The loss of the Ocean Monarch - the Aftermath

From 'The Illustrated London News'

AFTERMATH

The Ocean Monarch went down at her anchors at half-past one o' clock on Friday morning. The weather was fine and calm. With the exception of the solid timbers about the stem, on which was the figure-head in an almost-perfect state, the fire had consumed the whole of her upper works to within a few inches of the water's edge. Indeed, so even was the work of destruction round the sides of the ship, that it appeared to have been the work of carpenters.  The water first made its way into the after-part of the ship. As she gradually settled herself into the bosom of the sea, large volumes of flames rushed forward with a hissing and crackling sound, till at length the water completely buried her, and the remains of this once-noble vessel disappeared in about 14 fathoms, causing a heavy swell for a moment.

There is considerable discrepancy in the statements which have been published as to the number of persons on board the Ocean Monarch at the time she left the Mersey.  The following is from authentic sources:- Steerage passengers: 322, First and Second Cabin: 32, Captain and crew: 42, Total: 396.
 

With a view to obtaining a complete muster of survivors, so that their names, for the satisfaction of their relatives and friends might be recorded, and that the plans for relief which public generosity is so freely contributing might be duly administered to them, the Messrs. Harnden called a meeting on Monday of the whole of the passengers that could be found, at their offices, in Waterloo Road.  Nearly 150 drew up. Although private charity had, in the meantime, provided clothing for many, and had otherwise done much, a majority of the poor creatures were in the most wretched and destitute condition. One poor woman who was present had lost not less than five of her children; and it was pitiable to hear the recital of personal loss and peril which each poor sufferer had to tell. The poor creatures who assembled were taken under the charge of two of Messrs. Harnden’s clerks to the central police-office in High Street, where clothing of the most miscellaneous kind - contributions of which had been poured in with a liberal hand - was distributed by Mr. Superintendent Clough.  On Monday an inquest on five of the bodies of the unfortunate sufferers was entered upon by Mr. Curry, the coroner. The witnesses examined unanimously concurred in exculpating the Captain from blame. In other respects their evidence did not supply any material facts to the ample information already given.  The subscription in aid of the survivors on Tuesday amounted to £1,750.