The Wreck of the Schooner Cortez: A Tale of Maritime Tragedy and Heroism #
In November 1880, the schooner Cortez met a tragic end on the unforgiving shores of Lake Ontario, a stark reminder of the perils faced by mariners during the height of the Great Lakes shipping era. Owned by M.J. Cummings of Oswego, the Cortez was en route from Milwaukee to Oswego, laden with a substantial cargo of 19,000 bushels of wheat. However, its journey would be cut short by a devastating incident that would not only result in the loss of the vessel but also prompt investigations into the actions of the life-saving crew tasked with responding to the disaster.
The Grounding and Destruction of the Cortez #
On November 13, 1880, the Cortez encountered treacherous conditions as it neared the eastern shores of Lake Ontario. The schooner went aground at Sandy Creek, approximately 20 miles east of Oswego. The grounding caused severe damage to the vessel, which began to break apart under the relentless pounding of the waves. The crew of the Cortez was fortunate to be rescued, avoiding loss of life in the disaster.
Despite the efforts of Captain George McLeod, who represented the underwriters with a vested interest in the Cortez, the situation quickly deteriorated. Upon inspecting the wreck, Captain McLeod and other captains found that the vessel was beyond saving. The cabin, deck frames, and other sections aft of the mainmast had sustained significant damage. The Cortez’s rails were partially submerged, and the vessel was soon abandoned to the underwriters, who declared it a total loss. The wheat cargo, which had been the Cortez’s valuable freight, was scattered along the shore, rendering it unsalvageable.
As the days passed, the Cortez continued to deteriorate, eventually going to pieces. While both the vessel and its cargo were fully insured, the wreck of the Cortez marked the end of a once-proud schooner and a significant loss for its owners.
Investigations and Controversy #
The aftermath of the Cortez’s wreck was marked by controversy and investigation, particularly concerning the role of the life-saving crew stationed at Big Sandy Creek. Criticism had been levied against the crew for their perceived failure to reach the wrecked schooner in time, with allegations of inefficiency, neglect, and even cowardice circulating among the public.
In response to these accusations, Captain D.P. Dobbins, superintendent of life-saving stations, conducted a thorough investigation into the matter. His findings revealed that the crew was not at fault for their inability to reach the Cortez in time. The investigation highlighted the extreme rough conditions on the lake that day and the significant challenges posed by the flooded and treacherous terrain the crew had to navigate while attempting to reach the wreck.
The citizens of Ellisburgh rallied in support of the life-saving crew, emphasizing the dangerous and challenging circumstances they faced during the rescue attempt. They countered the negative claims, asserting that the crew had made significant efforts to reach the Cortez and should not be blamed for the unfortunate outcome.
A Legacy of Maritime Challenges #
The wreck of the Cortez and the subsequent investigations into the actions of the life-saving crew underscore the complexities and difficulties inherent in maritime rescue operations on the Great Lakes. The incident illustrates how even the best efforts of skilled sailors and rescue teams can be thwarted by the relentless forces of nature.
The Cortez now joins the long list of vessels that met their end in the unpredictable waters of Lake Ontario. While the schooner itself is lost to history, the story of its final voyage serves as a testament to the bravery and determination of those who sail and those who risk their lives to save others on the Great Lakes.
References #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes – This online resource provides comprehensive details on shipwrecks and maritime incidents on the Great Lakes, including the wreck of the Cortez. Available at: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File – A valuable database for information on Great Lakes shipwrecks, offering insights into the Cortez and similar incidents.
- Great Lakes Ships Database – This repository includes information on ships like the Cortez, their voyages, and their fates. Available at: Great Lakes Ships
- Newspaper Archives – Historical newspapers from the period provide contemporary accounts of the Cortez’s wreck and the ensuing investigations.
