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Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Monday 07 June 1920
BIRKENHEAD DOCK DISASTER.
MANY CRAFT SUNK THROUGH BURSTING OF DOCK GATES.
An extraordinary disaster occurred in Alfred Dock, Birkenhead, on Saturday at the time of mid-day tide. The steamer Countess, outward, light, entering the thirty feet lock, struck the gates, causing them to burst open. The water in the dock being fifteen feet above that of the river caused a huge outrush of water, which carried the Countess and several barges out into the river. The number of barges involved is believed to be sixteen, fifteen of which have been identified, four of them in pieces.
The steamer, which was holed, was taken in tow and placed on Tranmere Beach, as also were the flats Obadiah, Ida, Edward Wheatley, James Wilson and Pirate. The following are amongst those sunk - Sunshine, Rufford, W. S. Patterson (loaded wheat], America, Francis, Annie, Cedron and Vernon[sic]. With regard to the steamers in dock, it is reported all kept afloat, and no damage is anticipated in this respect. Although it is believed there is no loss of life, the authorities are assaying to trace the identity of occupants of the many craft capsized by the tremendous avalanche of water.
An eye-witness described the rush of water into the river, following the bursting of the lock-gate, as a 20 feet high avalanche, which I carried everything before it. A survivor stated that the first moments of the disaster were agonising. Tiny boats and dozens of men were tossing on the crest of the Niagara, and plunged into a regular whirlpool beneath. The crews of the boats were powerless to move, and hung on to the sides of their craft while being swept along at a terrific rate by the force of the onrushing water.