Diver discovers 129-year-old shipwreck off Cornwall coast

In August 2024, Rachael Edmans, a 36-year-old mother from Tolvaddon, Camborne, discovered a shipwreck off the coast of Cornwall, England, while diving alone. The wreck had been submerged for 129 years, and Edmans initially struggled to find information about the vessel, which was believed to have sunk due to an engine room leak while en route from Cardiff. The weather had turned severe, leading to a rescue mission by the Hayle lifeboat, which managed to save only nine of the twenty crew members on board. The shipwreck remained largely undocumented until Edmans' discovery, which she described as a mix of excitement and sobering reflection on the lives lost. She expressed a deep connection to the site, noting the presence of marine life, including wrasse and coral, which she poetically associated with the spirits of the lost crew. Since her initial find, Edmans has returned to the wreck multiple times, aiming to map it out and document its history. She described the dive as challenging due to strong currents and low visibility but emphasized the beauty of the dive site, Portreath, which she considers a hidden gem full of life. Her efforts highlight the importance of underwater exploration and the potential for uncovering forgotten maritime histories, as well as the emotional impact such discoveries can have on individuals who connect with the past through their explorations.