GC2BCCK SS: Bia and ss Umhlali (Traditional Cache) in Western Cape, South Africa created by paddawan and BoazRuthFields

This cache has been archived.

Knagur Green: Due to no response from the CO after the request to maintain or replace the cache, I am archiving it to, stop it showing on the listings and/or to create place for the geocaching community

If you feel that this cache has been archived in error please feel free to contact me via message or email quoting the GC number concerned

Thank you for understanding

GC2BCCK ▼

A cache by paddawan and BoazRuthFields Message this owner

Hidden : 12/1/2010

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:

A nice stroll past Olifantsbos to a cache that forms part of the Shipwreck Series. For the series methodology and more info visit SS: Shipwreck Series via the related web page link.

The ss Umhlali was a 3,388 ton steamer, built in 1904 and commanded by Captain J.L. Richards. This wreck happened 6 weeks later than the Maori on 15th September 1909. She struck Albatross rock at 22h30 when most of the passengers were asleep, and within 5 minutes her engine room was flooded. Captain Richards who should have been on the bridge was in the smoking room playing cards.

Passengers rushed to the deck and poured into the smoking room. The seamen managed to launch the six lifeboats. One lifeboat capsized in the dark and the occupants were flung into the water only to be saved by the crew of the captain's lifeboat who also managed to right the capsized lifeboat. Sadly Mrs Harrison holding her three year-old son lost control of him in the incident and despite rescue attempts by the crew, he disappeared below the surface and drowned.

One lifeboat was assisted by local fishermen who guided them to Kommetjie beach. The remaining five lifeboats rowed all night in the direction of Cape Town. Four lifeboats were picked by the Galeka and the fifth by the tug Falla.

The Swedish freighter the 3,344 ton Bia built in 1905 had a crew of 32 and met with a different fate. She struck Albatross Rock at 21h30 on 18 September 1917. They mistook the old Cape Point light for a steamer which caused them to head straight for the rocks and run aground. News of her grounding reached Simon's Town and three ships were sent, and took off the Second Officer with the ship's papers. The remainder of the officers and crew refused to leave the stranded vessel. During the night the swell increased dramatically. The next morning, two of the lifeboats cast off, but before they could reach the rescue vessels, one of the boats capsized and three men drowned. The remaining 14 crew-members on board the Bia had to use a rocket-line fired from Clara (one of the rescue vessels).

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Rnfg fvqr va gur zvqqyr

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)