The USS Cyclops: America's Greatest Naval Mystery

Norfolk, Virginia. Weather fair, all well. This was the last message ever received from the largest vessel of the U.S. Navy at the time. And then, with all her crew and cargo, it disappeared without sending a single distress signal. This is the story of the USS Cyclops. A mystery that has puzzled sailors, historians, and explorers for a century now. Let's see if we can figure it out. The USS Cyclops had an elaborate career. With all the missions she participated in. TIMELINE 1910: By William Cramp and Sons in Philadelphia. 1911: To supply ships of the 2nd Division. 1917: To participate in a convoy to Saint-Nazaire, France. 1918: When she was transferred to the Naval Overseas Transportation Service. WHY THIS MATTERS The story of Norfolk is a reminder that the events that shaped America didn't always happen in the biggest cities. What unfolded here left marks on the community that are still visible today. The full story is more complicated, and more human, than the version most people know. Episode 147 | Hometown History | Hosted by Shane Waters Hometown History explores forgotten stories from small-town America. The overlooked events, hidden triumphs, and buried tragedies that shaped the country we live in. New episodes every Tuesday. Find every episode at mythsandmalice.com/hometown-historyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy