On this day (12th December) WW1 Shipwreckollections

SS Charleston (1908-1917)

British merchant cargo vessel, SS Charleston, was a steamer of 1,866 tonnes built in 1908 by Irvine’s Shipbuilding & Drydock Co. Ltd., West Hartlepool. At the time of her loss during WW1, the Charleston was owned by Furness Withy & Co. Ltd.

On 12 December 1917, the defensively-armed Charleston was travelling on a voyage from Cardiff for Berehaven with a cargo of coal when she was targeted by a German U-boat. The Charleston was captured and sunk by bombs when 30 miles West from the Smalls, Wales.

Two gunners were taken as prisoners but no 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