SS: Middelburg Traditional Geocache
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(small)
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A short stroll to this cache that forms part of the Shipwreck Series. For the series methodology and more info visit SS: Shipwreck Series via the related web page link.
In 1780 Britain declared war on the Netherlands, after the latter became involved in the American War of Independence by joining France and Spain in declaring war on England. This meant that all Dutch shipping was open to attack.
On the 4th July 1781, the English fleet under Commodore George Johnstone was on his way to Cape Town and decided to take his fleet into Saldahna Bay. At the time a small fleet of Dutch vessels was anchored in Hoedjies Bay in the lee of Marcus Island. The British had the element of surprise and quickly captured most of the Dutch fleet apart from the Middelburg.
On the Middelburg, the first mate, Abraham de Smidt, stayed behind after the rest of the crew abandoned ship and lit several fires deep in the belly of the ship. The vessel was soon ablaze and exploded once the fires reached the powder magazine. She then sank. The Middelburg was the only Dutch vessel not to fall into English hands that day. The loss of six Indiamen and their cargoes, and a number of other small vessels must have been a serious financial blow to the already struggling Dutch East India Company and may well have been one of the factors contributing to its eventual bankruptcy in 1796.
The breakwater has been built over the site of the wreck.
Best to do on a weekend when it is quieter and the harbour security are more amenable.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Oruvaq tenavgr ebpx