A Stormy End on Lake Huron #
The story of the propeller Bucephalus is one of bravery, tragedy, and the unpredictable forces of nature. Built in 1852 in Perrysburg, Ohio, this wooden vessel embarked on a fateful journey from Chicago to Buffalo in November 1854. As the ship battled a violent storm on Lake Huron, it lost its rudder and was left at the mercy of the turbulent waters. Ultimately, the Bucephalus sank, claiming the lives of ten crew members and leaving a lasting mark on maritime history.
The Bucephalus, measuring 169 feet in length, 28 feet in beam, and 11 feet in depth, was a propeller-driven ship primarily used for passenger and freight transportation. Owned by Captain S. Alexander and Holt & Palmer of Buffalo, the vessel was no stranger to the waters of Lake Huron, as it plied the route between Buffalo, Chicago, and intermediate ports.
On November 7, 1854, the Bucephalus set sail from Chicago bound for Buffalo, laden with a cargo of corn, barrelled flour, and merchandise. As the ship made its way through Lake Huron, a powerful gale struck, causing the vessel to lose its rudder and rendering it helpless in the face of the relentless storm.
Overwhelmed by heavy seas, the Bucephalus succumbed to the ferocity of the storm. The ship filled with water and eventually sank, forcing the crew to abandon the vessel. Unfortunately, tragedy struck during the evacuation. One of the lifeboats capsized immediately upon launch, leading to the drowning of eight crew members. Two more lives were lost when another lifeboat capsized near the beach at Point Aux Barques, several miles away from the wreck site. In total, ten out of the twenty-four crew members lost their lives that fateful day.
Despite the harrowing circumstances, fourteen individuals managed to reach the shores of Point Aux Barques. They were fortunate to receive aid and care from locals who provided them with shelter, dry clothing, and comfort. The community’s compassion and assistance in the aftermath of the disaster were instrumental in ensuring the survivors’ well-being.
The sinking of the Bucephalus led to an outpouring of grief and shock throughout the region. The vessel, valued at $28,000, met its tragic end along with its cargo, causing substantial property loss amounting to $60,000. The incident underscored the risks faced by sailors and highlighted the unpredictable nature of Lake Huron’s waters.
The story of the Bucephalus did not end with its sinking. There were rumors that the vessel may have been raised at some point, although supporting evidence remains elusive. Another ship named Bucephalus was reported lost in Saginaw Bay in 1879, but it is unclear if it was the same vessel or a different one sharing the name.
The sinking of the propeller Bucephalus stands as a solemn reminder of the dangers faced by sailors in the 19th century and the power of nature to change lives in an instant. The bravery of the crew members who battled the storm and the support offered by the local community serve as testaments to the resilience and compassion of the human spirit. The tragic fate of the Bucephalus continues to echo through maritime history, reminding us of the inherent risks involved in navigating the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes.
