The Palatine Light
A spectral ship seen burning off the coast of Block Island.
- Region
- Rhode Island
- Country
- USA
- Category
- Ghost Ship
- Date
- December 1738
- Continent
- North America
The report
The Palatine Light is a ghostly apparition of a burning ship reported off Block Island. The legend originates from the wreck of the Princess Augusta in 1738, a ship transporting Palatine German immigrants. Survivors claimed the ship was deliberately grounded and looted by islanders. Witnesses have reported sightings of a flaming ship reappearing on the anniversary of the wreck. The story inspired poems and debates over its historical accuracy.
Sources and further reading
Location
41.047, -71.922
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