History Daily
Saturday Matinee: Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs
May 17, 2025
Rich Napolitano, host of Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs, dives deep into the tragic tale of the Princess Sophia, which sank during a fierce snowstorm in 1918. He shares the harrowing experiences of passengers and crew, detailing their struggle for survival amid chaos. Hear about the legal aftermath surrounding the disaster and the emotional toll it took on the Dawson City community. Plus, discover the moving story of Tommy, the lone survivor dog, and the memorials honoring the victims of this maritime catastrophe.
39:51
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Quick takeaways
- The tragic sinking of the Princess Sophia on October 25, 1918, resulted from severe weather complicating rescue efforts, leading to 353 losses.
- The aftermath of the disaster deeply affected Dawson City's community, prompting legal battles over liability and commemorative efforts for the victims.
Deep dives
Tragic Timeline of the Princess Sophia
The Princess Sophia sank on October 25, 1918, during a severe snowstorm while carrying 353 passengers and crew. Initially, the ship struck Vanderbilt Reef but appeared stable, leading passengers to believe they were safe. However, as conditions worsened, key decisions regarding the rescue were hampered by the chaos of the storm. Ultimately, the ship broke apart under the immense pressure of the waves and sank, marking one of the worst maritime disasters in the Pacific Northwest.
