Identification & Site Information

  • Name: Governor Hunt
  • Former Names: None
  • Official Number: 10227
  • Date Built: 1853
  • Builder: D. Rogers, Olcott, New York
  • Dimensions: Not specified
  • Tonnage: 140 tons
  • Date Lost: August 15, 1869
  • Place of Loss: A few miles east of Conneaut, Ohio
  • Lake: Erie
  • Type of Loss: Storm
  • Cargo: 963 barrels of refined oil, 200 barrels of naphtha
  • Loss of Life: None
  • Home Port: Not specified

Vessel Type

The Governor Hunt was a wooden-hulled Schooner, a common type of sailing vessel used on the Great Lakes during the mid-19th century. Schooners were favored for their speed and capacity, making them suitable for transporting various cargoes across the lakes.

Description

Built in 1853 by D. Rogers in Olcott, New York, the Governor Hunt was a 140-ton wooden Schooner. While specific dimensions are not provided, vessels of this class typically featured two or more masts and were designed for the efficient transport of goods. The Schooner’s construction would have been robust to withstand the often harsh conditions encountered on the Great Lakes.(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)

History

Throughout its operational life, the Governor Hunt served as a cargo vessel on Lake Erie, transporting various goods between ports. On August 15, 1869, while carrying a cargo of 963 barrels of refined oil and 200 barrels of naphtha, the Schooner encountered heavy seas and a northeast wind near Erie, Pennsylvania. The vessel sprang a leak and, recognizing the severity of the situation, the crew attempted to return to Conneaut, Ohio. Despite their efforts, the Schooner was unable to make it back and ultimately Foundered a few miles east of Conneaut. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in the incident.

Final Disposition

The Governor Hunt sank due to the storm-induced leak and was declared a Total Loss. Details regarding salvage operations or the recovery of cargo are not specified in the available records.

Located By & Date Found

There is no specific information available regarding the discovery or exploration of the Governor Hunt’s wreck site.

NOTMARs & Advisories

No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories related to the wreck of the Governor Hunt have been identified.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The loss of the Governor Hunt highlights the perils faced by maritime vessels navigating the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Despite the challenges posed by severe weather conditions, the successful evacuation of the crew underscores the importance of preparedness and seamanship. The incident serves as a testament to the risks inherent in the transportation of hazardous cargoes and the unpredictable nature of lake navigation during that era.