Identification & Site Information

Vessel Description

The C.F. Mischler was a small wooden-hulled steam Tug, approximately 51 ft in length, operating primarily near Erie for towing duties. Powered by a steam engine driving a single screw, she served local commercial or harbor operations.

History

Launched in 1898, the Tug served Erie-area maritime industries throughout the early 20th century. Records specifically mark her demise on October 28, 1915 in Erie, Pennsylvania—a fire consumed the vessel while at dock, ending her service (internationalmaritimelibrary.org).

Final Disposition

Following the dockside fire, the C.F. Mischler was declared a Total Loss. No records indicate salvage or abandonment of remains in water; she was likely dismantled or removed from the harbor post-destruction.

Located By & Date Found

As the loss occurred on the surface in the harbor, no underwater wreck exists. The incident was contemporaneously reported, but there’s no physical remnants.

NOTMARs & Advisories

No Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or navigational warnings were issued regarding the site, which involved a harbor fire and not an in-water obstruction.

Resources & Links

  • International Maritime Library: Incident date, type of loss, specifics regarding no fatalities (internationalmaritimelibrary.org)
  • Erie–Ashtabula Shipwrecks database (Alchem, Inc.): Confirms description: 51 ft wooden steam Tug destroyed by fire on 10/28/1915 (alcheminc.com)

Summary

The C.F. Mischler was a modest steam Tug built in 1898, serving Erie’s maritime commerce. On October 28, 1915, she was destroyed by fire while docked in Erie Harbor. With no loss of life, the vessel was written off and disappeared from the historical record—likely scrapped or disposed of on-site. No underwater site or wreckage remains today.