Treasure Hunters Get Court Nod To Recover Gold From SS Pacific Ship That Sank 150 Years Ago

The oceans hold numerous mysteries, and tales of sunken ships carrying valuable treasures have captivated imaginations for centuries. One such vessel, the SS Pacific, sank approximately 150 years ago, carrying a significant quantity of gold. Recent reports indicate that efforts are underway to locate the wreckage and recover the long-lost treasure, with authorities having obtained court permission to proceed with the operation.

The SS Pacific, a wooden sidewheel steamer constructed in 1850 during the California Gold Rush, met its tragic fate in 1875. After years of exploration of the ocean floor, treasure hunters, driven by the allure of an estimated $8 million (almost Rs 66 crore) worth of gold and goods aboard the ship, have set their sights on claiming its cargo. In 2022, Jeff Hummel, an expert in the field, successfully located the remains of the SS Pacific. Subsequently, his company has secured official permission from a Seattle court to salvage the treasure.

The court ruling not only grants the right to claim the wrecked ship but also allows individuals with valid familial connections to the original owners of the gold to stake their claims on the recovered treasure. If successful, this endeavour would mark the first time in 150 years that the sunken gold would be brought to the surface.

However, the quest for the SS Pacific’s treasure has encountered a hurdle. The current owner of the cargo has disclosed an ongoing dispute, as numerous claimants have emerged, each vying for a share of the historic treasure. This legal tussle adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, highlighting the complexities surrounding the recovery of sunken treasures.

The SS Pacific met its demise in 1875 when it collided with the clipper SV Orpheus southwest of Cape Flattery, near Washington, USA. The ship, commanded by Captain Jefferson Davis, carried over 300 individuals at the time of its sinking, making it one of the deadliest maritime disasters in Western American history.

As the legal battles unfold and treasure hunters prepare to unearth the riches from the depths, the story of the SS Pacific continues to weave a fascinating tale of history, maritime tragedy, and the enduring allure of sunken treasures.