Identification & Site Information

  • Name: C.B. WALLACE
  • Former Name: J.V. LUTTS
  • Official Number: 76124
  • Date Built: 1880
  • Builder: I. Gillespie, Port Clinton, Ohio
  • Dimensions: 102 ft (31.1 m) length × 18 ft (5.5 m) beam × 3 ft (0.9 m) depth
  • Gross Tonnage: 99 tons
  • Net Tonnage: 82 tons
  • Date Lost: September 25, 1897
  • Place of Loss: Toledo, Ohio
  • Lake: Erie
  • Type of Loss: Fire
  • Cargo at Time of Loss: None
  • Loss of Life: None
  • Owner at Time of Loss: M.I. Wilcox
  • Propulsion: Sidewheel Steamer
  • Construction Material: Wood
  • Service Type: Passenger and package freight(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files, lakeerieliving.com, alcheminc.com)

Vessel Type

The C.B. WALLACE was a wooden sidewheel Steamer designed for passenger and package freight service on Lake Erie. Originally built as the J.V. LUTTS in 1880, the vessel underwent significant modifications in 1891, transforming from an “odd sidewheel rabbit” design into a more conventional passenger Steamer. This Rebuild likely included structural enhancements and updates to accommodate passenger comfort and cargo handling.(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)

Description

Measuring 102 feet in length with a beam of 18 feet and a depth of 3 feet, the C.B. WALLACE was relatively modest in size. Its sidewheel propulsion system was typical of the era, providing reliable service for short to medium-range routes across Lake Erie. The vessel’s wooden construction was standard for the time, though it made ships more susceptible to fire hazards.

History

Launched in 1880 as the J.V. LUTTS, the vessel served the Lake Erie region for over a decade before being Rebuilt and renamed C.B. WALLACE in 1891. The Rebuild aimed to modernize the vessel, possibly to meet evolving safety standards and passenger expectations. Under the ownership of M.I. Wilcox, the C.B. WALLACE continued to operate in the passenger and freight sector, contributing to the bustling maritime commerce of the Great Lakes during the late 19th century.(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)

Final Disposition

On September 25, 1897, while docked in Toledo, Ohio, the C.B. WALLACE was consumed by a fire of unknown origin. Despite efforts to control the blaze, the vessel was destroyed, resulting in a Total Loss. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported. The incident underscores the vulnerabilities of wooden steamers to fire, a common hazard of the period.

Located By & Date Found

There is no record of the C.B. WALLACE wreck being located or identified in Lake Erie. Given that the vessel burned at the dock, it is possible that the remains were salvaged or dismantled shortly after the incident.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current navigational warnings or advisories related to the C.B. WALLACE. As the vessel was destroyed by fire at the dock, it does not pose a hazard to navigation.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The C.B. WALLACE serves as a historical example of the challenges faced by wooden steamers in the late 19th century, particularly the risk of fire. Its service life reflects the dynamic nature of maritime commerce on the Great Lakes, and its loss contributes to the rich tapestry of shipwreck history in the region.(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)

Suggested Keywords, Categories, and Glossary Terms

  • Keywords: C.B. WALLACE, J.V. LUTTS, Lake Erie shipwreck, wooden sidewheel Steamer, 19th-century maritime history, Toledo maritime fire
  • Categories: Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime Disasters, Wooden Steamers, 19th Century Shipbuilding
  • Glossary Terms:
    • Sidewheel Steamer: A steam-powered vessel propelled by paddle wheels mounted on the sides.
    • Package Freight: Cargo consisting of packaged goods, as opposed to bulk commodities.
    • Gross Tonnage: A measure of the overall internal volume of a vessel.
    • Net Tonnage: A measure of the useful capacity of a vessel, excluding spaces not used for cargo or passengers.(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)