Shipwreck Report: Steamer CLARION

Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Name: CLARION

•Type: Wooden Freighter

•Year Built: Late 19th century (specific year undocumented)

•Length: Approximately 300 feet

•Construction: Wooden Hull

•Final Voyage Date: December 8, 1909

•Location of Loss: Lake Erie, near the South-East Shoals

•Cause of Loss: Fire and subsequent sinking during a severe storm

•Lives Lost: Multiple crew fatalities, with acts of heroism documented

Vessel Type Description

The CLARION was a large wooden freighter designed for carrying bulk cargo on the Great Lakes. Measuring approximately 300 feet in length, it was a significant vessel for its era, constructed to handle the demands of Great Lakes trade. However, its wooden construction made it more susceptible to fire and damage compared to later steel-hulled vessels.

History

The CLARION, under the command of Captain E. J. Bell, had a storied career navigating the unpredictable waters of the Great Lakes. On December 8, 1909, the vessel embarked on what would be its final voyage, departing the Detroit River and entering Lake Erie. Unbeknownst to the crew, the journey would coincide with one of the most severe midwinter storms in Great Lakes history.

The Final Voyage

•Weather Conditions:

The CLARION encountered towering waves, dense fog, freezing winds, and icy spray that turned the vessel into a frost-laden fortress. Visibility was almost nonexistent, making navigation perilous.

•Fire Onboard:

Amid the storm, a fire broke out in the hold, rapidly consuming the vessel. The flames spread uncontrollably, exacerbated by the storm’s ferocious winds.

•Distress Call:

The CLARION’s whistle sounded in desperation, yet initial cries for help went unanswered as one passing ship failed to render aid.

•Heroism Amid Chaos:

The crew’s efforts to fight the fire and secure lifeboats showcased remarkable bravery. Notably, crewman George McAuley sacrificed himself attempting to retrieve a lifeboat adrift in the icy waters.

•Rescue Effort:

The Steamer L. C. HANNA, commanded by Captain M. B. Anderson, navigated through the storm and came to the CLARION’s rescue. Captain Anderson’s daring allowed many crew members to leap from the burning vessel onto the HANNA.

Final Disposition

The CLARION ultimately succumbed to the flames and the relentless storm, sinking into the icy depths of Lake Erie. While the fire and weather caused severe damage, the courage of Captain Bell and his crew, coupled with the timely arrival of the L. C. HANNA, ensured that many lives were saved.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or navigational advisories currently linked to the wreck of the CLARION. Its exact resting place remains undetermined, though it is believed to be near the South-East Shoals.

Located By & Date

The wreck of the CLARION has not been formally discovered or surveyed. The harsh conditions of Lake Erie and the wooden construction of the vessel suggest significant degradation over time.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck’s location and condition remain unknown. Given the time elapsed and the wooden nature of the CLARION, the site may offer limited opportunities for recovery or exploration.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: A database of vessel records and storm accounts.

•NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory: Insights into storm patterns and maritime safety.

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Additional shipwreck documentation.

Conclusion

The loss of the CLARION highlights the perilous nature of Great Lakes navigation during the early 20th century, especially in the face of midwinter storms. The tragedy underscores the inherent risks of wooden freighters and the unpredictability of fire on such vessels. However, the bravery of the crew and the heroic actions of the L. C. HANNA’s captain and crew stand as enduring reminders of human resilience and courage in the face of disaster.

Keywords

#CLARION #GreatLakesShipwreck #LakeErieDisaster #MaritimeHistory #WoodenFreighters #1909Storm #GreatLakesStorms