A Tale of Loss on Lake Huron #
The Cascaden was a wooden-hulled schooner that met a tragic fate off the coast of Lake Huron. Built in 1866 and owned by Cascaden & Co., the schooner carried out various operations on the Great Lakes. This article delves into the construction, specifications, notable events, and ultimate loss of the Cascaden schooner.
The Cascaden was built by A. Hackett in Saugeen, Ontario, in 1866. This wooden-hulled schooner had a tonnage of 136 gross tons and featured a two-masted rig. With its solid construction, the Cascaden was regarded as a valuable vessel with a worth of $5,000. Its home port was Southampton.
Throughout its history, the Cascaden operated under the ownership of Cascaden & Co. The schooner undertook various tasks on the Great Lakes, contributing to the region’s maritime activities. However, a significant event would mark its final journey.
Tragedy befell the Cascaden on October 17, 1871, when it encountered a fierce storm off Cape Hurd, near Tobermory, Ontario. The schooner, carrying essential supplies for the Cove Island Lighthouse keeper and his family, found itself in dire straits. The vessel was unable to withstand the powerful gale, causing it to go ashore and wreck. The exact details of the loss, including the fate of the crew and potential loss of life, are not available.
The Cascaden schooner, constructed in 1866, played a role in the maritime activities of the Great Lakes. However, its journey came to a tragic end when it encountered a severe storm off Cape Hurd, Lake Huron. The vessel’s loss not only resulted in the destruction of the schooner but also had significant implications for the Cove Island Lighthouse keeper and his family, who were relying on the supplies carried by the Cascaden. The story of the Cascaden serves as a reminder of the perils faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes and the unpredictable nature of the storms that can wreak havoc on maritime activities.
