The United States Lightship Nantucket (Nantucket/LV-117) was a ship permanently anchored about fifty miles from southeast of Nantucket. The purpose of the Lightship Nantucket was to guide fellow ships through the perilous shoals beyond the island and was able to do so thanks to her faithful and dependable crew. For many years the Lightship Nantucket served her purpose and saved countless of others from horrible accidents, however that did not last forever.
On May 15th, 1934, a blinding fog enveloped the entire south coast, causing numerous navigational setbacks. It was at this time that the famous Olympic, sister ship of the Titanic, was traveling in the trans-Atlantic shipping lanes. The Olympic was able to pick up the Lightship Nantucket’s radio and fog signal around 10:55 am and the captain issued for their course to be changed along with slowing their speed. Valiant attempts were made to determine the Lightship Nantucket’s exact location, however it was far too late. With barely any warning, the Olympic struck the Nantucket’s broadside and sent her to the sea bed below.
On that ship was Seaman John Fortes, First Cook Isaac Pina, Seaman Ernest B. George, Second Cook Alfredo Monteiro, Seaman Matheus F. Rodriques, and many others also from New Bedford. Sadly these five brave souls did not survive the sinking. It was also later learned the Olympic was able to rescue other crew members however the captain and three of the survivors later died of their injuries. With such a tragedy so close to home, word spread quickly and soon after a cenotaph was made to commemorate those lost on the Lightship Nantucket. Though such a disaster is never easy, we can still honor their memory and never forget all those lost.