The Case:
When the SS Sultana exploded on April 27, 1865, more than 1,800 died —outnumbering the death toll from the Titanic disaster. Why, then, do so few people know about one of the worst maritime disasters in U.S. history? And what caused the explosion that took so many lives?
The Civil War was finally over, and most of the passengers aboard that night were Union soldiers returning to their families from Confederate prison camps. But the number of people on board far exceeded the ship’s capacity—they barely had room to stand.
At 2:00 a.m. a mysterious explosion below deck set the Sultana ablaze and catapulted passengers into the frigid Mississippi.
Can the History Detectives solve the mysterious explosion of the SS Sultana? Was it an act of Confederate sabotage? Faulty machinery? Dangerous conditions?
Meeting with descendants of rebel boat burners and Sultana survivors, uncovering government records, and hunting for the wreck site, the team reveals a tale of incompetence, bribery, politics and nepotism that leads all the way to President Lincoln and the White House.
Season 11, Episode 1
Detective:
Tukufu Zuberi
Detective:
Wes Cowan
Detective:
Kaiama Glover
Location:Near Memphis, TN
Related Content
Feature:
Explore
-
Related Investigation
General Lee's Farewell Address
Could this be a signed copy of one of the most famous documents in the history of the Civil War?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Car Tape Deck
Is this an example of the first ever commercially produced car tape player?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Woolworth Sign
Were these signs part of the scene in an early victory for Civil Rights?
-
Related Investigation
Rogue Book
Who did this book of rogue characters belong to?
-
Also in Civil War: 1850-1877
Civil War Submarine
Is this submarine an example of new technology developed by the Confederates during the Civil War?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Florida Map
How did this faded map help unlock the riches of the New World?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.