which struck off Cape Henlopen and went to pieces in the gale.

The barges broke apart of their tug, Cumberland, early in the day and were adrift despite

efforts in the gale winds of 60 mph and a blinding snowstorm to rehook. The tug stood by when they went aground and broke up but was unable to render assistance . The Lewes Life

Saving Station and Coast Guard made made repeated efforts but were unable to launch a

boat in the storm. Only three bodies washed ashore of the ten crew members.

The Cumberland, still with one barge left in tow made it to the breakwater harbor and

safety.

Abstract: Norwich Bulletin, Norwich, Connecticut, Monday April 5, 1915.