CASCADE U126913

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #

Wreck Name: CASCADE
Type: Steam Tugboat
Date of Incident: January 24, 1904
Location: Near Lorain, Ohio, Lake Erie
Coordinates: 41° 28.55′ N, 82° 11.50′ W
Depth: 30 feet (10 meters)
Condition: Wreck lies in moderate depth; likely in a state of deterioration due to the impact of ice and subsequent sinking

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The CASCADE was a wooden-hulled steam tugboat built in 1892 by O’Grady & Maher in Buffalo, New York. The vessel was constructed with high standards of engineering, featuring a powerful high-pressure non-condensing engine built by Whitman & Co. The tug was known for its large propeller and robust construction, making it one of the most capable tugs in Buffalo at the time.

The CASCADE measured 73.42 feet in length, 19.66 feet in beam, and 10.42 feet in depth, with a gross tonnage of 77 tons and a net tonnage of 38 tons. The tug was equipped with a 9′ x 15′, 145-pound firebox boiler, providing the necessary steam power for its operations on the Great Lakes.

HISTORY #

The CASCADE was launched in 1892 and quickly became known for its engineering excellence. Owned initially by the Hand & Johnson Tug Line, the tug was later transferred to Elihu M. Pierce and Walter R. Wood in 1895. The vessel was highly regarded for its powerful engine and large propeller, which allowed it to perform demanding tasks in Buffalo Harbor and beyond.

Throughout its operational life, the CASCADE was involved in various towing operations, assisting larger vessels and contributing to the bustling maritime activity on the Great Lakes. The tug’s powerful engine and robust design made it a valuable asset for its owners.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

On January 24, 1904, the CASCADE encountered heavy ice while operating on Lake Erie near Lorain, Ohio. The ice caused significant damage to the vessel, leading to its sinking approximately 1,000 feet northeast of the breakwall at Lorain. Despite the challenging conditions, the crew managed to escape, and there were no reported casualties.

The CASCADE now lies in 30 feet of water, where it remains as a testament to the perils faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes, particularly during the harsh winter months. The wreck is likely in a state of deterioration, with the wooden hull and other components affected by both the initial damage from the ice and the passage of time.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #

No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to this wreck site have been issued. However, mariners and divers should exercise caution when approaching the area due to the potential for debris and the shallow depth.

LOCATED BY & DATE #

The wreck of the CASCADE was reported immediately following the incident in 1904. The site has been documented in historical records and is accessible to those interested in exploring Great Lakes shipwrecks.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #

The wreck of the CASCADE lies in 30 feet of water, making it accessible to divers. Given the age of the wreck and the damage caused by the ice, the vessel is likely in a deteriorated state, with structural elements possibly collapsed or buried in sediment. Despite this, the site remains of historical interest, particularly for those studying the maritime history of the Great Lakes and the role of tugboats in regional shipping.

RESOURCES & LINKS #

Primary Sources: Historical records, maritime logs, and newspaper archives.
Further Reading:

CONCLUSION #

The CASCADE tugboat, with its robust construction and powerful engine, served the Great Lakes region for over a decade before succumbing to the harsh conditions of Lake Erie in January 1904. The vessel’s sinking underscores the risks faced by maritime vessels during the winter months, particularly those operating in icy waters. The wreck now lies near Lorain, Ohio, offering a glimpse into the challenges of early 20th-century maritime operations.