A Captured Schooner and the Tragic Fate of War #
During the decisive Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813, the American naval forces, led by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, faced off against the British fleet in a fierce struggle for control of the lake. As the battle raged on, the enemy line was carefully arranged with the schooner “CHIPPEWA” at the forefront, followed by their flagship “DETROIT,” the brig “QUEEN CHARLOTTE,” the brig “HUNTER,” the schooner “LADY PROVOST,” and finally the sloop “LITTLE BELT.”
Meanwhile, Perry’s flagship, the USS “Niagara,” had kept a safe distance from the enemy line, engaging in long-range artillery duels for about two hours. At the same time, Perry’s other ship, the USS “LAWRENCE,” found itself in close combat with the three heaviest vessels of the enemy fleet. This intense engagement lasted the same duration as the long-range exchange.
With the approach of the stormy season, Commodore Perry made the decision to send a portion of his squadron to Erie while the rest remained stationed at the lower end of Lake Erie. Unfortunately, during this movement, the USS “ARIEL” and the USS “CHIPPEWA” encountered mishaps that led to their tragic demise.
As the ships attempted to anchor at Buffalo, the “ARIEL” and the “CHIPPEWA” unexpectedly parted their cables, likely due to the strong winds and rough waters. Helplessly, they were driven ashore, where the unforgiving elements pounded them relentlessly. Ultimately, both vessels were reduced to wreckage, their final resting place forever marked by the shores of Buffalo.
The loss of the USS “CHIPPEWA” served as a poignant reminder of the perils faced by naval forces during the War of 1812. Its fate, along with that of the USS “ARIEL,” stands as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the Great Lakes and the sacrifices made by those who bravely fought on these treacherous waters.
Today, the story of the USS “CHIPPEWA” and its ill-fated encounter with the storm serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by sailors and the indomitable spirit that drove them to face the perils of battle. The shipwreck remains a testament to the courage and sacrifice displayed during the War of 1812, a chapter in history that continues to shape the legacy of the Great Lakes region.
