Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Shipwreck survivors 5: wreck of Earl of Hardwicke 1863


This interesting report (Natal Mercury 4 December 1863) on the wreck of the ship Earl of Hardwicke clearly emphasises some of the difficulties found when a ship was entering the port of Natal during the 1850s and 60s and beyond.








5 comments:

ANDREW VAN RENSBURG said...

Thank you for the fascinating account. It is clear from the details the role of an Inquiry into the loss of a vessel went beyond proving negligence on the part of the crew or not. The Board focused on the length and size of chains / cables used, recommending a larger scale for Port Natal, endorsed by certification and inspections. This is what you call progress. Andrew

Mole said...

Thanks for your insightful remarks as ever, Andrew.

Unknown said...

Where was the intended destination? before the wreck?

Mole said...

The Earl of Hardwicke was bound for Durban from Madras with a cargo of Indian immigrants destined mainly for the sugar plantations. All were landed safely.
Thanks for your comment.

Unknown said...

My great grand father no 1885, was on board this ship from Madras to Durban