S-21

S-21 with civilians on board. Location is unknown and the date is likely the mid to late 1920's. This could be a dependent's or dignitary's cruise. The woman standing next to deck gun has high heels on, usually not advisable on a submarine.

Photo in the private collection of Ric Hedman

A close up of the photo above, showing details of the gun and some of the S-21's guests.

Photo in the private collection of Ric Hedman

The scene shown here takes place at the Washington Navy Yard in early October 1928. Secretary of the Navy Curtis Wilbur descends the forward hatch into the torpedo room of the S-21 to inspect the instruments installed by the Dutch inventor Dr. F. A. Vining Meinesz. The U.S. Navy and government was cooperating with Dr. Mainesz in the detection and mapping of the Earth's magnetic fields, a project on which he had already sailed on two Dutch submarines. A thorough knowledge of the magnetic fields was necessary in order to understand and compensate for variance, the difference between magnetic north and true north.

The Buffalo Evening News for Tuesday, October 2, 1928 relates; "The itinerary of the S-21 contemplates an investigation of the Atlantic continental shelf, the Narres deep to the northward of Puerto Rico, the Bartlett deep to the southward of Cuba and the Sigbee deep In the Gulf of Mexico and the intervening waters traversed in reaching these special spots of interest. As tenders for the expedition, the Navy has detailed the Eagle boats 15 and 58, commanded respectively by Lieut. Commander T. L. Nash and Lieut. Commander L. R. Moore, U. S. N."

"Not in many years has the Navy been enabled to father a scientific expedition of such potential interest to astronomers and geodesics as well is the public in general," Secretary Wilbur said. "The considerable contribution of Dr. Meinesz of his knowledge, time and apparatus is appreciated greatly. In addition to being a highly skilled observer. Dr Meinesz is a seasoned voyager, having cruised frequently in Dutch submarines."

"The present expedition will occupy about two months", the paper said. The expedition began on October 9, 1928.

The crew is standing at attention on deck, probably as part of a welcoming ceremony to Secretary Wilbur's arrival. One man is looking right at the camera. He is a Commissary Steward 2nd Class (Ships Cook) with two hash marks meaning he has over eight years in the Navy but not more than 12. Four Chiefs are seen at the far end of the formation. Seen in the background is the presidential yacht Mayflower.

Photo in the private collection of Ric Hedman

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