The SS Morro Castle disaster of 1934 claimed the lives of 128 people, leaving a lasting impact on maritime safety and the local community. Among those lost were several unidentified victims, who now rest in Mt. Prospect Cemetery in Neptune, NJ. Sadly, their graves are marked only by temporary, inadequate markers—one of which has been vandalized—failing to properly honor their memory or the significance of the tragedy.
After retiring to Neptune, NJ, with my wife, I became aware of the Morro Castle tragedy and its connection to our community. As someone with a degree in Marine Sciences, a career as an oceanographer for NOAA, and years as a science advisor to the US Coast Guard, maritime events have always fascinated me. When I visited the cemetery and saw the condition of the grave sites, I was moved to take action. The events of September 8, 1934, were a major maritime disaster, with implications for shipbuilding and safety that still resonate today. The loss of life, the heroism and tragedy, and the ship’s grounding just off Asbury Park make this a story that deserves to be remembered.
This fundraiser seeks to replace the temporary grave markers with a permanent headstone that will honor the unidentified victims and highlight the historical importance of the SS Morro Castle disaster. By supporting this effort, you are helping to preserve local history, commemorate those who perished, and ensure that their memory endures for generations to come. Please join me in giving these individuals the dignity and recognition they deserve.
After retiring to Neptune, NJ, with my wife, I became aware of the Morro Castle tragedy and its connection to our community. As someone with a degree in Marine Sciences, a career as an oceanographer for NOAA, and years as a science advisor to the US Coast Guard, maritime events have always fascinated me. When I visited the cemetery and saw the condition of the grave sites, I was moved to take action. The events of September 8, 1934, were a major maritime disaster, with implications for shipbuilding and safety that still resonate today. The loss of life, the heroism and tragedy, and the ship’s grounding just off Asbury Park make this a story that deserves to be remembered.
This fundraiser seeks to replace the temporary grave markers with a permanent headstone that will honor the unidentified victims and highlight the historical importance of the SS Morro Castle disaster. By supporting this effort, you are helping to preserve local history, commemorate those who perished, and ensure that their memory endures for generations to come. Please join me in giving these individuals the dignity and recognition they deserve.
Organizer
