The Mary Celeste, a 103 foot brigantine, set sail from New York for Genoa on November 7, 1872. The Mary Celeste had carried Captain Briggs, his wife and daughter, and a crew of 8. The only lifeboat was missing, and appeared to have been launched rather then torn away. Descriptions vary, but everything was apparently in good order although some versions have the sails torn slightly.
Some versions say a meal was about to be served.
Some have it still cooking on the stove. Others say that still warm meals were sitting on the tables. The captain's personal effects were on board, and toys were found on his bed. The ships papers, except for the captain's log, and the navigation instruments were missing. There was 6 months worth of food and water on board.