Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Mabel Wilson
- Type: Iron Ore Scow
- Year Built: 1886
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Not documented
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Cleveland breakwater, Lake Erie
- Official Number: Not listed
- Original Owners: P. J. Ralph, Detroit
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Wooden-hulled iron ore scow, reliant on tug propulsion.
Description
Mabel Wilson was built as a sturdy iron ore scow in 1886, intended for bulk haulage on the Great Lakes. Though lacking propulsion of her own, her hull was well-designed for heavy cargo when towed. At the time of her sinking, she carried a full load of ore, placing immense strain on her structure.
History
For twenty years, she transported iron ore under tow by various tugs. On May 28, 1906, she was upbound to Cleveland in poor weather. A violent gale struck near the harbor entrance; her tow lines parted, and she was driven directly onto the breakwater. Powerful waves shattered her hull; she pounded apart within minutes and sank in shallow water. The Lifesaving Service and tug T.C. Lutz rescued eight crew, but one sailor tragically drowned.
Significant Incidents
- May 28, 1906: Lost during a gale near Cleveland breakwater.
- Eight crew members rescued; one fatality reported.
Final Disposition
Sank at Cleveland breakwater; remains later dynamited to eliminate hazard to navigation.
Current Condition & Accessibility
No diving or archaeological surveys are recorded. The wreckage was removed as navigational debris.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”mabel-wilson-1886″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
Mabel Wilson exemplifies the dangers of towed bulk cargoes during severe weather. Although structurally suited for heavy loads, she lacked autonomy and was vulnerable in tight harbor approaches. Her loss highlights the importance of secured tow connections and diligent watch in gale conditions. While no dive site remains, her story offers critical lessons in maritime safety and towing operations.
Legacy Notes & Full Historical Record
This section preserves the original unedited Shotline content for this wreck so that no historical detail is lost as we transition to the new logbook format.
Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Mabel Wilson
- Official Number(s): Not listed
- Date Built and Launched: 1886 (exact launch date unknown)
- Measurements: Not documented in sources
- Date Lost: May 28, 1906
- Place Lost: Cleveland breakwater, Lake Erie
- Cause of Loss: Tore loose from tow in a gale, driven onto breakwater where she pounded apart and sank
- Cargo: Iron ore (fully loaded)
- Crew: Eight rescued; one fatality reported
- Ownership: Owned by P. J. Ralph, Detroit; Master: Capt. J.E. Gotham; being towed by propeller C.W. Elphicke, assisted by tug T.C. Lutz at time of loss (archive.org, greatlakesrex.wordpress.com)
Vessel Type
Wooden-hulled iron ore scow, reliant on tug propulsion.
Description
Mabel Wilson was built as a sturdy iron ore scow in 1886, intended for bulk haulage on the Great Lakes. Though lacking propulsion of her own, her hull was well-designed for heavy cargo when towed. At the time of her sinking, she carried a full load of ore, placing immense strain on her structure.
History
For twenty years, she transported iron ore under tow by various tugs. On May 28, 1906, she was upbound to Cleveland in poor weather. A violent gale struck near the harbor entrance; her tow lines parted, and she was driven directly onto the breakwater. Powerful waves shattered her hull; she pounded apart within minutes and sank in shallow water. The Lifesaving Service and tug T.C. Lutz rescued eight crew, but one sailor tragically drowned.
Final Disposition
Sank at Cleveland breakwater; remains later dynamited to eliminate hazard to navigation.
Located By & Date Found
No diving or archaeological surveys are recorded. The wreckage was removed as navigational debris.
Notmars & Advisories
No buoy or marker indicates the site. Since dynamited, nothing remains but submerged rubble; area remains a caution zone for shallow-water hazards.
Resources & Links
- Great Lakes Shipwreck Files – W section, including Mabel Wilson (greatlakesrex.wordpress.com)
- Duluth Evening Herald (May 28, 1906) – report on sinking and rescue efforts (archive.org)
Conclusion
Mabel Wilson exemplifies the dangers of towed bulk cargoes during severe weather. Although structurally suited for heavy loads, she lacked autonomy and was vulnerable in tight harbor approaches. Her loss highlights the importance of secured tow connections and diligent watch in gale conditions. While no dive site remains, her story offers critical lessons in maritime safety and towing operations.
mabel-wilson-1886 1906-05-26 12:17:00