NCPI Workmark
Articles in regional publications that pertain to a wide range of North Carolina-related topics.

A Mystery of the Sea: An Unmanned Ship that Sailed Itself

Record #:
34791
Author(s):
Abstract:
In April 1921, the schooner JAMES E. NEWSOM struck Bluefish Lump Shoal and grounded near Cape Lookout, North Carolina. The sailing master and crew abandoned the vessel and began rowing towards the Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Meanwhile, several of the Coast Guardsmen noticed the vessel aground and went out to investigate. Finding NEWSOM empty, they returned to the station where they met the crew. The following day, the station lookout sighted a sail on the horizon. As the vessel grew nearer, the Guardsman recognized the NEWSOM which had gracefully ungrounded and drifted into shore. The crew soon boarded and found NEWSOM in good working condition.
Source:
The Researcher (NoCar F 262 C23 R47), Vol. 25 Issue 2, Summer/Fall 2010, p9-11