The loss of the SS Guernsey on Apr. 8, 1915 was not caused by direct enemy action, but rather the threat of
such action. Because of the war the light at Cap de la Hague, France was turned out, this light is on the
northwest corner of the Cherbourg Peninsula marked a key navigation point, especially for the little coaster
Guernsey. She was owned by the London & South Western Railway Company and provided regular service
between Southampton and Guernsey Island in the English Channel.

Her master, Capt. Barrow, must have made the voyage many times and knew the route well, however that night,
with no light to navigate by and a strong northwest wind blowing the ship off course, she hit the rocks 2 miles
south of Auderville, France. They hit with so much force captain Barrow was thrown from the bridge into the
sea and he was never seen again.

The sea was so rough only one lifeboat could be launched and it contained only twelve of the remaining eighteen
people on board. The six left behind never reached shore and perished, the twelve who made it into the boat
were picked up by the SS Cherbourg and landed at Southampton.