Mystery surrounds the fate of the London ship Eiskasoni, which was bound for Limerick with a cargo of grain from Portland (Oregon). The ship was expected to arrive off the coast on February 10th, and at Lloyd’s signal stations in the Scilly Isles and at the Lizard, officers were instructed to direct the vessel to Limerick upon sighting her. On that day, a large British ship was spotted, and her signal flags revealed “E.F.N.J.,” which was recognized as Eiskasoni’s private signal. The signal station issued the order to proceed to Limerick, but to everyone’s surprise, the ship ignored the command, hoisted “U.N.Z.,” meaning “Report me all well,” and changed course, sailing away. Despite anxiously waiting for the vessel’s arrival in Limerick, she never showed up, and growing concern led to speculations about her safety.

Exactly a month later, on March 10th, the ship was reportedly spoken at the Lizard, and the signalman there once again ordered her to Limerick. A reply was received, indicating that the signal was understood. However, the ship has since failed to reach its intended destination, and fears have arisen at Lloyd’s that she may have foundered. The Eiskasoni, a well-equipped vessel with a crew of nearly thirty, is considered to be in good condition, making it difficult to attribute her disappearance to adverse weather conditions off the coast. The mystery of the ship’s whereabouts deepens, and efforts to locate her continue as the maritime community anxiously awaits news of her fate.

Bingley Chronicle – Friday 24 March 1905