Maritime record MWX2095 - Ehen

French barque, 1890, came ashore in thick fog at Mutton Cove, Portland and subsequently broke up

`...in dense fog on Monday night this French vessel went ashore on the rocks not far from where the SS BOURNEMOUTH became a total wreck recently. At high water she went in close to the cliffs, where one seaman managed to get ashore, climbing the almost perpendicular surface. On the way to the lighthouse to raise the alarm, he met a Coastguard on his beat, who was still in ignorance of the wreck due to fog. The rocket lifesaving apparatus was rigged, and with the help of the Coastguard, the captain, his wife and the rest of the crew were saved. (1)(4) French barque EHEN of Havre, Pray master...went ashore at 8pm on the Bill of Portland between Blacknor and the upper lighthouse. Vessel is well onto the rocks, apparently holed. Prospect of salvage very doubtful...ten men and captains wife saved. Ship probably total wreck. (5) Barque EHEN appears to be still holding together...Tide ebbs and flows through her. Salvers will not entertain salvage cargo any terms. Expect ship to go to pieces next high water. (6) 21-APR-1890, EHEN, French barque became a total wreck at Mutton Cove Portland.(7) Year Built: 1863. Builder: Kennedy. Where Built: Whitehaven. Owner: A E Pray, Paris. Master: Roberts. Crew: 10 Passengers: 1. Additional source: Weymouth Library photo.neg.No.38/6 n 21st April 1890 the French Barque Ehen drifted onto the rocks off Portland Bill. Holed, and taking on water, the crew of ten, and the single passenger, took to the ships boats and fortunately managed to make their way to the shore safely. The Ehen drifted off the rocks and floated into Mutton cove where her cargo of rice and pickles was successfully salvaged. The wreck later broke up.(9)

Record last edited

Apr 4 2024 2:10PM