The SS Proteus, a luxury liner owned by Southern Pacific Steamship Line, was once a symbol of elegance and modernity, connecting New York and New Orleans. Built in 1900, this well-appointed vessel was renowned for its speed, comfort, and accommodations. However, in the fog of war during World War I, the Proteus met its fate off the coast of North Carolina.
The Vessel’s Construction and Service
The SS Proteus was built to the highest standards by Newport News Shipbuilding & Dry Dock Co. Measuring 390 feet in length and boasting a beam of 48 feet, she carried 4,836 gross tons. Her staterooms were lavish, with round and rectangular portholes offering excellent ventilation, electric lighting, and modern amenities for passengers and crew. She was a prized vessel for many years, offering unparalleled comfort to travelers along her route from New York to New Orleans.
The Final Voyage
On August 14, 1918, the Proteus set sail from New Orleans for what would be her final voyage. As she approached the treacherous waters of North Carolina on August 19, she encountered thick fog. In addition to low visibility, the Proteus was sailing without her navigation lights, following wartime precautions to avoid detection by German submarines.
As the Proteus neared Diamond Shoals, she crossed paths with the SS Cushing, a tanker. Despite efforts to avoid a collision, the Cushing struck the Proteus on her starboard side, creating a devastating wound below the waterline.
The Aftermath of the Collision
The collision was catastrophic, but Captain Boyd maintained control, ordering the safe evacuation of all aboard. Tragically, a panicked crew member leapt overboard and was lost, becoming the only fatality. Within the hour, all passengers and crew were transferred to the Cushing, which had also sustained damage. The Proteus sank in 125 feet of water, 25 miles south of Hatteras Inlet.
Diving the Proteus
Today, the Proteus rests on the ocean floor, tilted to her port side. Her bow, though partially collapsed, still rises dramatically from the seabed. The wreck offers divers an impressive site, with key features like the large boilers and the triple expansion engine visible. Divers often explore the wreck in search of artifacts, particularly in the galley, where china and silverware have been recovered over the years.
The stern is especially notable, with a high relief that once culminated in a large bronze steering quadrant. However, the hurricanes of 2012 shifted this portion of the wreck, lowering its height by about ten feet. Despite this, the Proteus remains a popular site for divers due to its rich marine life, including large groupers and sand tiger sharks that frequently inhabit the area.
Conditions at the Wreck Site
The Proteus lies near the edge of the Gulf Stream, meaning the waters over the wreck are typically warm and clear during the summer months. However, divers often encounter strong currents that flow across the wreck, making navigation challenging. On calm days, though, the site provides an extraordinary opportunity for exploration, with its towering structures and abundant sea life offering a unique underwater experience.
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Join Us Next Saturday
We hope you found this episode of “Ocean Echoes: North Carolina’s Shipwreck Chronicles” both informative and moving. Join us next Saturday as we continue to uncover more stories of sunken ships and maritime mysteries. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on our latest episodes.Thank you for joining us on this journey through history. Until next time, stay curious and keep exploring!
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