The Newcastle registered barque, Diadem, was on a voyage from Shields to Montreal with a general cargo which included glass, chemicals and paint, when she got caught in the flood tide off Duncansby Head.  The wind was south-easterly, force 4 and the visibility fine, but she took a yaw, failed to answer her helm and ran ashore at the Ness of Duncansby.  The barque filled with sea-water within ten minutes, but the crew of thirteen including Captain George Key, all reached shore.

Her materials and stores were later saved, but of her cargo, £1400 was insured at Lloyds, but £1000 was not insured. The Diadem became a total wreck. 

The Diadem was built in 1839 and was 306 net registered tons. Her owners were David and Robert Cowan.