DUNDEE U157366

On September 11, 1900, two vessels met their fate in Lake Erie during a severe storm. The steamer JOHN B. LYON and the schooner DUNDEE were both lost in the turbulent waters.

The JOHN B. LYON, which sank approximately five miles offshore, midway between Ashtabula and Conneaut, lies in about 60 feet of water. Reports from Detroit indicated that the vessel suffered extensive damage, making it impractical to attempt a salvage operation. The wreck was deemed beyond repair, and no efforts were made to raise the JOHN B. LYON.

On the other hand, the DUNDEE, owned by Mr. Gerlach of Cleveland, was considered a more viable candidate for salvage. Despite being submerged in Lake Erie, the vessel was relatively new, having been launched in 1893. The decision was made to raise and repair the DUNDEE. However, subsequent reports from Cleveland stated that Captain William Gerlach had abandoned the wreck to the underwriters. It is unclear whether the insurance companies claimed the vessel as a constructive total loss or if any salvage efforts were pursued by Captain Gerlach.

By October 9, 1900, the government survey steamer VISITOR had examined the location and condition of the sunken barge DUNDEE off Cleveland. The government authorities concluded that the wreck needed to be removed. Notices were issued to the owners, indicating that if they failed to take action, the government would intervene and undertake the removal process.

According to the Merchant Vessel List of 1900, the DUNDEE was a schooner with a gross tonnage of 1,043 and a net tonnage of 991. It was built in West Bay City, Michigan, in 1893. The vessel had a length of 211 feet, a width of 35 feet, and a depth of 16.5 feet. Its home port was Cleveland, Ohio. The DUNDEE primarily carried coal and had a history of various towing arrangements, including being towed by the CITY OF GLASGOW in 1894 and the ONOKO in 1898.

The sinking of the JOHN B. LYON and the wrecking of the DUNDEE added to the list of tragic incidents that occurred on Lake Erie, serving as reminders of the challenges and risks faced by vessels navigating these treacherous waters.