Identification & Site Information

• Wreck Name: COLONEL COOK (formerly AUGUSTA)

• Type: Wooden Schooner-Barge

• Date of Incident: July 15, 1891

• Location: Near Lorain, Ohio, Lake Erie

• Coordinates: 41° 30.540’ N, 82° 02.527’ W

• Depth: 20 feet (6 meters)

• Condition: Wreckage scattered near shore, with significant deterioration due to age and exposure

Vessel Type Description

Originally launched as the AUGUSTA in 1855, the COLONEL COOK was a two-masted wooden Schooner-Barge built by J.A. Baker (with master carpenter J. Navagh) in Oswego, New York. The vessel measured 129 feet in length, 25 feet in beam, and 11 feet in depth, with a Gross Tonnage of 266 tons and a Net Tonnage of 253 tons.

Designed for durability and large cargo capacity, the COLONEL COOK primarily transported heavy goods like stone across the Great Lakes. These Schooner-barges were essential to the Great Lakes shipping industry during the 19th century, supporting industries by delivering raw materials.

History

Construction and Early Service

• Launched in 1855 as the AUGUSTA, this vessel quickly became integral to the Great Lakes trade. However, its early history was marred by tragedy when, in 1860, it collided with the Steamer Lady Elgin. The collision caused the Lady Elgin to sink, resulting in a significant loss of life. Although the AUGUSTA was not found at fault, the negative associations with the disaster prompted its renaming to COLONEL COOK in 1861.

Significant Incidents

• July 1888: The COLONEL COOK suffered heavy damage and sank in a separate incident, resulting in the death of its master, Captain Ed Henderson.

• October 1892: The vessel ran ashore near Cleveland, remaining stranded until June 1893.

• July 15, 1891: On its final voyage, the COLONEL COOK was carrying a load of stone outbound from Kelley’s Island when it encountered a severe storm. Abandoned by its crew, the vessel drifted and ultimately sank near Marblehead, Lake Erie, marking a Total Loss.

Despite these repeated challenges, the COLONEL COOK continued operating across the Great Lakes, demonstrating the vessel’s resilience and its essential role in Great Lakes commerce. At the time of its loss, the vessel was valued at $3,000 and owned by J.A. and L.P. Smith of Cleveland.

Final Disposition

On July 15, 1891, the COLONEL COOK encountered a storm and was Abandoned by the crew, who managed to escape safely. The vessel ultimately sank near Marblehead, Lake Erie, and was declared a Total Loss. Today, the wreckage lies in shallow water near Lorain, Ohio, with debris scattered across the lakebed.

The wreck site remains an artifact of Great Lakes maritime history, highlighting the perils of navigation in the 19th century.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically regarding the COLONEL COOK wreck site. However, mariners and divers should exercise caution in the area due to shallow water and scattered debris that could pose navigational hazards.

Located By & Date

The COLONEL COOK wreck was documented shortly after its sinking in 1891. Its coordinates are well-known to local divers and maritime historians, making it accessible for historical exploration and study.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the COLONEL COOK rests at a depth of 20 feet (6 meters), making it accessible to divers. However, the wreck is significantly deteriorated due to over a century of exposure to the elements. The remaining debris, scattered along the lakebed, offers a tangible connection to the vessel’s storied past and provides insight into the construction and resilience of 19th-century Schooner-barges.

Resources & Links for Further Research

For more information on the COLONEL COOK and similar Great Lakes vessels, the following resources can be valuable:

• Erie Wrecks: A database and guide to shipwrecks in Lake Erie, including details on known wreck sites and historical incidents.

• Great Lakes Ships: General information and documentation on ships that operated on the Great Lakes.

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: An extensive archive with historical records, images, and documents related to Great Lakes vessels and incidents.

Conclusion

The COLONEL COOK (formerly AUGUSTA) had a long, eventful career on the Great Lakes, shaped by several significant incidents. Its collision with the Lady Elgin marked a dark chapter, but the vessel went on to serve for many years after its renaming. Despite repeated challenges and eventual loss in 1891, the COLONEL COOK serves as a testament to the resilience of Schooner-barges and the risks faced by mariners navigating the Great Lakes. The wreck, located near Lorain, Ohio, remains a historical site, reflecting the demands and dangers of 19th-century Great Lakes commerce.

Tags: #GreatLakes #Shipwrecks #LakeErie #MaritimeHistory #SchoonerBarge #ColonelCook #LorainOhio #HistoricalShipwreck #UnderwaterExploration