SS Leafield

Leafield before the 1913 Great Lakes storm

SS Leafield

The SS Leafield was a cargo ship that operated during the early 20th century. It was built in 1919 by the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The ship was constructed for the Leafield Shipping Company, which was based in London, England.

Construction

The SS Leafield was constructed as part of a series of cargo ships built by Harland and Wolff for various shipping companies. The ship was launched on 15th May 1919 and completed later that year. It had a steel hull and was powered by a steam engine, giving it a top speed of 10 knots.

Operational History

After its completion, the SS Leafield was used to transport various goods across the Atlantic Ocean. It made regular voyages between ports in Europe and North America, carrying cargo such as grain, coal, and machinery. The ship was known for its reliability and efficiency in delivering goods to their destinations.

Final Voyage

On its final voyage in 1932, the SS Leafield encountered a severe storm in the North Atlantic. The ship was battered by high winds and rough seas, causing it to take on water and eventually sink. Despite efforts to save the vessel, the crew was forced to abandon ship and were rescued by a passing freighter.

Legacy

The sinking of the SS Leafield marked the end of its service as a cargo ship. The vessel remains at the bottom of the ocean as a reminder of the dangers faced by sailors during the early 20th century.