Identification & Site Information

Vessel Type

Wooden-hulled, two-masted Schooner

Description

The Augustus Ford was a wooden Schooner constructed in 1853 by Ford & Riggs in Dexter, New York. Measuring 107 feet in length, she was designed for bulk cargo transport across the Great Lakes, primarily engaged in the lumber trade. Throughout her service, she underwent repairs in 1869 and a Rebuild in 1877. The vessel had a history of incidents, including going ashore at Port Maitland, Ontario, in November 1874, resulting in the loss of four lives.(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)

History

On April 18, 1890, the Augustus Ford was navigating Lake Erie near Fairport, Ohio, carrying a cargo of lumber. She became beset by wind-driven ice and was wrecked near the harbor entrance. The incident resulted in the deaths of several crew members due to exposure, including Captain Pease, Charles Hurd, Lizzie Sullivan, and Thomas Brown. The steam Tug Sarah Bryant of Buffalo rendered assistance, removing the frozen bodies and salvaging part of the cargo. However, the Bryant was seized by Canadian authorities and detained for 30 days, along with a fine, for this act. The Augustus Ford was not officially declared lost until 1895.(Alchem Incorporated, US Data)

Final Disposition

The Augustus Ford was wrecked by wind-driven ice near Fairport, Ohio, and was considered a Total Loss. There is no record of salvage operations or attempts to recover the vessel. Her remains were likely left at the wreck site.(US Data)

Located By & Date Found

As of current records, there is no documentation indicating that the wreck of the Augustus Ford has been located or explored by maritime archaeologists or divers.

NOTMARs & Advisories

No current navigational warnings or advisories are associated with the wreck site of the Augustus Ford. Given the time elapsed and lack of precise location data, the site does not pose a known hazard to navigation.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The loss of the Augustus Ford underscores the perils faced by maritime vessels on the Great Lakes during the 19th century, particularly those involved in the lumber trade. Her wreck near Fairport, Ohio, adds to the numerous shipwrecks that have occurred in Lake Erie, contributing to the rich maritime history of the region. While the exact location of her wreck remains unknown, the Augustus Ford’s story is a testament to the challenges of lake navigation during that era.

Suggested Keywords, Categories, and Glossary Terms

  • Keywords: Augustus Ford, Lake Erie shipwreck, 19th-century Schooner, lumber transport, Fairport wreck
  • Categories: Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime Disasters of the 1890s, Lumber Transport Vessels
  • Glossary Terms:
    • Schooner: A type of sailing vessel with two or more masts, typically with the foremast shorter than the mainmast.
    • Beset by Ice: When a vessel becomes trapped or damaged by surrounding ice.
    • Total Loss: A term used when a vessel is damaged beyond repair.(Lake Erie Living)

Note: Due to the lack of precise location data and the time elapsed since the wreck, there is no shore dive information available for the Augustus Ford.