SS Tarpon (shipwreck) facts for kids
The SS Tarpon', originally named Naugatuck, was a ship that sank in 1937. Its shipwreck lies about 7.8 nautical miles (14.4 km) off the coast of Panama City, Florida, United States. This underwater site is special! In 1997, it became the sixth Florida Underwater Archaeological Preserve, which means it's protected because of its historical importance. Later, in May 2001, the Tarpon shipwreck was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, recognizing it as a significant historical site.
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SS Tarpon
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Tarpon underway
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 Location in Florida
Location in the United States
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| Location | Bay County, Florida, United States |
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| Nearest city | Panama City |
| Built | 1887 |
| NRHP reference No. | 01000527 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | May 31, 2001 |
History of the SS Tarpon
The SS Tarpon was a steamship built in 1887 by a company called Pusey and Jones in Wilmington, Delaware. When it was first built, it had two propellers and was named Naugatuck. The ship was about 130 feet (40 meters) long and 26 feet (7.9 meters) wide. Its main body, called the hull, was made of strong iron. The upper parts of the ship, including where passengers stayed, were made of wood. Two steam engines powered the ship, turning its iron propellers to move it through the water.
Changes and New Name
In 1891, the ship was sold by its first owner and sent back to the builders. They made the ship longer, adding about 30 feet (9.1 meters) to its length. After this change, it was given a new name: Tarpon.
A Long Career at Sea
In 1902, the Tarpon was sold again, this time to The Pensacola, St Andrews, and Gulf Steamship Company. Captain Willis Green Barrow took command of the ship and was its captain for an amazing 30 years!
The Tarpon sailed weekly routes, connecting several cities along the coast. It traveled between Mobile, Pensacola, St. Andrews Bay, Apalachacola, and Carrabelle. Over its long career, the ship completed these trips an incredible 1,735 times!
The Final Voyage
On August 30, 1937, the Tarpon was loaded with 200 tons of cargo and 31 people, including the crew, in Mobile. Even though the weather forecast predicted calm seas, the wind started to get stronger. The ship was carrying a lot of weight, and as the waves grew, water began to come onto the ship. The crew tried to save the ship by throwing some of the cargo overboard, but it wasn't enough. The ship sank, and many lives were lost.
