TRACY or TRACEY

Identification & Site Information

• Other Names: Also seen as GEN. TRACY
• Official No.: None
• Type at Loss: Armed snow, wood
• Build Info: 1802, River Rouge (Detroit, MI)
• Specs: 53 tons
• Date of Loss: 1809 (some records say after 1812)
• Place of Loss: Off Fort Erie, Lake Erie
• Lake: Erie
• Type of Loss: Likely storm
• Loss of Life: Unknown
• Carrying: None

History and Description

The TRACY (sometimes listed as GEN. TRACY) was an armed snow (a type of small, square-rigged ship) constructed in 1802 at River Rouge, near Detroit, Michigan. Weighing approximately 53 tons, this vessel was originally part of the U.S. Navy, likely serving during the early years of the War of 1812.

In its earlier years, the TRACY was involved in notable military history. She played a role in establishing the garrison at Fort Dearborn (what is now Chicago) in 1803, alongside other vessels that contributed to the formation of the early American presence on the Great Lakes. After its service with the military, the TRACY transitioned into civilian use as a private vessel.

Final Disposition

By 1809 (or possibly later, as some sources state “after 1812”), the TRACY was wrecked off Fort Erie in Lake Erie, likely due to a storm. At the time of its loss, it was on its third trip as a private vessel, having been sold to Porter, Barton & Co of Black Rock, New York (modern-day Buffalo, NY). The wrecking occurred during a storm, though no further details of the incident, such as the exact circumstances or loss of life, are readily available.

Given the vessel’s earlier history and importance in military operations, the TRACY is considered a significant early U.S. Navy vessel in the Great Lakes region.

Sources & References

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Provides historical context regarding the ship’s military involvement.
• Great Lakes Historical Society: Offers detailed records of early American ships like the TRACY.
• Shipwreck Data: Includes information about early Great Lakes vessels and their fates.

Conclusion

The TRACY, a vessel originally serving the U.S. Navy, had a notable role in the early military presence on the Great Lakes. Her loss off Fort Erie marks an end to one of the early armed vessels used in establishing American settlements and fortifications in the region. Although the details of her wreck are sparse, she remains part of the rich history of Lake Erie and the early 19th-century maritime scene.