NELLIE WILDER (1874)

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Identification & Site Information #

Name: NELLIE WILDER
Type: Wooden Schooner
Year Built: Mid-19th century (exact year not specified)
Owners: Everleigh and others; later, B. Overleigh of Sacketts Harbor
Final Disposition: Foundered on Galoo Island, Lake Ontario, October 1880
Cause of Wreck: Heavy winds and collision with rocks
Cargo: 20,000 bushels of wheat
Estimated Loss: Total loss, no insurance coverage
Coordinates: Near Galoo Island, Lake Ontario (exact coordinates not documented)

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Vessel Type Description #

The NELLIE WILDER was a wooden schooner, a common type of vessel used extensively on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Schooners like the NELLIE WILDER were known for their robust construction and ability to carry large quantities of cargo, such as grain, lumber, or coal. These vessels typically featured multiple masts and were designed to navigate the often treacherous waters of the Great Lakes, where sudden storms and hidden shoals posed constant threats.

History #

The schooner NELLIE WILDER embarked on her maiden voyage under the ownership of Everleigh and others, with hopes of a successful career ahead. However, her journey was marred by unfortunate incidents from the start. On June 4, 1874, while still under the same ownership, the vessel ran aground at Southeast Bend in the St. Clair River. The ship found herself trapped on an exposed rock, and despite the crew’s best efforts, she remained precariously perched for some time before being freed.

The NELLIE WILDER’s misfortunes continued as she faced another challenge in October 1880. Laden with a valuable cargo of 20,000 bushels of wheat, the vessel set sail for Ogdensburg, New York, but was caught in heavy winds near Galoo Island in Lake Ontario. The schooner was unable to withstand the force of the storm and collided with exposed rocks. Despite the crew’s efforts to save her, the NELLIE WILDER was overwhelmed by the elements.

Reports from the time indicate that the schooner became a total wreck. Her stern and one side were completely destroyed, and the hull was pierced by the unforgiving rocks, leading to her eventual breakup. The wheat, shipped by Williams & Co. of Toledo to Ogdensburg, was lost along with the vessel. The tragedy was compounded by the fact that the ship and her cargo were uninsured, dealing a severe financial blow to her owners, particularly B. Overleigh of Sacketts Harbor.

Final Disposition #

The wreck of the NELLIE WILDER off Galoo Island in October 1880 marked the end of the vessel’s short but tumultuous career. The schooner was torn apart by the storm and rocks, with no hope of salvage. The loss of the vessel and her cargo of wheat was a significant financial blow, especially given the lack of insurance coverage. The wreck remains a testament to the dangers faced by sailors on the Great Lakes, where unpredictable weather and hidden hazards claimed many vessels over the years.