The posted coordinates will take you to a monument commemorating a maritime disaster that ended right next to Convention Hall in Asbury Park, NJ.
The SS Morro Castle, a luxury cruise ship, was en route from Havana, Cuba to New York City when a fire broke out in the early morning hours of September 8, 1934. Many passengers leapt from the burning vessel into the ocean and were rescued by first responders and citizens of the area who pulled them onto the beach. A total of 137 passengers and crew perished as a result of the fire. The smoldering vessel eventually beached itself just off of Convention Hall.
The troubles began on the night of September 7. After eating dinner, Captain Robert Wilmott complained of stomach trouble and later was found dead in his cabin. A few hours later, around 2:50 a.m. on September 8, a fire broke out in a storage locker on B Deck. Due to the construction of the ship with highly flammable materials, the fire spread quickly. Making matters worse, the ship was headed into a nor'easter which fanned flames. The fire could not be contained, and many of the crew abandoned ship. A total of 137 passengers and crew, out of 549, perished in the disaster.
For months after the ship beached in Asbury Park, tourists came flocking to see the burned out hull, until it was towed away in 1935.
Subsequent safety initiatives
The devastating fire aboard the Morro Castle was a catalyst for improved shipboard fire safety. Today, the use of fire retardant materials, automatic fire doors, and ship-wide fire alarms is a direct result of the Morro Castle disaster. The incident also led to greater attention being placed on fire drills and life boat procedures.
The origins of the fire remain a mystery, however the Chief Radio Operator was alleged to have been the arsonist. For a more in-depth account of the tragedy and the suspicions with lots of interesting photos, check out Ripley's (Click HERE).
Also, check out the Asbury Park Historical Society site for more information and a short video.
PBS also aired a program titled "Tales of the Jersey Shore" which had episode about the Morro Castle.
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