Identification & Site Information #
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Vessel Type Description #
The GEORGE WORTHINGTON was a wooden schooner, typical of the 19th-century vessels that plied the waters of the Great Lakes. Built in 1852, it was a three-masted schooner designed for cargo transport. The schooner was heavily utilized in the timber and ore trades, often facing the rough conditions of the Great Lakes. Throughout its operational life, the GEORGE WORTHINGTON underwent significant repairs and changes, reflecting the ongoing demand for reliable maritime transport during this period.
History #
The GEORGE WORTHINGTON had a storied maritime career, spanning several decades and involving multiple ownership changes. Built in 1852 at Euclid Creek, Ohio, the vessel originally served as a cargo schooner, navigating the often perilous waters of the Great Lakes.
- 1853: The vessel ran aground near Chicago, Illinois, highlighting the challenging conditions faced by ships during this era.
- 1860: Ownership transferred to N.M. Standart & Co. of Cleveland, Ohio. At this time, the schooner had a recorded tonnage of 350 tons.
- 1861-1863: Significant repairs were carried out, and ownership changed to S.W. Johnson and others in Cleveland.
- 1865: The vessel was acquired by Greening of Cleveland, who made further repairs to ensure the schooner’s continued service.
- 1866-1868: Ownership shifted to Greening & O’Neil, with the vessel maintaining a gross tonnage of 231.13 tons.
- 1872: The schooner may have undergone a rebuild at Vermillion, Ohio, under the direction of P. Minch. The rebuild likely included adjustments to its dimensions and structure, preparing it for continued service.
- 1874: Additional repairs were made to keep the vessel operational.
- November 1875: The GEORGE WORTHINGTON sank near St. Helena Island in the Straits of Mackinaw, marking a significant event in its operational history.
- 1879-1884: The vessel was acquired by Grummond of Detroit and became involved in the cedar post trade, being towed by various ships, including the MARY MILLS and HENRY HOWARD.
- July 22, 1887: The GEORGE WORTHINGTON met its tragic end in a collision with the ore-laden schooner George W. Davis near Colchester Reef on Lake Erie. The impact caused a severe breach in the hull, leading to the schooner’s sinking. Fortunately, the crew managed to escape to safety by boarding the George W. Davis.
The GEORGE WORTHINGTON was valued at $3,000 at the time of its sinking and was widely reported in newspapers such as the Detroit News, Port Huron Daily Times, Buffalo Morning Express, and The Marine Record. The vessel’s loss was a significant event, contributing to the maritime history of the Great Lakes.
Final Disposition #
The wreck of the GEORGE WORTHINGTON now lies at a depth of 32-40 feet (12 meters) on the bottom of Lake Erie, near Colchester Reef. The coordinates for the wreck site are N 41° 56.675′ W 82° 51.326′. Divers can explore the remains of this once-proud schooner, which played an essential role in the commercial shipping activities of the Great Lakes.
Tags #
- Shipwreck
- Schooner
- Lake Erie
- Great Lakes Maritime History
- 19th Century Vessel
- Colchester Reef
- George W. Davis Collision
Conclusion #
The GEORGE WORTHINGTON was a vessel that navigated the tumultuous waters of the Great Lakes for over three decades. From its construction in 1852 to its tragic sinking in 1887, the schooner played a crucial role in the economic activities of the region. Its history reflects the challenges faced by 19th-century maritime trade, where vessels had to endure storms, collisions, and other perils. The loss of the GEORGE WORTHINGTON near Colchester Reef serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in shipping during that era. Today, the wreck site offers a glimpse into the past for divers and maritime enthusiasts, preserving the legacy of this significant vessel.
Resources & Links #
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