Shipwreck Report: Schooner-Barge COLONEL BRACKETT

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Vessel Name: COLONEL BRACKETT

• Other Names: None

• 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

• Depth: Shallow waters near Breakwater

• Current Condition: Total Loss; vessel destroyed after grounding and scattered debris likely salvaged or dispersed.

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The COLONEL BRACKETT was a Schooner-Barge, a hybrid vessel designed to increase cargo capacity while being towed by a Steamer. These vessels were integral to the transport of bulk materials such as lumber and ice on the Great Lakes in the 19th century. Despite their robust construction, Schooner-barges were vulnerable to storms due to their limited maneuverability.

HISTORY

Construction and Service

• Built in 1869, the COLONEL BRACKETT was crafted for use in the booming lumber and ice trades along the Great Lakes.

• The vessel faced several challenges, including financial instability and operational mishaps. It frequently changed hands through marshal’s sales due to low profitability.

• Purchased in 1889 for just $295, the Barge continued service with a reduced operational value but remained a critical transport asset.

Incident History

• In earlier years, the COLONEL BRACKETT experienced notable incidents:

• Struck a pier at Sand Beach and sank (date unknown).

• Abandoned after running ashore near Port Hope, requiring recovery and repairs.

FINAL VOYAGE & LOSS

On April 24, 1890, the COLONEL BRACKETT was towed by the Steamer RHODA STEWART en route to a brewery in Port Huron with a load of lumber and ice. The vessel encountered a severe northeastern gale near Port Hope, breaking loose from its Towline.

• Refuge Attempt: The crew attempted to navigate to Harbor Beach for safety but grounded on the Breakwater upon arrival.

• Destruction: The storm battered the vessel relentlessly, causing it to break apart and sink.

• Casualties: None—crew survived the ordeal despite the vessel’s destruction.

• Financial Loss: Vessel and cargo valued at $3,500.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The wreckage was declared a Total Loss after the storm. The vessel’s remains were likely salvaged or scattered by subsequent weather conditions. No significant wreckage is documented in modern times.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

• Current Status: No active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with the COLONEL BRACKETT wreck site.

• Advisories: Mariners in the Harbor Beach area should exercise caution due to the presence of submerged hazards from historical wrecks.

RESOURCES & LINKS

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

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Comprehensive archive of Great Lakes shipwrecks.

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

CONCLUSION

The Schooner-Barge COLONEL BRACKETT serves as a poignant example of the challenges faced by vessels on the Great Lakes. Despite its resilience in the face of repeated financial and operational difficulties, the vessel ultimately succumbed to the unforgiving elements during its final voyage. Its story is a lasting reminder of the perils of Great Lakes navigation and the critical role these vessels played in the region’s economic development.

KEYWORDS

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

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