[Pg 1]
THE TRAGEDY
of
MONOMOY BEACH
THE GRAVEYARD OF THE ATLANTIC
by
CLARKSON P. BEARSE, SR.
(Copyright 1943)
Designed, printed and published on Cape Cod by
THE GOSS PRINT
HARWICH, MASSACHUSETTS
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Introduction
This will introduce to our readers, theauthor, Clarkson P. Bearse, Sr. He is a nativeCape Codder and lives in a peaceful typicalCape Cod home in Harwich Port. In fact heis Postmaster of the Harwich Port Post office.He was a former member of the CoastGuard Station which figured in the Monomoydisaster. Due to an injury received in theline of duty he was unable to report for service,or otherwise he would have been another victimrather than the author of this thrilling storyof the sea.
For many years he retained the facts aboutthis world famous tragedy, second only inimportance to the Portland disaster. His modestycaused him to refrain from telling thestory until his friends finally prevailed uponhim to fill in at a Grange lecture hour onenight. Then Kiwanis listened to him and wasthrilled. Then other organizations sought histhrilling story. We know he will thrill you,too, as he paints his vivid word picture.
No living person can tell this story like[Pg 4]Mr. Bearse. This tragedy of the sea is onlyone of hundreds of ship wrecks which havemade these shoals known as “The Graveyardof the Atlantic” all over the world. We areproud to present this copyrighted edition foryour reading pleasure.
The Publishers.
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CLARKSON P. BEARSE, SR.
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An Appreciation
For the historical sketch which decorateseach page in this book we thank WendellRogers, the Chatham artist. His generouscontribution has added much to the historicas well as to the artistic value of the book.
For the accuracy of the Honor Roll ofthe Town of Chatham as of August 1, 1943we are indebted to Town Clerk Levi Denson.
The American Legion of Harwich, CloydePate, Commander, is also due official recognitionfor their sponsorship of the HarwichHonor Roll.
The Publishers.
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THE TRAGEDY of MONOMOY BEACH
or
THE GRAVEYARD of THE ATLANTIC
CHAPTER I
I was born and brought up on Cape Cod.To me it is the only place on earth. Inolden times, in times gone by, peopleaway from here had the idea that Cape Codwas a narrow strip of land extending off intothe ocean, consisting of sand dunes and fi