On this day (8th March) WW1 Shipwreckollections

SS Madeline (1894-1918)

SS Madeline was a British cargo steamer built in 1894 by Furness, Withy & Co. Ltd., West Hartlepool. In 1918, at the time of her loss during WW1, the Madeline was owned by Pyman, Bell & Co. Ltd., Newcastle.

On 8 March 1918, SS Madeline was travelling on a voyage from Dieppe to Swansea in ballast when she was torpedoed without warning by a German U-boat under the command of Wilhelm Werner. The British steamer of 2,890 tonnes was sunk 14 miles ENE from the Pendeen lighthouse.

Sadly, three lives were lost in the attack.

The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society has offered assistance for fishermen and mariners in need since 1839. The maritime charity provides help for mariners, retired seafarers and their dependants, through financial help including welfare grants, as well as assistance and support.

Photo credit: wrecksite.eu