SS Warrimoo, the Ship That Existed in Two Centuries at Once
On December 30, 1899, the SS Warrimoo was positioned at the equator and international date line, simultaneously in two hemispheres and centuries, though the event's authenticity is debated.
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On December 30, 1899, the SS Warrimoo, a trans-Pacific liner, became part of a remarkable story when it was navigated to the intersection of the equator and the international date line. Captain John Duthie Sydney Phillips aimed to create a unique historical moment, and at midnight, the ship's bow was in the Southern Hemisphere, already in January 1900, while the stern remained in the Northern Hemisphere, still in December 1899. This positioning meant that the ship was simultaneously in two different days, months, seasons, years, and even centuries. Although the captain's log from 1942 confirmed this event, the accuracy of the navigation methods of the time raises doubts about the feasibility of maintaining such a precise position. Additionally, the notion that the 20th century began in 1900 is a common misconception; it actually started in 1901. Despite the intriguing nature of the tale, there is no substantial evidence beyond the captain's account to verify the event's authenticity. The story captures the imagination, blending maritime lore with the complexities of timekeeping and navigation.
- The SS Warrimoo was involved in a unique navigational event on December 30, 1899.
- The ship was simultaneously in two different hemispheres, seasons, and centuries.
- Captain Phillips aimed to create a historical moment by positioning the ship at a specific intersection.
- The accuracy of the navigation methods used at the time is questionable.
- The 20th century officially began in 1901, not 1900, despite popular belief.
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7 commentsBoth of these dates are still in the 19th century, however, so "two centuries at once" is wrong. The 20th century did not begin until Jan 1, 1901.
Fortunately we haven't yet reached situations where that would actually matter, and, with some luck, never will.
A difference of 2 days? How does that work? I thought it would just be a difference of 1 day.
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