On March 31, 1865, the vessel encountered rough water off Cape Hatteras, N.C. and a fire broke out in the engine room and quickly spread throughout the ship. Approximately 500 passengers lost their lives, including all but five of the 205-man contingent from the 56th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment.
There were just 29 survivors with 28 being listed in the New York Times. Isaac White of the 56th Illinois also survived.
This was a huge disaster, but it was completely overshadowed with the news of Lee's surrender nine days later and, of course, Lincoln's assassination.
--Old Secesh
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