On 10th November 1847 the passenger ship Stephen Whitney was wrecked in thick fog off the southern coast of Ireland, killing 92 of the 110 on board. The disaster results in the construction the Fastnet Rock lighthouse.

The Stephen Whitney had left New York for Liverpool, England, on Monday, October 18, 1847, with a call scheduled into Cork Harbour., Ireland.

The 1,034-ton ship had 76 passengers on board and a crew of 34. Cargo included 1,000 bales of cotton; 10,000 bushels of corn; 600 boxes of cheese; 1,000 barrels of flour and twenty boxes of clocks.

On Wednesday, November 10, she was nearing Mizen Head after an uneventful voyage. Weather was “hazy,” making visibility difficult. The haze turned into thick fog, never welcome at sea. The ship stopped, to ascertain depth soundings and sail was reduced, with wind strengthening. 

The main light then for ships to identify in that area when approaching the Irish coastline was on Cape Clear, Maritime Cork

The light was often difficult to see as it was regularly obscured by fog. The ship, under the command of Captain Charles W. Popham, could not see the light clearly and became confused about their position.

Many of those killed were dashed against the rocks, including Captain Popham in his attempt to swim to safety. Many of those killed remained unknown as only those passengers who had cabins were registered.

The tragedy led to a review of navigation warning lights along the Cork Coast and the replacement of Cape Clear light by the Fastnet.