This Day in U.S. Coast Guard History - April 19
1813-A tremendous explosion aboard the cutter Gallatin, commanded by Master John H. Silliman (who was not aboard at the time) blew off her quarterdeck while the cutter was tied up in Charleston, South Carolina. The cutter was quickly engulfed in flames and then sank at anchor. The crew had been cleaning and storing the cutter's small arms when the explosion occurred, probably in the magazine. At least three of the crew were killed instantly and five others were seriously wounded. The cause of the explosion was never determined although rumors of sabotage were circulated at the time. 1909- Pamet River, MA- The sloop Stranger was anchored 3/4 mile SE of station. The Life-Saving crew boarded her from a surfboat.
This Day in Coast Guard History – April 19
1813-A tremendous explosion aboard the cutter Gallatin, commanded by Master John H. Silliman (who was not aboard at the time) blew off her quarterdeck while the cutter was tied up in Charleston, South Carolina. The cutter was quickly engulfed in flames and then sank at anchor. The crew had been cleaning and storing the cutter's small arms when the explosion occurred, probably in the magazine. At least three of the crew were killed instantly and five others were seriously wounded. The cause of the explosion was never determined although rumors of sabotage were circulated at the time. 1909- Pamet River, MA- The sloop Stranger was anchored 3/4 mile SE of station. The Life-Saving crew boarded her from a surfboat.
