S.S. LYGNERN (1920 -1928)
The Lygnern stranded with tug Uco (photo: State Library of WA)
Description
Screw Steamer with triple expansion 440 HP
Construction
Steel
Size
4896 tons length 122m.breath 15.9m depth 7.6m
Built
1920 by Mc Millan and Son, Dumbarton, Scotland
Owner
Rederra Kliebologet Transatlantic, Gothenberg
Sunk
18 September 1928
Location
Beagle Rocks, south of South Mole
Latitude/Longitude
(-32.060566, 115.727158)
Sinking
The Ship arrived at Fremantle to unload during a wharfies strike and was steered out to Gage Roads by Captain H. Steer as pilot to anchor south of harbour, with a strong swell running an anchor was laid out. The anchor failed and the ship touched bottom, using ships engines failed and a tug was called. The tug Uco made two attempts but the towline parted. Rocks pierced the hull and the engine room flooded. With no steam power salvage of cargo was by hand. Days of rough weather with 70 knot winds further delayed salvage.Tenders were called for sale of vessel and remaining cargo Salvage continued for months until more bad weather started to break up the ship. The ship was then advertised again for scrap. Frank Bell used gelignite to blow off four blades of propeller, each weighing two tons. By July 1930 almost everything of value had been stripped off the wreck.
Underwater
Out from South Mole, immediately south of isolated danger marker in 8 metres of water, visibility 5-10 metres. Boat dive near entrance to Fishing boat harbour and entrance to Port. Dive flag and care to be taken.
Gallery
