A little history about the Grecian Cup

For those members who have wondered why we have a Grecian Cup or where the name came from, here is a little history lesson.

The Grecian shipwreck lies about 30 mts south of the southern outer harbour break water and about 100 mts towards the beach, from the end of the southern breakwater revetment wall.

On Oct. 12th, 1850 the barque Grecian (580tons) and captained by George Hyde completed a successful voyage that had begun when she left the downs on June 15th 1850. The ship then anchored off the entrance of the Port Creek, near the lighthouse. With 2 heavy anchors the captain believed his ship was safe, even though there was a strong breeze blowing from the south-west. Unfortunately the breeze turned into a gale and the ship began to drag her anchors, and finally grounded, broad side on, near the outer bar. Gradually she healed over and in the early hours of the next morning, after the rudder, stern post and part of the poop and after cabin had been carried away, the captain decided to abandon ship. In heavy seas and with considerable difficulty almost every body on board got into the boats and made for the shore. There was only one casualty. The captain and some of the ladies and other passengers, reached Torrens Island while another party landed at Port Gawler. A tug later took those from Torrens Island to the port while those from Port Gawler slowly found their way to Adelaide. Three days later an effort was made to locate the mail and two pets of the captain (A small dog and cat) were found alive. In due course the wreck was abandoned and almost forgotten. In 1872 the remains of the Grecian started drifting into the fairway and it was suggested by the harbour master that it be removed. A South Australian salvage company was formed and a deep-sea diver named Putwain was employed to remove the wreck. Cables were laid under the hull and lashed to a barge and some of the remains were put ashore near Levi-s wharf, Port Adelaide (Somewhere near number one dock) Two cannons were reported found approx. 1916 at the outer bar of the entrance of the Port river and are believed to have been from the Grecian. Other remains may still be seen on a clear day in approx. 25 feet of water. The keel pin mounted on the Grecian Trophy was salvaged a number of years ago by myself.

Submitted by:
Glyn Mate