Montauk Point, RI Steamer Ontario Fire, Apr 1912

PASSENGERS FACE DEATH WHEN STEAMER BURNS NEAR MONTAUK POINT

PASSENGERS ON THE “ONTARIO” HAVE VERY NARROW ESCAPE

“THANK GOD FOR THAT.” THE CAPTAIN CRIES.

MANY WOMEN AND CHILDREN ARE RESCUED AND BOAT BEACHED.

By United Press.

Newport, R. I., April 8. – At 8:25 A. M., the following wireless message was received here from Captain Bond from the steamer Ontario.

By United Press.
Montauk Point, R. I., April 8. – Twenty-nine women and children were taken from the burning steamer, Ontario, of the Merchants’ and Miners’ line of Montauk Point by the tug Tasco, from New London, Conn., today. The captain and crew decided to remain with the vessel, beached five miles from here and fight the flames which were raging in her hold.

The remainder of the passengers also elected to remain, although the tug is standing by, awaiting the moment when the passengers and crew still on board will be forced to leave the vessel.

“Thank God For That.”
Baltimore, April 8. – When J. C. Whitney, proprietor of the Merchants’ and Miners’ Transportation Co., was informed today that the passengers of the ill-fated Ontario had been saved he exclaimed: “Thank God for that.” The boat is a minor consideration compared with the safety of the passengers.”

Safely Ashore.
New London, April 8. – The tug Tasco of the Scott company, arrived here at 12:25 and landed 29 women and children passengers of the steamer Ontario of the Merchants’ and Miners’ line, which burned off Montauk Point, New York, early today. They were taken immediately to the train which was in waiting and sent on to Boston.

Lima News, Lima, OH 8 Apr 1912
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Transcribed by Jenni Lanham. Thank you, Jenni!