The COL. A.B. WILLIAMS was a schooner known for its sturdy construction, similar to other vessels built by D. Rogers at Big Sodus. Here are the details of the vessel’s history and its loss:
Specifications:
- Year of Build: 1856
- Type: Schooner, wood, 2-mast
- Builder: D. Rogers, Big Sodus, NY
- Length: 110 feet
- Beam: 24 feet
- Depth: 10 feet
- Tonnage: 342 tons (old style)
History:
- 1856: Enrolled in Oswego, New York.
- 1863: Owned by Morley & Brothers, Sodus, New York; 242 tons.
Loss:
On June 5, 1864, the COL. A.B. WILLIAMS faced its unfortunate fate in a collision. While sailing on Lake Huron, the vessel collided with the ore-laden bark TWILIGHT. The collision occurred around 3 a.m. The impact caused the COL. A.B. WILLIAMS to sink in approximately 85 feet of water, located about 3 miles below Port Sanilac. Thankfully, there were no reported casualties among the crew during this incident.
Details of the Loss:
Following the collision, the crew of the COL. A.B. WILLIAMS were rescued by a small boat from the TWILIGHT. The tug PRINDIVILLE later found some personal belongings of the crew floating on the surface a few days after the sinking. These belongings were recovered by the tug.
Additional Information:
The COL. A.B. WILLIAMS was owned by Granger, Bates, and Morley from Big Sodus. It was under the command of Captain Granger. At the time of its loss, the vessel was carrying coal. The ship’s master was Captain Morley.
In summary, the COL. A.B. WILLIAMS was a well-constructed schooner that met its end in a collision with the TWILIGHT on Lake Huron. Despite the sinking, the crew were rescued, and the vessel’s personal effects were eventually recovered. This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes.
