H. G. Williams US 11191

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: H. G. Williams
• Type: scow-schooner
• Year Built: 1863
• Builder: R. Hayes
• Dimensions: 90 ft (27.43 m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage: 154 tons
• Location: Cedar Point, Ontario
• Official Number: 11191

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The H. G. Williams was a wooden scow-schooner, characterized by a flat-bottom hull that made her suitable for shallow harbors and coastal navigation. This design was particularly advantageous for transporting bulk materials, such as coal, which was likely her cargo at the time of her loss.

Description

Built in 1863 at Fairport, Ohio by R. Hayes, the H. G. Williams was a wooden scow-schooner with a registered tonnage of 154 tons and an approximate length of 90 feet. The vessel was designed for bulk freight transport, primarily relying on being towed by steam vessels. This reliance made her vulnerable to sudden storms, as evidenced by her loss during a severe gale in August 1873.

History

The H. G. Williams was towed by the steam tug Sun across Pelee Passage when she broke free during a late-season gale on August 15, 1873. The scow drifted uncontrollably in high seas before grounding near Cedar Point, Ontario. The crew managed to take refuge aboard the tug or another vessel and survived the incident. Unfortunately, the vessel began to break apart under the relentless wave action, leading to her designation as a total loss, with no salvage attempts made.

Significant Incidents

• August 15, 1873: The H. G. Williams broke free from the steam tug Sun during a severe storm in Pelee Passage.
• The scow drifted uncontrolled and eventually grounded near Cedar Point, where it was wrecked by heavy seas.
• No casualties were recorded during the wreck, and the crew survived by taking refuge aboard the tug or another vessel.

Final Disposition

The H. G. Williams was declared a total loss as she began to break apart under the wave action after grounding. No salvage operations were undertaken, and the vessel was abandoned.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The current condition of the wreck is not documented, but it is likely that the remains of the H. G. Williams have deteriorated over time due to the harsh conditions of Lake Erie.

Resources & Links

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The loss of the H. G. Williams on August 15, 1873, highlights the dangers faced by towed scow-schooners in the Great Lakes, particularly during transitional seasons and in confined passages like Pelee Passage. The incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities of such vessels in adverse weather conditions.