Identification & Site Information

• Name: Amazon
• Former Names: None
• Official Number: None
• Date Built and Launched: 1837
• Builder: Z. Pangborn, Port Huron, Michigan (originally built as a Schooner)
• Vessel Type: Wooden Brig, 2-Masted (converted from Schooner in 1845)
• Hull Material: Wood
• Measurements:Length: 93 ft (28.3 m) Beam: 23 ft (7 m) Depth: 9 ft (2.7 m)
• Tonnage: 172 tons (old measurement)
• Date Lost: May 9, 1864
• Place of Loss: Near Point Edward, Ontario (at the entrance of the St. Clair River into Lake Huron)
• Lake: Lake Huron
• Type of Loss: Storm
• Loss of Life: None
• Cargo at Time of Loss: Coal

Vessel Type:

The Amazon was a wooden brig, a type of two-masted sailing vessel rigged square on both masts, offering greater cargo capacity and stability for long-distance trade. Originally constructed as a Schooner in 1837, the vessel was Rebuilt as a Brig in 1845 at Cleveland, Ohio, reflecting the shift in trade demands and the desire for more versatile cargo-carrying vessels.

Description

Built by Z. Pangborn in Port Huron, Michigan, the Amazon measured 93 feet in length with a beam of 23 feet and a depth of 9 feet, giving her a tonnage of 172. As a Brig, the vessel was well-suited for Great Lakes trade routes, capable of handling bulk cargoes over long distances while navigating the often-treacherous conditions of the lakes.

The vessel was owned by M.B. Scott of Cleveland, Ohio, at the time of her loss and was considered the oldest working Schooner (converted Brig) on the Great Lakes when she met her fate in 1864.

History

The Amazon had a long and active career spanning nearly three decades. Initially built as a Schooner in 1837, she was part of the early expansion of Great Lakes commerce, which saw rapid growth in the transportation of lumber, grain, coal, and iron ore between Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Ontario.

In 1845, recognizing the need for greater cargo capacity and sailing efficiency, the Amazon was Rebuilt as a Brig in Cleveland, Ohio. This Conversion allowed her to participate more effectively in the booming iron ore and coal trades that were critical to the region’s industrial development.

By the 1860s, the Amazon was primarily engaged in the transportation of coal from Cleveland to Lake Superior ports, with plans to return with iron ore—a common trade route that supported the growing steel industry.

Final Voyage and Loss

On May 9, 1864, while en route from Cleveland to Lake Superior with a cargo of coal, the Amazon encountered a severe storm shortly after exiting the St. Clair River into Lake Huron, near Point Edward, Ontario.

The storm intensified just as the vessel cleared the river’s mouth. Unable to maintain control in the high winds and rough waters, the Amazon was driven ashore on the Canadian side. Despite efforts to regain control, the vessel grounded and was quickly battered by waves. The force of the storm caused the Amazon to break apart, rendering her a Total Loss.

Fortunately, the entire crew survived the incident, though the vessel itself was irreparably damaged. The Amazon’s loss marked the end of what was believed to be the oldest working Schooner-turned-Brig on the Great Lakes at that time.

Final Disposition

The Amazon broke up after grounding near Point Edward, Ontario, and was declared a Total Loss. There are no records of salvage operations, and any remains would have likely been dispersed by the lake’s currents and weather conditions.

Located By & Date Found There is no confirmed modern discovery of the Amazon’s wreck. Lake Huron’s shoreline near Point Edward contains numerous wrecks, and the Amazon may be among unidentified remains in the area.

NOTMARs & Advisories

The entrance to the St. Clair River from Lake Huron is a known navigational challenge due to strong currents and variable weather conditions. Mariners are advised to exercise caution in this area.

Resources & Links:

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Great Lakes Vessels Database – BGSU
• Ontario Shipwrecks Database
• Edward J. Dowling Collection, University of Detroit – Mercy

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Conclusion

The Amazon‘s loss in 1864 near Point Edward marks the end of a remarkable career for one of the oldest vessels operating on the Great Lakes at that time. Originally built as a Schooner in 1837 and later converted to a Brig in 1845, the Amazon played a significant role in the coal and iron ore trades that fueled the region’s industrial expansion. Her demise in a sudden storm reflects the inherent dangers of Great Lakes navigation, particularly in the volatile waters of Lake Huron. Though her wreck remains undiscovered, the Amazon stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of early maritime commerce on the lakes.

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Keywords: Amazon, Lake Huron Shipwreck, Great Lakes Brig, St. Clair River, Coal Trade, Great Lakes Maritime History
Categories: Great Lakes Brigs, Lake Huron Shipwrecks, 19th Century Maritime Commerce
Glossary Terms: Brig, Rebuilt Schooner, Total Loss, Iron Ore Trade, Maritime Storm