Episode 170 - SS Choctaw
Summary
Hosts Taylor and Tanner discuss the SS Choctaw, a rare "intermediate" vessel built in 1892 that blended whaleback and conventional designs. The episode details its 1915 collision with the Canadian canaler Wakanda in heavy fog on Lake Huron, resulting in the Choctaw's rapid sinking and the rescue of all 22 crew members. They also cover the subsequent legal battle, which found both ships at fault, and the ongoing efforts to locate the wreck.
Topics discussed
Introduction to Beyond the Breakers
Guest introduction and recent media
Comparing Russian and English Lord of the Rings translations
Music recommendations and TV show discussions
Promoting the podcast's Redbubble store
Introduction to the SS Choctaw and Great Lakes context
Local history and Northern Michigan University connection
Technical specifications of the SS Choctaw
The unique 'tumble home' hull design
Sister vessels: The Andaste and the Yuma
Launch, early career, and cargo routes
Early incident: Collision with the Waldo
The Great Lakes Storm of 1913
WWI era humor and newspaper advertisements
The collision: Fog, navigation, and the Wakanda
Background on the SS Wakanda
The Welland Canal and the moment of impact
The sinking and crew rescue efforts
Aftermath: Rescue, humor, and WWI context
Newspaper reports and WWI headlines
Legal proceedings: Libel and fault arguments
Court ruling on lookout duties and damages
Modern search efforts and discovery in 2017
Current status of the wreck and sanctuary records
Closing remarks and season outlook
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