What Secrets Does the 1929 Connecticut Shipwreck Near Nantucket Hold?

The recent discovery of the fishing boat ST Seiner, which sank off the coast of Nantucket in 1929 with 21 crew members aboard, offers a poignant reminder of maritime history and the enduring impact of loss at sea. After nearly a century, the wreck was located by Atlantic Wreck Salvage's search vessel D/V Tenacious, shedding light on the tragic event that occurred during a storm.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The ST Seiner sank in January 1929, with no survivors found.
• The ship was located in 2022, but identification was only confirmed in July 2025.
• Search efforts were initiated by the Coast Guard and the Portland Trawling Company.
• The crew hailed from various regions, including the US and Canada.
• The discovery may provide closure for the descendants of those lost at sea.

The Journey of the ST Seiner

The ST Seiner left New London, Connecticut, on 9 January 1929, embarking on what would become a fateful voyage. The last communication from the captain was sent to the Portland Trawling Company on 18 January, detailing that the ship was on course but due at an unknown destination on 22 January. After that date, the ST Seiner vanished without a trace.

Search and Rescue Operations

In the aftermath of the ST Seiner's disappearance, extensive search and rescue operations were conducted by both the Coast Guard and the Portland Trawling Company. Despite the efforts, no survivors or debris were found, which deepened the mystery surrounding the ship's fate. It was widely believed that the vessel succumbed to a storm, a common peril for fishing boats operating in the turbulent waters off the New England coast.

Finding the Wreck

Fast forward to 2022, when the D/V Tenacious, operated by Atlantic Wreck Salvage, reported finding a shipwreck approximately 125 miles off Nantucket on Georges Bank. However, due to time constraints and challenging weather conditions, the team was unable to dive and verify the identity of the wreck at that time.

Identification of the ST Seiner

In July 2025, the team returned to the site equipped for a thorough investigation. Over two days, they conducted multiple dives that ultimately confirmed the identity of the wreck as the ST Seiner. This finding marked a significant milestone in maritime archaeology and historical research.

The Human Element of the Tragedy

The loss of the ST Seiner was not just a maritime incident; it represented the heartbreak of families who never learned what happened to their loved ones. The crew members hailed from various states, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, and even Newfoundland, Canada. Each of these men left behind friends and family who would have been affected by their sudden disappearance.

Reflections on the Discovery

Jennifer Sellitti from Atlantic Wreck Salvage poignantly remarked on the bittersweet nature of such discoveries. While it is a cause for celebration to uncover historical shipwrecks, it also serves as a solemn reminder of the lives lost at sea. She expressed hope that the identification of the ST Seiner would bring some measure of closure to the descendants of those who perished.

The Importance of Maritime History

Shipwrecks like the ST Seiner are crucial to understanding maritime history and the dangers faced by seafarers. They serve as a reminder of the challenges posed by unpredictable weather, the perils of the sea, and the personal stories of those who risked their lives in pursuit of their livelihoods. Each wreck has a story to tell, and the ST Seiner's discovery contributes to the larger narrative of maritime heritage.

What Happens Next?

With the ST Seiner identified, future efforts may focus on further exploration of the wreck site. Maritime archaeologists and historians may study the ship to gain insights into the conditions of the time and the technologies used in fishing vessels during the late 1920s. Additionally, this discovery could lead to further investigations into other missing ships from the era, potentially unveiling more untold stories from the past.

Preserving Maritime Heritage

As underwater exploration technology advances, the potential for discovering other historic shipwrecks increases. Each find not only enriches our understanding of the past but also helps preserve the memory of those who sailed these waters. Efforts to document and protect these sites are crucial for future generations.

Conclusion

The recovery of the ST Seiner is a significant milestone for both maritime archaeology and the families of the lost crew members. It serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by fishermen and the enduring human stories intertwined with maritime history. As we reflect on this discovery, it prompts us to consider how we remember those who came before us and the lessons their stories teach us about resilience and loss.

FAQs

What caused the ST Seiner to sink?

It is believed that the ST Seiner sank due to a storm, a common hazard for fishing vessels operating off the New England coast during winter months.

How many crew members were on board the ST Seiner?

The ST Seiner had 21 crew members aboard when it sank in January 1929.

Where was the wreck of the ST Seiner found?

The wreck was discovered approximately 125 miles off the coast of Nantucket on Georges Bank, a well-known fishing area.

What efforts were made to find the ST Seiner after it sank?

Extensive search and rescue operations were undertaken by the Coast Guard and the Portland Trawling Company, but unfortunately, no survivors or wreckage were found at that time.

What does the discovery of the ST Seiner mean for the families of the lost crew?

The identification of the ST Seiner offers a measure of closure for the families and descendants of the crew members who were lost, acknowledging their stories and losses.