It was well-equipped as one of the most modern ships to serve in the conflict. At over 887 feet long and 108 feet wide, it was enormous, yet it could reach a top speed of 33 knots.

The ship began its fateful voyage on November 7, 1872, sailing with seven crewmen and Capt. Benjamin Spooner Briggs, his wife, Sarah, and the couple's 2-year-old daughter, Sophia.

The cruise ship that was supposed to be indestructible, but a combination of unfortunate circumstances and human hubris resulted in the loss of over 1,500 lives out of over 2,200 passengers and ...