E.K. BRUCE

E. K. BRUCE. Built in 1848 by Bidwell & Banta in Buffalo, New York, this wooden schooner had a tonnage of 240 and measured 119 feet in length, 25 feet in beam, and 10 feet in depth. The vessel was owned by William Buckley of Buffalo.

The E. K. BRUCE was known for its sturdy construction and reliable performance. It was named after Mr. Bruce, a prominent figure in the firm Fox & Bruce, and was highly regarded among its competitors. However, fate had other plans for this schooner.

In October 1853, the E. K. BRUCE set sail from Oswego harbor bound for Toledo. The weather was turbulent, with a fierce gale blowing from the northwest. Despite the challenging conditions, the schooner embarked on its journey, carrying a valuable cargo of 1,300 pieces of railroad iron.

Tragically, the gale took its toll on the E. K. BRUCE. As the powerful winds raged, the vessel’s jib split, and it was driven onto the rocky shore just 1.5 miles west of Oswego harbor. The schooner found itself in a perilous situation, battered by heavy waves crashing against its hull.

The unfortunate turn of events was compounded by the fact that the captain of the E. K. BRUCE had deserted the ship just days before its ill-fated departure. He not only abandoned his duties but also absconded with the vessel’s money. Consequently, the mate was left in charge of the schooner during its final voyage.

Despite efforts to salvage the vessel, the E. K. BRUCE ultimately succumbed to the destructive force of the storm. Within days, the schooner broke apart, leaving only remnants of its once-impressive structure. Fortunately, some of the rigging and the cargo of railroad iron were salvaged from the wreckage.

The loss of the E. K. BRUCE was a blow to its owner, William Buckley, who had entrusted the vessel to the captain’s care. The schooner’s value was estimated at $8,000, a significant loss at the time. It is likely that the vessel was insured, providing some financial relief to the owner.