AN OLD-TIME WRECK

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21935, 19 October 1934, Page 16

AN OLD-TIME WRECK

LOSS OF THE TASMANIA MR. ROTHSCHILD'S JEWELLERY The wreck of the Huddart, Parker Company's steamer Tasmania on July 29, 1897, has been recalled by Mr. I. J. Rothschild, of Wellington. Mr. and Mrs. Rothschild celebrated their golden weding last Sunday. Born in Bristol, England, Mr. Rothschild says he clearly remembers the British troops leaving for the Crimea. He came to New Zealand first as a young man 6$ years ago, and took part in the gold rush to the West Returning to the Dominion again ,in 1878 he founded the business which he has conducted ever since. One of the most memorable experiences in his life, Mr. Rothschild stated, occurred in conne'efion with the wreck of the Tasmania when en route from Auckland to Wellington, via Gisborne. The steamer struck a rock near Table Cape, Mahia Peninsula, about 11.15 p.m.. and after the lapse of about an hour the passengers and crew were ordered into the ship's boats. Excellent order was kept. The vessel/ remained on an even keel until 1 a.m. As the Tasmania showed signs of sinking, the order was given to sheer off. After pulling away a short distance, they saw the ship sink stern foremost. Mr. Rothschild was in the boat which was ill the charge of the chief officer. The boat reached the shore after a long pull of about nine hours, three miles from Mr. Ormond's station, and they remained there for two days. They were coin-eyed by steamer to Napier, and thence proceeded to Wellington. Mr. Rothschild had a valuable stock of jewellery on the Tasmania, and as hiß baggage went down with the ship, he suffered a severe loss, amounting to many thousands of pounds. All attempts to recover the treasure failed. Facing the world without capital, but with undaunted courage, he won success again in his business.