26 Jan 1906
Page 1
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Newspaper
Seattle Star
Location
Seattle, Washington, United States of America
Date
Jan 26, 1906
Page
1
The Valencia wreck survivors arrived in Seattle aboard the City of Topeka after a 23 person rescue, with McCarthy and others praised for lifesaving efforts. Survivors, worn and penniless, received clothing and support from Pacific Coast Steamship. several will sail to California as arrangements follow.
The Lorne arrived from the Valencia wreck scene with 14 volunteers from HMS Egeria to aid survivors. They approached within 100 yards as wreckage and gear floated, but no bodies were seen. One survivor was later reported at Toquart. The Shamrock brought three Valencia survivors to Toquart and two bodies from Turret Island.
Statements from survivors assess Captain Johnson’s actions during the Valencia catastrophe. Neighbors note he chose to stay with the ship rather than save himself, praising his courage and cheerful demeanor amid the disaster.
A list of Valencia survivors arriving in Seattle this morning includes C. Allison a passenger from St Paul and L Willits from San Francisco. Other names and occupations appear with corresponding San Francisco and Seattle addresses and roles such as cook fireman waiter and engineer.
Survivors battled to shore on the City of Topeka after a wreck off Vancouver Island as a lone line hung above the surf for hours. Volunteers failed to reach a landing, the line severed in a rising sea, and the Valencia broke apart with all aboard perishing in the surf.
Walter Frank of the steerage department was washed overboard the Valencia but was rescued by Walter Raymond of the officers’ mess. James Cameron, the second cook, drowned leaving a wife and six children in Oakland. Second Officer Peterson described battles with the whirlpool as the vessel neared the rescue raft. A Lee Besse resolution seeks reimbursement for jet-related expenses in Gematar Mitchell of Orewor.
First Assistant Engineer T. F. Carrick declares that no officer or crew member deserted women or children during the Valencia disaster. Survivors describe heroic efforts to save passengers as lifeboats failed and life rafts faded, with Captain Johnson and crew praised for their humane actions. Carrick, rescued after four hours in cold waters, confirms the crew’s dedication and says reports of cowardice are false. He plans to return to San Francisco after a brief Seattle stay.
First assistant engineer Carrick refutes Chief Engineer Downing shooting himself during the Valencia catastrophe. He recalls Downing’s courage and urges passengers to stay calm as the ship foundered. Carrick notes Downing remained at his post until the end and that Captain Johnson urged steadfast rescue efforts.
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