History
In the annals of maritime history, tales of tragic shipwrecks and lost lives serve as a poignant reminder of the perils faced by sailors. Among these stories is the tragic fate of the schooner Jessie Anderson, which met its untimely end off Long Point Cut on Lake Erie. Join us as we delve into the details of this harrowing event that claimed the lives of all onboard.
Built in 1861 by G. Woodworth in Sandusky, Ohio, the schooner Jessie Anderson had a proud history before its final voyage. With a length of 114 feet, a width of 26 feet, and a depth of 10 feet, the wooden vessel had a tonnage of 252 gross tons and 209 net tons. Owned by M & J Ryan of Detroit, the Jessie Anderson was no stranger to transporting grain across the Great Lakes.
Loaded with 14,000 bushels of wheat, the Jessie Anderson embarked on its journey from Port Colborne to Oswego on October 22, 1871. Unfortunately, disaster struck only eight days later, when the schooner foundered in Lake Erie. The exact cause of the tragedy remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from a sudden collision to the vessel springing a leak.
News of the Jessie Anderson’s loss reached Port Colborne, sparking concern for the crew’s safety. Despite efforts to locate survivors, no news of their rescue emerged. The crew, estimated to be around six individuals, including Captain J. Ryan and first mate William Brown, likely perished in the disaster. The loss of life, including the stewardess Emily J. Philips, sent shockwaves through the maritime community.
Months later, in June 1873, the wreckage of the Jessie Anderson was discovered by the tug W. A. Moore. The sight of the sunken vessel, with only twelve feet of its masts protruding from the water, served as a stark reminder of the tragedy that had unfolded.
The loss of the Jessie Anderson cast a shadow of grief over the maritime industry and the city of Detroit. The vessel’s owners, Messrs. M. & J. Ryan, mourned the loss of their ship and the crew members who had become part of their maritime family. The tragedy served as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by sailors and the need for continued efforts to improve safety measures on the Great Lakes.
The tragic loss of the schooner Jessie Anderson remains etched in the history of Lake Erie. As we reflect on the lives lost and the sorrow felt by those left behind, we honor the memory of the brave sailors who ventured out onto the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes. May their sacrifice serve as a reminder of the ever-present risks faced by those who navigate the seas.
