GC2K0WX SS: Hermes (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This cache has been archived.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.

The Geocache Maintenance guideline explains a CO's responsibility towards checking and maintaining the cache when problems are reported.

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If the CO feels that this cache has been archived in error please feel free to contact me within 30 days, via email or message via my profile ,quoting the GC number concerned

Thank you for understanding

Knagur Green
Groundspeak Volunteer Reviewer

GC2K0WX ▼

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:

Beach 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.

A 3500 ton Houston liner built in 1899 and commanded by Captain Josecito Grose. She was en route from the Argentine to Cape Town. In addition to the crew of forty and three stowaways, there were 11 passengers - 4 married couples and three single men. She arrived at Cape Town on Sunday, May 12, 1901. Finding the harbour completely full, she had to anchor in the bay until a berth became available. Shortly after dropping anchor a north-westerly wind began to blow and by nightfall it was blowing a gale. The second officer advised the captain to drop a second a second anchor, but the captain decided it was unnecessary. At 2am she began to drag her anchor.

Attempts to start her engine failed and ten minutes later the Hermes was hard aground broadside to the beach with waves breaking over her as she surged in the surf.

Considering it dangerous to remain on board, the captain decided to get the women off the vessel first and the ship's gig was lowered. Four women made for the beach while their husbands watched from the deck. The gig overturned and two of the women drowned and a third received a bad gash on the head while their distressed husbands were unable to do anything.

At first light a tug and the port lifeboat arrived as did the rocket apparatus and after 6 shots managed to get a line to the ship and transfer the crew and remaining passengers by breeches buoy. The Captain was the last to leave at 16h00.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Oruvaq fhpphyrag

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)