IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Golden Fleece was a wooden schooner built in 1862 in Cleveland, Ohio. The vessel was initially constructed for the grain trade, operating between Chicago and various ports on Lake Erie. Over the years, the schooner underwent several rebuilds and modifications, including changes in rigging to adapt to its operational needs.
The Golden Fleece had a storied career on the Great Lakes, primarily transporting grain between Chicago and ports on Lake Erie. Launched in 1862, the vessel was involved in various incidents over its operational life, including several rebuilds that adapted it to the changing demands of lake commerce.
On October 16, 1890, during a severe gale, the Golden Fleece ran ashore near Dunkirk, New York, after its anchors were let go off Van Buren Point in an attempt to stabilize the vessel. Despite efforts by the U.S. Revenue Cutter Perry and other rescue teams, the schooner was declared a total loss on October 17, 1890.
Following its stranding, multiple salvage attempts were made over the next year. Wrecker Reid and the wrecking tug Seagull were involved in trying to free the vessel from the sand, but these efforts were ultimately unsuccessful. By the winter of 1891, it was decided that the Golden Fleece would remain on the beach until at least the following spring. The vessel was never salvaged and was considered a total loss.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The Golden Fleece remains partially visible on the shore near Dunkirk, New York. The vessel was abandoned after multiple failed salvage attempts, and it was ultimately surrendered. The wreck serves as a visible reminder of the dangers faced by ships on the Great Lakes during severe weather conditions.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to this wreck site have been issued. However, the site is visible on shore, and mariners should be aware of its location if navigating near Dunkirk, New York.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck was reported and documented shortly after the vessel ran aground in October 1890. Its position near Dunkirk has been well-known and visible since that time.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The Golden Fleece is accessible from the shore and is partially visible above the waterline. Due to its exposure to the elements and the failed salvage operations, the wreck is likely in a state of significant decay. The site is of interest to historians and those exploring the maritime history of Lake Erie.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Primary Sources: Historical newspaper articles, maritime logs, and vessel registration records.
- Further Reading:
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Great Lakes Ships
CONCLUSION #
The Golden Fleece met its unfortunate end near Dunkirk, New York, after decades of service on the Great Lakes. Despite numerous efforts to save the vessel, it ultimately became a total loss, with its remains still visible on the shore today. The wreck serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and risks faced by mariners on the Great Lakes.
TAGS #
- Tags: #GreatLakes #Shipwrecks #LakeErie #MaritimeHistory #Schooner #GoldenFleece #DunkirkNY #HistoricalShipwreck #VisibleWreck #GrainTrade
