L'HERMINIE
By Capt. Dan Berg

Photos:  L'Herminie courtesy Mike Davis collection. Teddy Tucker with projectiles by Dan Berg. Crossed Cannons by Alan Marquardt.

The 300 foot long, 60 gun French frigate, L'Herminie, was launched in 1824, and completed in 1828. She had been part of a Squadron in Mexican waters sent in order to enforce French claims against Mexico. The L'Herminie arrived in Havana on August 3, 1837. Within three months, 133 of her crew came down with yellow fever. Since the L'Herminie's crew would be useless in battle, it was decided to recall her to France.  On December 3, 1838, under the command of Commodore Bazoch, she was homeward bound from Havana to Brest, France. Due to rough weather Captain Bazoch headed for the shelter of Bermuda. By the time land was spotted, it was too late. The big ship was already inside Bermuda's reef structure and was doomed. Local boats came to her assistance and all 495 officers and crew were landed safely in Ely's Harbor.

Some of the L'Herminie's stores were salvaged the next day. The crew departed Bermuda at the end of the month aboard the vessels, Hercules, Jean and Osage.
 

Teddy Tucker recovered this bell from the L'Herminie. Photo courtesy Mike Davis collection.

Today, the wreck of the L'Herminie is resting four miles west of Ireland Island in 30 to 35 feet of water on a sand and coral bottom. According to Mike Burke, divers can count 40 of her cannons on the sea bed, and those with a sharp eye may even see cannon balls. The most famous spot on this wreck are her two crossed cannons, which have become a favorite for underwater photographers. Divers will also see a huge fluted anchor on the site.
 

The information listed above was taken with permission from the Book:
BERMUDA SHIPWRECKS,  ISBN # 0-9616167-4-1
A Vacationing Divers Guide to Bermudas Shipwrecks,
by Dan and Denise Berg, 6x9 softcover,73 pages.
Retail $14.95

 

Now also Available as an instant download printable PDF eBook

BERMUDA SHIPWRECKS ebook A Vacationing Divers Guide to Bermudas Shipwrecks Buy Now  only $9.95 4.5 MB instant download, printable  PDF file by Dan and Denise Berg, 6x9, 73 page downloadable ebook. From the first quarter of the 16th century, Bermuda became a landmark for Spanish ships sailing back to Spain from the New World. The desire to sight Bermuda to confirm their position often ended their voyage as they wrecked on Bermuda's outer reefs. To this day Bermuda's treacherous reefs have taken their toll on shipping. The reefs have claimed vessels ranging from ocean lines to small fishing boats. Bermuda Shipwrecks is the most comprehensive, accurate, illustrated collection of information, photographs, sketches and stories ever written about the legendary wrecks around Bermuda. Bermuda Shipwrecks includes over 100 illustrations comprised of 61 sensational color photos, 17 rare b&w historical images, 19 stamps, 4 sketches plus one map. Bermuda Shipwrecks contains a wealth of enlightening information that gives the readers a nostalgic glimpse into the history and present condition of over 55 of Bermuda's most popular Shipwrecks.  Check out Capt. Dan's other shipwreck and Diving eBooks