3-028-724 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Wreck of the Rapido, a Portuguese schooner, on Ramsgate Pier, 1870. 'The Portuguese schooner Rapido (in ballast), for Cardiff, for coals, whilst making the mouth of Ramsgate Harbour, on the morning of the 30th December, came in contact with the east pier-head, which completely turned her round into the bend of the pier, a very dangerous place, where many an unfortunate seaman has met his death. In less than twenty minutes after the vessel struck she had become a total wreck. The scene on the pier-head was one of intense excitement; for, as every sea washed the vessel from stem to stern, and as she bumped against the massive granite walls of the pier, it was momentarily feared that she would go to pieces, and every soul on board be lost. However, from the expeditious manner in which the harbour authorities managed the crane-baskets, the crew, consisting of eight men and a boy, were safely landed, amidst great cheering. They were taken to the Sailors' Home'. From "Illustrated London News", 1870.