Limerick, Ireland – In a harrowing maritime ordeal, the large four-masted barque, Manx Anne of Glasgow, found itself in a dire situation after being unable to enter Limerick port amidst a raging storm. Laden with 4,000 tons of Australian wheat destined for a Limerick-based firm, the vessel was forced to seek refuge in Galway, ultimately stranding off Spiddal.

The distressing incident unfolded on Tuesday night when the powerful storm thwarted the Manx Anne’s attempts to dock at Limerick port. The vessel, battered and beleaguered, drifted towards Galway, where it now lies in a precarious state off Spiddal. The once-proud sails of the ship are now mere tatters, and a severe list to starboard is evident, a consequence of the shifting cargo within.

Awaiting salvation, the Manx Anne’s captain and crew endure a tense wait for a tug from Limerick. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the vessel’s compromised condition, making the need for a timely and effective rescue paramount.

Captain and crew recount a nightmarish experience as they battled the ferocity of the hurricane. To maintain control, it became imperative to lash the helmsman to his post, a testament to the extreme conditions faced by the crew. The captain, with three decades of seafaring under his belt, described the storm as the worst in his long and seasoned maritime career.

Further investigation reveals a surprising twist in the tale. The captain had recently disbanded a portion of his crew in Cork, just days before the ill-fated journey. The timing of this decision raises questions about the impact it may have had on the crew’s ability to navigate the treacherous waters’ en route to Limerick.

The Limerick-based firm eagerly awaits the safe arrival of the Australian wheat, now caught in the midst of this maritime ordeal. The delay, coupled with the potential damage to the cargo, adds economic strain to an already challenging situation.

Local authorities in Limerick are coordinating efforts to dispatch a tug promptly, recognizing the urgency of the situation. The ordeal of the Manx Anne highlights the unpredictable and perilous nature of maritime ventures, emphasizing the need for preparedness and resilience in the face of adverse weather conditions.

As the crew and vessel await assistance off the coast of Spiddal, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable challenges faced by those navigating the waters off the shores of Limerick.

Weekly Freeman’s Journal – Saturday 04 January 1913