Steamer CLARION

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

•Wreck Name: Steamer CLARION

•Coordinates: 41° 57.26’ N, 82° 16.30’ W

•Location: Off Southeast Shoal, Lake Erie

•Depth: Presumed shallow due to proximity to shoals

•Wreck Type: Steel freighter

•Tonnage: 1,700 tons

•Built: 1881

•Final Voyage: December 8, 1909

•Condition: Burned to the waterline and sank

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The CLARION was a steel freighter, a vessel type integral to the booming industrial era on the Great Lakes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With its 1,700-ton capacity, the freighter would have been heavily employed in transporting coal, iron ore, and grain—the lifeblood of industrial and agricultural economies in the region. Steel construction provided strength and durability, making the CLARION suitable for navigating the harsh conditions frequently encountered on the Great Lakes.

HISTORY

The CLARION, launched in 1881, served nearly 30 years as a steadfast freighter, ferrying cargo across the Great Lakes. By December 1909, it was en route from Detroit, Michigan, to Erie, Pennsylvania, likely for off-season layup or maintenance. Its history represents the peak era of steam-powered lake freighters, which played a vital role in Great Lakes commerce.

FINAL DISPOSITION

On December 8, 1909, the CLARION encountered one of the Great Lakes’ most severe midwinter storms. With Captain E. J. Bell commanding, the vessel faced overwhelming conditions, including towering waves and freezing fog. Amid the chaos, a catastrophic fire erupted on board, spreading rapidly and engulfing the ship. Despite heroic efforts by the crew, the fire rendered the vessel uncontrollable.

The Steamer burned to the waterline and sank near the Southeast Shoal, a hazardous area notorious for wrecks. Though no detailed casualty records are available, reports suggest that no lives were lost, as nearby vessels likely assisted in rescue efforts.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically associated with the CLARION wreck site.

LOCATED BY & DATE

There is no definitive record of the wreck’s discovery, though the location near Southeast Shoal has been documented in historical records.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

The wreck of the CLARION is likely scattered and heavily deteriorated, lying in the shallow waters near the shoals. Given its age and the destructive fire that preceded its sinking, much of the steel structure may be corroded or buried under sediment. The area’s conditions make diving accessible to experienced divers, though Visibility and currents could pose challenges.

RESOURCES & LINKS

•Great Lakes Historical Society: Information on maritime disasters and rescues.

•NOAA Shipwreck Database: Details on shipwreck locations and conditions.

•Google Books: Extensive records of Great Lakes shipping history and notable wrecks.

CONCLUSION

The story of the CLARION is a poignant reminder of the dangers inherent in Great Lakes navigation, especially during the volatile winter months. The ship’s loss highlights the constant risks faced by mariners, with fire and storm combining to seal its fate. It also sheds light on the heroic acts of other mariners, including nearby vessels that came to the crew’s aid. The CLARION remains a symbol of resilience and a testament to the perilous conditions of Great Lakes commerce during its era.

TAGS

#GreatLakes #Shipwrecks #LakeErie #MaritimeHistory #WinterStorms #RescueAtSea #SteelFreighter #HistoricalShipwreck