The Wood Island Reef, near Munising, MI, stands as a reminder of a maritime tragedy that unfolded on Lake Superior. It was here that the barkentine CHENANGO met its demise during a violent storm. The incident occurred on November 19, 1875, with the loss of the vessel and its cargo of pig iron. Fortunately, no lives were lost in this unfortunate event.
The CHENANGO, with an official number of 4335, was built in Cleveland, OH, in 1862 by shipbuilder Ira Lafrinier. It was owned by N. C. Winslow & Co. of Cleveland, OH, at the time of its construction. This wooden-hulled barkentine measured 384 tons (old style) and featured three masts.
The CHENANGO’s history was marked by various incidents prior to its final loss. In August 1864, it collided with the propeller WENONA on Lake Huron, resulting in the loss of its jibboom and parts of its headgear. In August 1865, the vessel ran ashore at the mouth of Green Bay, Lake Michigan. Ownership of the CHENANGO changed hands over the years, with N.C. Winslow of Buffalo, NY, owning it in 1866 and Ferris of Chicago, IL, in 1871.
Tragedy struck the CHENANGO once again on that fateful day in November 1875. While being towed by the tug JAY C. MORSE, the vessel broke free during a squall. Unable to regain control, it went aground on Wood Island Reef near Munising, MI. Within a short time, the vessel was completely wrecked, becoming a permanent fixture of the reef. Its cargo of pig iron met the same fate, scattered amidst the wreckage.
The CHENANGO’s final loss serves as a testament to the perils faced by sailors navigating the unpredictable waters of Lake Superior. The vessel’s story, preserved through historical records, stands as a reminder of the challenges and risks inherent in maritime trade during the 19th century. Today, the remains of the CHENANGO on Wood Island Reef serve as a poignant reminder of the shipwreck’s enduring legacy and the bravery of those who sailed the Great Lakes.
