IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Vessel Name: COLONEL BRACKETT

• Vessel Type: Schooner-Barge

• Year Built: 1869

• Builder: F.N. Jones, Tonawanda, NY

• Dimensions:

• Length: 115 feet (35 meters)

• Beam (Width): 25 feet (7.6 meters)

• Depth: 4 feet (1.2 meters)

• Tonnage:

• Gross: 187 tons

• Net: 177 tons

• Cargo: Lumber and ice

• Final Voyage: April 24, 1890

• Wreck Location: Harbor Beach, Michigan, Lake Huron

• Current Condition: Total Loss; vessel destroyed after grounding on the Breakwater

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The COLONEL BRACKETT was a Schooner-Barge, a type of vessel commonly used on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. These barges, often towed by steamers, were designed for transporting bulk cargoes like lumber, ice, and other commodities. Schooner-barges were an efficient way to increase cargo capacity without requiring separate propulsion systems.

HISTORY

Construction and Purpose

The COLONEL BRACKETT was constructed in 1869 in Tonawanda, New York, by F.N. Jones. Measuring 115 feet in length, the vessel was designed to transport goods such as lumber and ice, crucial for the growing industries in the Great Lakes region. With a Gross Tonnage of 187 tons, it served as a workhorse for trade along the lakes.

Operational Challenges

Throughout its operational life, the COLONEL BRACKETT faced a series of difficulties. On a previous occasion, it struck a pier at Sand Beach and sank. It was also Abandoned after running ashore near Port Hope. These incidents reflect the vessel’s vulnerability to both financial instability and the dangers of navigating the often unpredictable Great Lakes.

The COLONEL BRACKETT was frequently bought and sold at marshal’s sales, indicative of ongoing financial difficulties. In one such sale on November 23, 1889, the vessel was purchased for just $295, a fraction of its actual value. Despite its challenges, the vessel continued to operate, serving regional industries.

FINAL VOYAGE AND LOSS

On April 24, 1890, the COLONEL BRACKETT was being towed by the Steamer RHODA STEWART while bound for a brewery in Port Huron. Laden with lumber and ice, the vessel was caught in a fierce northeastern gale. During the storm, the COLONEL BRACKETT broke loose from its tow off Port Hope. Left to fend for itself, the crew attempted to navigate the vessel to safety at Harbor Beach.

Unfortunately, the Schooner-Barge ran aground on the Breakwater at Harbor Beach. The powerful storm continued to batter the vessel, leading to its complete destruction. Despite the severity of the incident, all crew members survived, a testament to their skill and determination in the face of danger.

The vessel and its cargo were valued at approximately $3,500 at the time, representing a significant financial loss.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The COLONEL BRACKETT was destroyed after running aground on the Breakwater at Harbor Beach during the storm. The wreck was deemed a Total Loss. The remains of the vessel were likely salvaged or scattered by the forces of the storm, and no significant wreckage is documented.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the COLONEL BRACKETT wreck site. Mariners in the Harbor Beach area should remain aware of the general presence of historical wrecks and potential submerged hazards.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database: Explore shipwreck records and historical accounts

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: A comprehensive archive of Great Lakes shipwrecks

• Great Lakes Shipwreck Research Database: Detailed information on vessels lost on the Great Lakes

CONCLUSION

The story of the Schooner-Barge COLONEL BRACKETT is one of resilience in the face of hardship and a sobering reminder of the perils of Great Lakes navigation. Despite its struggles with financial instability and multiple accidents, the vessel served the region’s industries until its untimely destruction in 1890. The COLONEL BRACKETT’s loss underscores the unpredictable and often unforgiving nature of the Great Lakes, where even experienced crews and sturdy vessels could succumb to the elements.

KEYWORDS

#ColonelBrackett #SchoonerBarge #GreatLakesShipwreck #LakeHuron #MaritimeHistory #LumberTransport #HarborBeachMichigan