Definition The Church Rocks Wreck refers to the remains of the British steamship SS Harlaw (sometimes incorrectly spelled Harrow), which ran aground and was lost on Church Rocks near St David's Head, Pembrokeshire, Wales, on November 27, 1916.
Overview The SS Harlaw, a steel-built cargo vessel of 1,061 gross registered tons, was en route from Glasgow to Plymouth when it encountered severe weather conditions during World War I. Amidst a strong gale and heavy seas, the ship struck the treacherous Church Rocks, located off the Pembrokeshire coast. Despite the vessel being completely lost, all crew members were successfully rescued. Today, the wreck is submerged and serves as a notable site for recreational divers, offering an accessible depth and visible remnants of the ship's structure, which has become home to marine life.
Etymology/Origin The term "Church Rocks" designates a specific group of rocky islets situated approximately one mile north-west of St David's Head, in the county of Pembrokeshire, Wales. The origin of the name "Church Rocks" likely derives from their proximity to the historic St David's Cathedral or potentially their shape. The addition of "Wreck" specifically identifies the maritime casualty that occurred at this geographical feature, distinguishing it from the rocks themselves. The SS Harlaw was built in 1902 by the Grangemouth Dockyard Company in Scotland.
Characteristics
- Vessel: SS Harlaw, a steel-built steam cargo ship.
- Dimensions: Approximately 70.1 meters (230 feet) in length.
- Date of Loss: November 27, 1916.
- Location: Church Rocks, near St David's Head, Pembrokeshire, Wales (approximate coordinates: 51°53′30″N 5°18′00″W).
- Cause of Loss: Ran aground due to navigational challenges amidst a severe gale and heavy seas.
- Human Cost: All crew members were safely rescued; there were no fatalities.
- Current State: The remains of the SS Harlaw are scattered across the seabed in depths ranging from approximately 10 to 20 meters (33 to 66 feet). Visible components include sections of the hull, machinery, and various artefacts, providing a habitat for diverse marine life. It is considered an accessible and interesting dive site.
- Historical Context: The incident occurred during World War I, although the loss was attributed to severe weather and navigational error rather than enemy action.
Related Topics
- Maritime archaeology
- Shipwrecks of Wales
- Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
- St David's Head
- Recreational diving in the UK
- SS Harlaw