S.S. Wilston
SS Wilston †15/02/1916
Displacement: 2611 grt.
Length: 94.5 m. Beam: 14.1 m. Draught: 6.2 m.
Propulsion: 1-screw. T3Cyl. (22.5, 36 & 59 - 39)in. 180lb. 253NHP 2 x boilers
Complement: 23 officers and men.
Men Lost: 7
Armament: unknown
Displacement: 2611 grt.
Length: 94.5 m. Beam: 14.1 m. Draught: 6.2 m.
Propulsion: 1-screw. T3Cyl. (22.5, 36 & 59 - 39)in. 180lb. 253NHP 2 x boilers
Complement: 23 officers and men.
Men Lost: 7
Armament: unknown
The steel steamship SS Wilston was built in 1909 by Robert Duncan & Co. Ltd, Glasgow, yard number 315, for Miller W. S. & Co. (William S.), Glasgow.
Greenock Telegraph and Clyde Shipping Gazette - Wednesday 02 June 1909
LAUNCH AT PORT-GLASGOW. Messrs Robert Duncan Co. launched from their yard the steel screw steamer ''Wilston,'' built* for the Wilston Steamship Company, Glasgow (W. S. Miller Co., managers). Her dimensions are: Length, 310 feet; breadth, 46 feet; depth. 23 feet, with a deadweight carrying capacity of ab ut 7,000 tons. The naming ceremony was performed Miss Julia Miller, of Glendermott, Bute. The new steamer will be engined Messrs David Rowan & Co., Glasgow.
Greenock Telegraph and Clyde Shipping Gazette - Wednesday 02 June 1909
LAUNCH AT PORT-GLASGOW. Messrs Robert Duncan Co. launched from their yard the steel screw steamer ''Wilston,'' built* for the Wilston Steamship Company, Glasgow (W. S. Miller Co., managers). Her dimensions are: Length, 310 feet; breadth, 46 feet; depth. 23 feet, with a deadweight carrying capacity of ab ut 7,000 tons. The naming ceremony was performed Miss Julia Miller, of Glendermott, Bute. The new steamer will be engined Messrs David Rowan & Co., Glasgow.
House Flag W. S. Miller & Co.
Lloyds Register of Shipping 1916
History
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Friday 03 July 1914
LATEST SHIPPING.
Wilston (s), left Archangel for Barry, July 2.
Shetland Times - Saturday 18 July 1914
SHETLAND SEAMAN DROWNED.
On Tuesday brief telegraphic information was received by Mr. John Moncrieff, Spiggie, Dunrossness, of the drowning of his son Sinclair. Sinclair Moncrieff who was a seaman on board the steamer Wilston, which was on a voyage from Archangel to Cardiff. No particulars are yet to hand as to how the deceased was drowned, nor when the accident happened. Sinclair Moncrieff, who was about 24 years of age, was held in the highest esteem by those who knew him, and his tragic death has cast a gloom over the district to which he belonged.
Shetland Times - Saturday 17 July 1915
IN MEMORIAM.
MONCRIEFF.-In loving memory of our dear son and brother, Sinclair Moncrieff, who was lost at sea from the Wilston of Glasgow, on a voyage from Archangel to Cardiff, on 10th July, 1914.
We little thought when leaving home
That he would no more return;
That he so soon in death would sleep,
And leave us here to mourn.
The parting was so bitter,
The meeting will be sweet;
The sweeter for the parting,
When we our loved one meet.
We cannot guess the purpose
Of parting us below;
But what just now we know not
We shall hereafter know.
-Inserted by his sorrowing parents, brothers and sisters, Spiggie, Dunrossness, Shetland.
LATEST SHIPPING.
Wilston (s), left Archangel for Barry, July 2.
Shetland Times - Saturday 18 July 1914
SHETLAND SEAMAN DROWNED.
On Tuesday brief telegraphic information was received by Mr. John Moncrieff, Spiggie, Dunrossness, of the drowning of his son Sinclair. Sinclair Moncrieff who was a seaman on board the steamer Wilston, which was on a voyage from Archangel to Cardiff. No particulars are yet to hand as to how the deceased was drowned, nor when the accident happened. Sinclair Moncrieff, who was about 24 years of age, was held in the highest esteem by those who knew him, and his tragic death has cast a gloom over the district to which he belonged.
Shetland Times - Saturday 17 July 1915
IN MEMORIAM.
MONCRIEFF.-In loving memory of our dear son and brother, Sinclair Moncrieff, who was lost at sea from the Wilston of Glasgow, on a voyage from Archangel to Cardiff, on 10th July, 1914.
We little thought when leaving home
That he would no more return;
That he so soon in death would sleep,
And leave us here to mourn.
The parting was so bitter,
The meeting will be sweet;
The sweeter for the parting,
When we our loved one meet.
We cannot guess the purpose
Of parting us below;
But what just now we know not
We shall hereafter know.
-Inserted by his sorrowing parents, brothers and sisters, Spiggie, Dunrossness, Shetland.
World War One
The Loss
The SS Wilston was sailing under sealed orders to deliver coal to the fleet at Scapa Flow. On the 15th February 1916 the SS Wilston struck a mine and sank with the loss of seven crew.
Lloyds War Losses World War One
Shields Daily Gazette - Wednesday 16 February 1916
GLASGOW STEAMER SUNK. SURVIVORS LANDED AT FRASERBURGH. Sixteen seamen, being the surviving members of the crew of the steamer Wilston, of Glasgow. 1,682 tons register, have been landed at Fraserburgh. The Wilston was hound from the Tyne to Scapa Flow with coal when she was sunk. She went down in five minutes. Seven members of the crew, including the captain and first mate, were drowned. The remainder took the boats, and one died. The survivors were picked up by the Express, Kirkwall.
GLASGOW STEAMER SUNK. SURVIVORS LANDED AT FRASERBURGH. Sixteen seamen, being the surviving members of the crew of the steamer Wilston, of Glasgow. 1,682 tons register, have been landed at Fraserburgh. The Wilston was hound from the Tyne to Scapa Flow with coal when she was sunk. She went down in five minutes. Seven members of the crew, including the captain and first mate, were drowned. The remainder took the boats, and one died. The survivors were picked up by the Express, Kirkwall.
Dundee Courier - Saturday 19 February 1916
TERRIBLE PLIGHT OF SHIP-WRECKED MEN. GLASGOW STEAMER ABANDONED NORTH SEA. Several survivors the Glasgow steamer Wilston, which has been briefly reported as having been abandoned in the North Sea, with the loss of seven lives, arrived at South Shields yesterday, and told a thrilling story of their experiences. The weather was very severe at the time of the disaster, and for twelve hours the survivors were drifting about in small boats at the mercy of the sea. When the vessel foundered two engineers and a seaman jumped into the sea, being rescued with great difficulty by shipmates in lifeboats. As the vessel went down three men were seen on deck, including the captain. They must have been sucked down by the sinking vessel. The survivors burned flare lights for assistance, but none came. Their plight was terrible. The men were very lightly clad, and the cold was so severe that the third engineer became delirious, and when the men were eventually rescued was found to have succumbed. One of the lifeboats became disabled, and the men had to be transferred to another boat, a hazardous performance in view of the stormy weather. The men rowed towards the shore, and were just giving up hope when the. Scottish steamer Express arrived on the scene and took the men aboard, landing them the nearest port. The men were such state of exhaustion that it was some time before they could proceed home.
TERRIBLE PLIGHT OF SHIP-WRECKED MEN. GLASGOW STEAMER ABANDONED NORTH SEA. Several survivors the Glasgow steamer Wilston, which has been briefly reported as having been abandoned in the North Sea, with the loss of seven lives, arrived at South Shields yesterday, and told a thrilling story of their experiences. The weather was very severe at the time of the disaster, and for twelve hours the survivors were drifting about in small boats at the mercy of the sea. When the vessel foundered two engineers and a seaman jumped into the sea, being rescued with great difficulty by shipmates in lifeboats. As the vessel went down three men were seen on deck, including the captain. They must have been sucked down by the sinking vessel. The survivors burned flare lights for assistance, but none came. Their plight was terrible. The men were very lightly clad, and the cold was so severe that the third engineer became delirious, and when the men were eventually rescued was found to have succumbed. One of the lifeboats became disabled, and the men had to be transferred to another boat, a hazardous performance in view of the stormy weather. The men rowed towards the shore, and were just giving up hope when the. Scottish steamer Express arrived on the scene and took the men aboard, landing them the nearest port. The men were such state of exhaustion that it was some time before they could proceed home.
Newcastle Journal - Saturday 19 February 1916
GLASGOW STEAMER LOST
FOUR SOUTH SHIELDS MEN DROWNED
Severe experiences after the loss of their vessel were reported at South Shields, yesterday, by several of the survivors of the Glasgow steamer Wilston, who reached their homes. For eleven hours they were in the boats in a strong sea and bitterly cold weather before being rescued by the steamer Express. Eight members of the Wilston's crew perished, namely, the master, Captain Keay of Tayport; the chief mate, Robert Graham of Glasgow; the second engineer, Allan Campbell of Glasgow; the third engineer, T. Sinclair of Glasgow; a seaman named J. Dadd, of George Street, South Shields; and three South Shields firemen, named respectively Thomas Simpson, Thos. Grey, and L. Holmes.
As soon as it was seen that the ship was foundering, the boats, by order of the master, were got out, one being in charge of the second mate, and another of the boatswain, F. Morrison. The ship went down rapidly and there was little time to get in the small craft, several of the men having to jump into the sea to reach them. In this way the chief engineer and a seaman named J. Redmond were rescued, and the third engineer, Sinclair, was picked up. Having apparently just come off duty and being scantily clad, Sinclair was in an exhausted condition, and suffered terribly form the cold. Some of his mates gave him what clothing they could spare, but he got gradually worse, and subsequently died form the exposure. A fireman named William Roberts jumped into the sea and was rescued, but others of the crew suffered a worse fate.
Captain Goes Down with the Ship
Captain Keay, who was on the poop, went down with the steamer, and the chief mate, who jumped from the poop into the water, was lost, it being found impossible, owing to the wind and sea, to reach him with the boat. One of the firemen, T. Simpson, was apparently washed from the side of the ship in assisting to get the boats out, and was afterwards missing, as was also L. Holmes who also apparently was washed away. The second engineer, Campbell, is believed to have been drowned in his cabin, and the seaman Dadd apparently met with a similar fate, being last seen in the forecastle.
When the men were taken from the boats by the Express, efforts were made to bring the third engineer round by means of artificial respiration without success. The survivors were provided with dry clothing and refreshments, and were subsequently landed.
Captain Goes Down with the Ship
Captain Keay, who was on the poop, went down with the steamer, and the chief mate, who jumped from the poop into the water, was lost, it being found impossible, owing to the wind and sea, to reach him with the boat. One of the firemen, T. Simpson, was apparently washed from the side of the ship in assisting to get the boats out, and was afterwards missing, as was also L. Holmes who also apparently was washed away. The second engineer, Campbell, is believed to have been drowned in his cabin, and the seaman Dadd apparently met with a similar fate, being last seen in the forecastle.
When the men were taken from the boats by the Express, efforts were made to bring the third engineer round by means of artificial respiration without success. The survivors were provided with dry clothing and refreshments, and were subsequently landed.
GLASGOW STEAMER LOST
FOUR SOUTH SHIELDS MEN DROWNED
Severe experiences after the loss of their vessel were reported at South Shields, yesterday, by several of the survivors of the Glasgow steamer Wilston, who reached their homes. For eleven hours they were in the boats in a strong sea and bitterly cold weather before being rescued by the steamer Express. Eight members of the Wilston's crew perished, namely, the master, Captain Keay of Tayport; the chief mate, Robert Graham of Glasgow; the second engineer, Allan Campbell of Glasgow; the third engineer, T. Sinclair of Glasgow; a seaman named J. Dadd, of George Street, South Shields; and three South Shields firemen, named respectively Thomas Simpson, Thos. Grey, and L. Holmes.
As soon as it was seen that the ship was foundering, the boats, by order of the master, were got out, one being in charge of the second mate, and another of the boatswain, F. Morrison. The ship went down rapidly and there was little time to get in the small craft, several of the men having to jump into the sea to reach them. In this way the chief engineer and a seaman named J. Redmond were rescued, and the third engineer, Sinclair, was picked up. Having apparently just come off duty and being scantily clad, Sinclair was in an exhausted condition, and suffered terribly form the cold. Some of his mates gave him what clothing they could spare, but he got gradually worse, and subsequently died form the exposure. A fireman named William Roberts jumped into the sea and was rescued, but others of the crew suffered a worse fate.
Captain Goes Down with the Ship
Captain Keay, who was on the poop, went down with the steamer, and the chief mate, who jumped from the poop into the water, was lost, it being found impossible, owing to the wind and sea, to reach him with the boat. One of the firemen, T. Simpson, was apparently washed from the side of the ship in assisting to get the boats out, and was afterwards missing, as was also L. Holmes who also apparently was washed away. The second engineer, Campbell, is believed to have been drowned in his cabin, and the seaman Dadd apparently met with a similar fate, being last seen in the forecastle.
When the men were taken from the boats by the Express, efforts were made to bring the third engineer round by means of artificial respiration without success. The survivors were provided with dry clothing and refreshments, and were subsequently landed.
Captain Goes Down with the Ship
Captain Keay, who was on the poop, went down with the steamer, and the chief mate, who jumped from the poop into the water, was lost, it being found impossible, owing to the wind and sea, to reach him with the boat. One of the firemen, T. Simpson, was apparently washed from the side of the ship in assisting to get the boats out, and was afterwards missing, as was also L. Holmes who also apparently was washed away. The second engineer, Campbell, is believed to have been drowned in his cabin, and the seaman Dadd apparently met with a similar fate, being last seen in the forecastle.
When the men were taken from the boats by the Express, efforts were made to bring the third engineer round by means of artificial respiration without success. The survivors were provided with dry clothing and refreshments, and were subsequently landed.
Dundee Courier - Monday 21 February 1916
TEN HOURS IN OPEN BOATS. DUNDEE MEN UNDERGO GREAT HARDSHIPS AFTER SINKING OF THE WILSTON.
The survivors of the ill-fated Glasgow steamer Wilston endured terrible hardships before they were picked up. For ten hours they were at the mercy of a heavy sea in small open boat without food and water. Frederick Craig, who was steward on board, and who has arrived at his home 30 Victoria Street, Dundee, said there was a big hole in the port side of the ship. He was in bed at the time, and was pitched out on to the floor of the cabin. He had just! 'grabbed" a bundle of clothes, and was, making his way out of the cabin, when the roof fell in. He ran to the captain's cabin, but discovered that the master had already gone on deck. Mr Craig also went on deck and found that the ship had listed terribly to port and was filling rapidly. Several others, and himself, after much difficulty owing to the heavy seas running at the time, lowered the starboard boat, and the same time the port boat was also lowered.
Captain Goes Down with Ship.
The survivors shouted to those on board to jump, and three were picked up by the port boat. When the Wilston foundered three men, including the skipper, were observed on deck. Captain Keay would not leave until the others had been rescued, with the result that he and the others must have been sucked down with the ship, which sank in five minutes. Just as the vessel heeled over cries of help were heard by those in the boats. Sails were rigged up, and the boats were headed with the wind in a north-westerly direction. The third engineer, who was in very exhausted condition, turned delirious for want of food and water. The port boat was abandoned and cast away, and the crew were transferred to the starboard boat, a very difficult task because heavy seas and the exhausted condition of the men. Lights were observed the distance, and high hopes of rescue filled the hearts of the shipwrecked mariners, but very soon the lights disappeared. With the break of day the coast was sighted, but there was no hope of reaching land as wind was too strong against them, and so the boat was tossed about at the mercy of the waves.
Third Engineer Succumbs.
About midday a vessel was observed coming in northerly direction, and signals of distress were hoisted, but without success. The only means left of attracting attention was to run across the vessel's bows, and this was resorted to. Every inch of sail was crowded on, and the venture proved successful. In a very short time the men were picked up. Just after they got on board it was discovered that the third engineer had breathed his last, having succumbed to exposure and exhaustion. Most of the men were sparely clad, and suffered terribly from exposure, but Mr Craig was more fortunate in this respect than his mates, as he was able to snatch a bundle of clothes before he left the ship. Mr Craig's brother John, who was seaman on board the Wilston, was also fortunate enough to be among the rescued, and he has also returned home.
Dundee Courier - Saturday 19 February 1916
TWO DUNDEE BROTHERS AMONG THE RESCUED. Two Dundee brothers, members of the crew the Glasgow Wilston. which 16 reported to have been abandoned in the North Sea, were amongst those who were fortunate to be picked up and landed the steamer Express. They are John and Frederick Craig, and they have arrived at their homes at. 30 Victoria Street.
TEN HOURS IN OPEN BOATS. DUNDEE MEN UNDERGO GREAT HARDSHIPS AFTER SINKING OF THE WILSTON.
The survivors of the ill-fated Glasgow steamer Wilston endured terrible hardships before they were picked up. For ten hours they were at the mercy of a heavy sea in small open boat without food and water. Frederick Craig, who was steward on board, and who has arrived at his home 30 Victoria Street, Dundee, said there was a big hole in the port side of the ship. He was in bed at the time, and was pitched out on to the floor of the cabin. He had just! 'grabbed" a bundle of clothes, and was, making his way out of the cabin, when the roof fell in. He ran to the captain's cabin, but discovered that the master had already gone on deck. Mr Craig also went on deck and found that the ship had listed terribly to port and was filling rapidly. Several others, and himself, after much difficulty owing to the heavy seas running at the time, lowered the starboard boat, and the same time the port boat was also lowered.
Captain Goes Down with Ship.
The survivors shouted to those on board to jump, and three were picked up by the port boat. When the Wilston foundered three men, including the skipper, were observed on deck. Captain Keay would not leave until the others had been rescued, with the result that he and the others must have been sucked down with the ship, which sank in five minutes. Just as the vessel heeled over cries of help were heard by those in the boats. Sails were rigged up, and the boats were headed with the wind in a north-westerly direction. The third engineer, who was in very exhausted condition, turned delirious for want of food and water. The port boat was abandoned and cast away, and the crew were transferred to the starboard boat, a very difficult task because heavy seas and the exhausted condition of the men. Lights were observed the distance, and high hopes of rescue filled the hearts of the shipwrecked mariners, but very soon the lights disappeared. With the break of day the coast was sighted, but there was no hope of reaching land as wind was too strong against them, and so the boat was tossed about at the mercy of the waves.
Third Engineer Succumbs.
About midday a vessel was observed coming in northerly direction, and signals of distress were hoisted, but without success. The only means left of attracting attention was to run across the vessel's bows, and this was resorted to. Every inch of sail was crowded on, and the venture proved successful. In a very short time the men were picked up. Just after they got on board it was discovered that the third engineer had breathed his last, having succumbed to exposure and exhaustion. Most of the men were sparely clad, and suffered terribly from exposure, but Mr Craig was more fortunate in this respect than his mates, as he was able to snatch a bundle of clothes before he left the ship. Mr Craig's brother John, who was seaman on board the Wilston, was also fortunate enough to be among the rescued, and he has also returned home.
Dundee Courier - Saturday 19 February 1916
TWO DUNDEE BROTHERS AMONG THE RESCUED. Two Dundee brothers, members of the crew the Glasgow Wilston. which 16 reported to have been abandoned in the North Sea, were amongst those who were fortunate to be picked up and landed the steamer Express. They are John and Frederick Craig, and they have arrived at their homes at. 30 Victoria Street.
Aberdeen Weekly Journal - Friday 25 February 1916
The survivors of the SS Wilston who were landed here last week were in a pitiable state of exhaustion. In there little boat they had drifted around the North Sea for 13 hours before being picked up. The weather was wintery, and an icy wind speedily benumbed the scantily-clad sailors, one of whom escaped from the sinking steamer in his shirt. They had some biscuits and water in the boat, but few of them had sufficient energy to partake of food.
The survivors of the SS Wilston who were landed here last week were in a pitiable state of exhaustion. In there little boat they had drifted around the North Sea for 13 hours before being picked up. The weather was wintery, and an icy wind speedily benumbed the scantily-clad sailors, one of whom escaped from the sinking steamer in his shirt. They had some biscuits and water in the boat, but few of them had sufficient energy to partake of food.
The Wreck
Wreck Card 1219 charted SS Wilston as NDW PA (1916) in position 583840N, 023100W. (see chart below) This position was surveyed by Netsurvey with MBES. No wreck was found and the card was amended to dead.
Chart 2179 SS Wilston (PA) (UKHO)
The wreck card stated the SS Wilston was lost to a mine laid by the German Raider SMS ''Möwe'' but this is a long way from her minefield off Whitten Head, off the north coast of Scotland. Also the position is a long way east of the route into Scapa Flow. A study of documents held in the National Archive in Kew, ADM 137/1888, show that the SS Wilston passed over the minefield a long way south of the charted position. The Bi-Monthly mine sweeping reports also doubt the UKHO position (see below).
Bi-Monthly Minesweeping Report Feb 16th - 29th February 1916 - ADM 116-1515
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ADM 137/1888
Secret packs of the Commander in Chief Grand Fleet Volume VIII: Pack 005: Sections L and M
(Folios 78-111: Miscellaneous vessels.)
7. An enquiry held into the case of the collier transport ''Wilston'' , the loss of which was reported in Home Fleets letter of 19th February, 1916, No 370/H.F.0020 indicates that the vessel was blown up on the Moray Firth minefield, and evidence obtained from T.B.D's (torpedo Boat destroyers) on patrol shows that masters of ships habitually disregard the existence of minefields.
8. In this connection I attach a copy of the sailing orders issued to the master of the ''Wilston''. These are most ambiguous at 'A' and very carelessly worded by the captain-in-charge , River Tyne. They may easily be read as permitting the ship to cross the parallel of 58 30N in any longitude, and if a master so interprets them he may pass directly over the Moray Firth minefield.
8. In this connection I attach a copy of the sailing orders issued to the master of the ''Wilston''. These are most ambiguous at 'A' and very carelessly worded by the captain-in-charge , River Tyne. They may easily be read as permitting the ship to cross the parallel of 58 30N in any longitude, and if a master so interprets them he may pass directly over the Moray Firth minefield.
Sailing Orders
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Sir,
I have the honour to report that in accordance with your orders, I have today examined the survivors of the Admiralty Collier 'Wilston' which was sunk in Moray Firth at 2.30 am Tuesday February 16th. (? 15th in pencil)
2. The only two witnesses who were able to adduce any evidence of value were - Albert Chisholm, 2nd Mate and Robert MacDonald, Seaman. Chisholm was the officer of the watch at the time of the disaster, and MacDonald was lookout man. Both men were, at the time, stationed on the bridge, on the starboard and port sides respectively.
3. According to the evidence of these two witnesses, the 'Wilston' left the Tyne under sealed orders and neither the Captain nor the 1st Mate (both of whom were drowned) informed the 2nd Mate or the men to the ships destination, though it was generally understood to be Scapa. No land was sighted until 5 p.m. on Monday evening when low lying land was sighted two points on the starboard bow. The Captain remarked to the third Mate, who was temporarily on the bridge, that if he had had time to do so before dark he would have anchored in Sinclair Bay. Instead of doing so, he shortly afterwards turned the ship round away from the land on a S.E. course and reduced to half speed. At 7 p.m. the course was altered a point or two to the starboard and during the night the ship gradually altered course in again towards the land. The sea was moderate, and though cloudy, there was plenty of light from the moon.
I have the honour to report that in accordance with your orders, I have today examined the survivors of the Admiralty Collier 'Wilston' which was sunk in Moray Firth at 2.30 am Tuesday February 16th. (? 15th in pencil)
2. The only two witnesses who were able to adduce any evidence of value were - Albert Chisholm, 2nd Mate and Robert MacDonald, Seaman. Chisholm was the officer of the watch at the time of the disaster, and MacDonald was lookout man. Both men were, at the time, stationed on the bridge, on the starboard and port sides respectively.
3. According to the evidence of these two witnesses, the 'Wilston' left the Tyne under sealed orders and neither the Captain nor the 1st Mate (both of whom were drowned) informed the 2nd Mate or the men to the ships destination, though it was generally understood to be Scapa. No land was sighted until 5 p.m. on Monday evening when low lying land was sighted two points on the starboard bow. The Captain remarked to the third Mate, who was temporarily on the bridge, that if he had had time to do so before dark he would have anchored in Sinclair Bay. Instead of doing so, he shortly afterwards turned the ship round away from the land on a S.E. course and reduced to half speed. At 7 p.m. the course was altered a point or two to the starboard and during the night the ship gradually altered course in again towards the land. The sea was moderate, and though cloudy, there was plenty of light from the moon.
4. At 2.30 a.m. a sudden, severe shock was felt and a few seconds afterwards a mass of debris, coal dust and steam shot up from the stokehold hatch, just abaft the bridge. There was no sign of any upheaval of water alongside the ship; in fact, until the ship healed over, the decks were dry. There was no flame, fumes or smell from explosion. the two men clambered down on deck and ran forward to rouse the hands in the forecastle and then aft to clear the boats. The captain was also seen to leave hi deck cabin and go aft. The 3rd engineer who was on watch at the time (and subsequently died of exposure ) said to Chisholm that he had been ''lifted off his feet'' by a shock underneath. The ship gave a sudden list to port, then righted herself for a minute, and heeled over to port until her decks were awash. She sank in 6 minutes on an even keel.
5. All evidence goes to show that the ship was mined underneath the stokehold just abaft the bridge on the port side and before the boilers. Her mean draught was 19ft 4in, with a greater depth of 11 inches aft.
6. Both lifeboats got clear of the ship. The two witnesses referred to were in the port lifeboat. After picking up 3 survivors, a small sea anchor was laid out. The boat under the influence of a strong westerly wind and sea drifted to the eastward at a rate of about 2 knots. At 7 am the Paps of Caithness were seen distant - so both witnesses insist - about 25 miles, though they could not tell bearing. MacDonald is a Caithness man and knows the Paps well by sight. Having got the crew of the other boat into their own, they set sail, but could lay no nearer than a course parallel to the coast and N.E. The boat however made a great deal of leeway. At 11 a.m., the wind having got more southerly, they hauled up a little to the Northward. The boats speed through the water, however, was very slow, only about 2 1/2 to 3 knots. At 12.30 they were picked up by the small cargo boat ''Express''. Her Captain remarked to Chisholm that it was fortunate he met them as they were ''nearly 30 miles off the land'' and had little chance of fetching it. At 1 p.m. the ''Express'' proceeded, and steamed about 7 knots, arrived in Fraserburgh shortly before 6 p.m.
7. The forgoing evidence strongly suggests that the ship, when mined, was approximately in Lat 58.5 N 3 53 W (in pencil X ? 2.50 )
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant,
5. All evidence goes to show that the ship was mined underneath the stokehold just abaft the bridge on the port side and before the boilers. Her mean draught was 19ft 4in, with a greater depth of 11 inches aft.
6. Both lifeboats got clear of the ship. The two witnesses referred to were in the port lifeboat. After picking up 3 survivors, a small sea anchor was laid out. The boat under the influence of a strong westerly wind and sea drifted to the eastward at a rate of about 2 knots. At 7 am the Paps of Caithness were seen distant - so both witnesses insist - about 25 miles, though they could not tell bearing. MacDonald is a Caithness man and knows the Paps well by sight. Having got the crew of the other boat into their own, they set sail, but could lay no nearer than a course parallel to the coast and N.E. The boat however made a great deal of leeway. At 11 a.m., the wind having got more southerly, they hauled up a little to the Northward. The boats speed through the water, however, was very slow, only about 2 1/2 to 3 knots. At 12.30 they were picked up by the small cargo boat ''Express''. Her Captain remarked to Chisholm that it was fortunate he met them as they were ''nearly 30 miles off the land'' and had little chance of fetching it. At 1 p.m. the ''Express'' proceeded, and steamed about 7 knots, arrived in Fraserburgh shortly before 6 p.m.
7. The forgoing evidence strongly suggests that the ship, when mined, was approximately in Lat 58.5 N 3 53 W (in pencil X ? 2.50 )
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant,
Commander.
The Rear Admiral
Peterhead.
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SECRET
IRON DUKE
18th February 1916
No 370/H.F. 0020.
Sir,
Be pleased to inform the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty that the Collier Transport No. 418, S.S. 'Wilston,' carrying 4000 tons of coal for vessels at Scapa, was blown up and sunk by a mine in the Moray Firth at about 3 a.m. on the 15th February. The survivors were picked up by the British steamer 'Express' at noon on that day in latitude 58 27 N longitude 2 29W and landed at Fraserburgh on the same afternoon.
2. Owing to the master and Mate having been drowned, the position in which the ''Wilston'' struck the mine and her previous course cannot be ascertained with any accuracy. Three positions have been given:-
(i) Latitude 58 36N Longitude 2 39W.
(ii) '' 58 55N '' 2 31W.
(iii) '' 58 09N '' 3 03W
These have been searched by sweepers and no mines have been discovered in or near them
3. It is probable that the ''Wilston'' was passing through the unsearched area of the Moray Firth minefield, but it is uncertain whether she was proceeding from Kinnaird Head direct to Noss Head or had passed into the Moray Firth by the South Channel and altered course to the Northward too soon.
In either case she was infringing on orders given in Notice to Mariners no 7 of 1916 and also confidential Monthly Order No.17 of 1916. Had she obeyed these orders she would not have been blown up.
4. This is the second occurrence of a collier passing through the Moray Firth Minefield in defiance of regulations. The patrols in the vicinity on many occasions have reported British ships for being in the prohibited area at night, and it is submitted that the attention of the Board of Trade may be drawn to the unnecessary loss of life and shipping entailed by the disobedience of the regulations issued.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient servant
(signed) C.E Madden.
for Admiral.
IRON DUKE
18th February 1916
No 370/H.F. 0020.
Sir,
Be pleased to inform the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty that the Collier Transport No. 418, S.S. 'Wilston,' carrying 4000 tons of coal for vessels at Scapa, was blown up and sunk by a mine in the Moray Firth at about 3 a.m. on the 15th February. The survivors were picked up by the British steamer 'Express' at noon on that day in latitude 58 27 N longitude 2 29W and landed at Fraserburgh on the same afternoon.
2. Owing to the master and Mate having been drowned, the position in which the ''Wilston'' struck the mine and her previous course cannot be ascertained with any accuracy. Three positions have been given:-
(i) Latitude 58 36N Longitude 2 39W.
(ii) '' 58 55N '' 2 31W.
(iii) '' 58 09N '' 3 03W
These have been searched by sweepers and no mines have been discovered in or near them
3. It is probable that the ''Wilston'' was passing through the unsearched area of the Moray Firth minefield, but it is uncertain whether she was proceeding from Kinnaird Head direct to Noss Head or had passed into the Moray Firth by the South Channel and altered course to the Northward too soon.
In either case she was infringing on orders given in Notice to Mariners no 7 of 1916 and also confidential Monthly Order No.17 of 1916. Had she obeyed these orders she would not have been blown up.
4. This is the second occurrence of a collier passing through the Moray Firth Minefield in defiance of regulations. The patrols in the vicinity on many occasions have reported British ships for being in the prohibited area at night, and it is submitted that the attention of the Board of Trade may be drawn to the unnecessary loss of life and shipping entailed by the disobedience of the regulations issued.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient servant
(signed) C.E Madden.
for Admiral.
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Red flags plotted to mark positions from the above document. UKHO
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SAILING ORDERS TO COLLIER ''WILSTON''. (See Above)
Submitted - The attached is a copy of the sailing orders issued to the collier ''Wilston'' by the Captain-in Charge, river Tyne
2. I should like to bring to your notice the ambiguity of these orders at ''A''.
I think it quite possible that, after arriving in the position 57.40N 1.20W., the master steered for a point on the parallel of 58.30 N, nearst to Scapa Flow, the port for which he was making, and the actual course made good was probably that shown in the enclosed track chart. (see below)
3. The Notice to Mariners mentioned (No.1016 of 1915) in the sailing orders has been cancelled by Notice to Mariners No. 1273 dated 29th December 1915.
4. No mention of a minefield is made in any of these orders.
5. The sailing orders would appear to be a draft which has been ready for issue to colliers for some considerable time.
2. I should like to bring to your notice the ambiguity of these orders at ''A''.
I think it quite possible that, after arriving in the position 57.40N 1.20W., the master steered for a point on the parallel of 58.30 N, nearst to Scapa Flow, the port for which he was making, and the actual course made good was probably that shown in the enclosed track chart. (see below)
3. The Notice to Mariners mentioned (No.1016 of 1915) in the sailing orders has been cancelled by Notice to Mariners No. 1273 dated 29th December 1915.
4. No mention of a minefield is made in any of these orders.
5. The sailing orders would appear to be a draft which has been ready for issue to colliers for some considerable time.
VICE ADMIRAL
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Route SS Wilston is thought to have taken over mined area. ADM 137/1888
UKHO Wreck 1161
It is possible that the wreck 1161, which UKHO have named ''probable Jacona'' could, be the SS Wilston, as the records below show,(ADM 137/1888) the vessel did not take a direct route to Scapa Flow, but set a course for the mainland to pass south and then inside the minefield up to Wick.
Land was sighted it was considered to dark to continue so the SS Wilston turned SE and would wait till daylight before approaching the land. This wreck is right on the SW mine line.
Land was sighted it was considered to dark to continue so the SS Wilston turned SE and would wait till daylight before approaching the land. This wreck is right on the SW mine line.
Chart showing normal route (red) and possible route (blue) with wreck 1161 in red circle
Note: This wreck was dived as part of Project Meteor 2024 and was found to be the wreck of SS Jacona.
UKHO Wreck 58699
Another candidate for SS Wilton could be the unknown wreck with Wreck Card 58699. This wreck has a surveyed length of 96m and is on the mine line that sank HMS Lynx and the trawler ST Commander Boyle. It is shown on the chart below as ''Unknown 2''
Chart showing losses in the NW part of the minefield. UKHO
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MBES of Wreck 58699 (Unknown 2) NetSurvey/UKHO
The Dive.
On the 19th August 2024 the wreck 58699 (Unknown 2) was dived. It was found to be a large steamship loaded with large lumps of coal. The ship had 2 single ended boilers and a triple expansion engine. Due to its configuration, cargo and proximity to other minefield losses then it is probable that this is the wreck of SS Wilston but nothing yet has been found to confirm this.
Stills from video on probable SS Wilston - Joe Robinson
Crew Lost †15/02/1916
CAMPBELL, Allan (39), Second Engineer, Mercantile Marine, Son of Sarah Campbell (nee McGregor), and the late John Campbell; husband of Catherine Campbell (nee Park), of 55, Walton St., Shawlands, Glasgow. Born at Glasgow, Remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial.
DADD, John (39), Able Seaman, SS Wilston, Mercantile Marine, Husband of Mary Dadd, of 25, George St., South Shields. Born at Margate, Remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial.
GRAHAM, Robert (57), First Mate, Mercantile Marine, Son of the late Archibald and Elizabeth Graham (nee Ferguson); husband of Catherine Graham (nee Mitchell), of 2, Lyle Rd., Fort Matilda, Gourock, Greenock. Born at Rothesay, Buried in Gourock Cemetery.
Daily Record - Saturday 26 February 1916
Mr. Robert Graham, chief mate of the Glasgow steamer Wilston, who lost his life when that vessel foundered on 16th inst, is a Rothesay man, his father having been at one time charge of the baths at Glenburn Hydro. Mr. Graham jumped from his vessel when the disaster occurred, but owing to the heavy teas and strong wind the boats were unable to reach him. Eight members of the crew lost their lives.
Daily Record - Saturday 26 February 1916
Mr. Robert Graham, chief mate of the Glasgow steamer Wilston, who lost his life when that vessel foundered on 16th inst, is a Rothesay man, his father having been at one time charge of the baths at Glenburn Hydro. Mr. Graham jumped from his vessel when the disaster occurred, but owing to the heavy teas and strong wind the boats were unable to reach him. Eight members of the crew lost their lives.
GRAY Thomas (42), Fireman, Mercantile Marine, Born at Newcastle, Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial
HOLMES, John Postgate Sleightholm, (35), Fireman, SS Wilston, Mercantile Marine, Husband of Annie Bravey (formerly Holmes), of 30, Hardwick St., South Shields. Born at South Shields. Remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial.
KEAY, Thomas (48), Master, Mercantile Marine, Son of the late John and Helen Keay, Remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial.
Dundee Courier - Monday 21 February 1916
TAYPORT CAPTAIN GOES DOWN WITH ILL-FATED STEAMER WILSTON. Captain Keay. who went down with the lost steamer Wilston, was in the Gem Line for a number of years, and when that company was wound up he transferred his services to the firm of W. L. Miller & Co., Glasgow, the owners of the ill-fated steamer. He was about 47 years of age. He was the second son of the late John Keay, shipmaster, Tayport.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 26 February 1916
WAITED TOO LONG
Dundee Captain Goes Down With His Ship.
NORTH SEA DISASTER
"The most lamentable incident in the whole disaster was the loss of our brave captain. It was purely self-sacrifice."
The skipper referred to in these terms by one of his crew was Captain Thomas Keay of the Glasgow steamer Wilston, which foundered last week in the North Sea with the loss of seven lives while on a voyage from the Tyne to Scapa Flow. Captain Keay resided at Ogilvie Street, Tayport, and was well known both in Tayport and Dundee.
Two brothers, Fred and John Craig, 30 Victoria Street, Dundee, survived the ordeal, and the former gave a graphic story of the disaster. Mr Craig, who was the steward, rushed on deck when the disaster occurred, and helped to launch the boats. He took his position in the starboard boat. The remaining number of the crew were being hurriedly transferred to the boats, but Captain Keay, despite the advice of his men, refused to leave the ship until the others were safely landed in the lifeboats. He lingered too long, however, and, along with two others, went down with his ship. As they disappeared, the survivors heard three shrill cries for help, but no assistance could be given to the brave men. The ship foundered in about five minutes.
At the Mercy of the Sea.
There were in all 17 men in the two boats. Several of the survivors were very scantily clothed, and, to add to their sufferings and privations, a very heavy sea was running. The disaster occurred around 2 a.m., and at the time it was intensely cold. The men huddled themselves at the bottom of the boats. The port boat became disabled, and the occupants had, therefore, to be transferred to the starboard boat. This again proved an extremely dangerous operation, and it was fortunate that it was carried out without loss of life.
Finally the men's cries for help were heard on board the Scottish steamer Express, and, with all possible promptitude, the men were taken aboard the steamer. In all, they had been ten hours drifting in the open sea.
The news of the loss of Captain Keay was received at Tayport with deep regret. Following in the footsteps of his father, he chose the sea as a profession, and by perseverance and ability soon reached the position he occupied. He was unmarried, and has four married sisters residing at Tayport and a brother serving at the front.
Dundee Courier - Friday 03 March 1916 & in Dundee Courier - Tuesday 29 February 1916
NOTICE. All Parties baring CLAIMS the late Captain THOMAS KEAY, S.S. Wilston, who resided in Ogilvie Street, Tayport, are requested lodge the same at once with the SUBSCRIBERS, as Agents for his Testamentary Trustees. JOHNSTOSE SIMPSON & THOMSON, Solicitor*. 87 Commercial Street, Dundee, 28th February, 1916.
Dundee Courier - Monday 21 February 1916
TAYPORT CAPTAIN GOES DOWN WITH ILL-FATED STEAMER WILSTON. Captain Keay. who went down with the lost steamer Wilston, was in the Gem Line for a number of years, and when that company was wound up he transferred his services to the firm of W. L. Miller & Co., Glasgow, the owners of the ill-fated steamer. He was about 47 years of age. He was the second son of the late John Keay, shipmaster, Tayport.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 26 February 1916
WAITED TOO LONG
Dundee Captain Goes Down With His Ship.
NORTH SEA DISASTER
"The most lamentable incident in the whole disaster was the loss of our brave captain. It was purely self-sacrifice."
The skipper referred to in these terms by one of his crew was Captain Thomas Keay of the Glasgow steamer Wilston, which foundered last week in the North Sea with the loss of seven lives while on a voyage from the Tyne to Scapa Flow. Captain Keay resided at Ogilvie Street, Tayport, and was well known both in Tayport and Dundee.
Two brothers, Fred and John Craig, 30 Victoria Street, Dundee, survived the ordeal, and the former gave a graphic story of the disaster. Mr Craig, who was the steward, rushed on deck when the disaster occurred, and helped to launch the boats. He took his position in the starboard boat. The remaining number of the crew were being hurriedly transferred to the boats, but Captain Keay, despite the advice of his men, refused to leave the ship until the others were safely landed in the lifeboats. He lingered too long, however, and, along with two others, went down with his ship. As they disappeared, the survivors heard three shrill cries for help, but no assistance could be given to the brave men. The ship foundered in about five minutes.
At the Mercy of the Sea.
There were in all 17 men in the two boats. Several of the survivors were very scantily clothed, and, to add to their sufferings and privations, a very heavy sea was running. The disaster occurred around 2 a.m., and at the time it was intensely cold. The men huddled themselves at the bottom of the boats. The port boat became disabled, and the occupants had, therefore, to be transferred to the starboard boat. This again proved an extremely dangerous operation, and it was fortunate that it was carried out without loss of life.
Finally the men's cries for help were heard on board the Scottish steamer Express, and, with all possible promptitude, the men were taken aboard the steamer. In all, they had been ten hours drifting in the open sea.
The news of the loss of Captain Keay was received at Tayport with deep regret. Following in the footsteps of his father, he chose the sea as a profession, and by perseverance and ability soon reached the position he occupied. He was unmarried, and has four married sisters residing at Tayport and a brother serving at the front.
Dundee Courier - Friday 03 March 1916 & in Dundee Courier - Tuesday 29 February 1916
NOTICE. All Parties baring CLAIMS the late Captain THOMAS KEAY, S.S. Wilston, who resided in Ogilvie Street, Tayport, are requested lodge the same at once with the SUBSCRIBERS, as Agents for his Testamentary Trustees. JOHNSTOSE SIMPSON & THOMSON, Solicitor*. 87 Commercial Street, Dundee, 28th February, 1916.
SIMPSON Thomas (50), Fireman & Trimmer, Mercantile Marine, Born at South Shields, Remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial.
SINCLAIR, Thomas Kelly (22), Third Engineer, Mercantile Marine, Son of William and Elizabeth Sinclair (nee Kelly), of 178, Paisley Rd. West, Glasgow. Born at Glasgow, Remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial.
Newcastle Journal - Saturday 19 February 1916
''In this way the chief engineer and seaman named •T. Redmond were rescued, and the third engineer, Sinclair, was picked up.Having apparently just come off duty and being scantily clad, Sinclair was exhausted condition, and suffered terribly from the cold. Some of his mates gave him what clothing they could spare, but got gradually worse, and subsequently died from the exposure.''
Newcastle Journal - Saturday 19 February 1916
''In this way the chief engineer and seaman named •T. Redmond were rescued, and the third engineer, Sinclair, was picked up.Having apparently just come off duty and being scantily clad, Sinclair was exhausted condition, and suffered terribly from the cold. Some of his mates gave him what clothing they could spare, but got gradually worse, and subsequently died from the exposure.''
Tower Hill Memorial
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Tower Hill Memorial Photos: LiWD Collection
Photo: LiWD
