Identification & Site Information

  • Name: J.A. Garfield
  • Official Number: Not listed in available registries
  • Date Built: Not specified in available records
  • Builder: Not specified in available records
  • Dimensions: Not specified in available records
  • Gross Tonnage: 72 tons
  • Date Lost: October 29, 1887
  • Place of Loss: South of Pelee Island, Lake Erie
  • Cause of Loss: Foundered in a northeast gale
  • Cargo: Stone
  • Crew: Not specified in available records
  • Ownership: Not specified in available records(en.wikipedia.org, alcheminc.com, enotrans.org)

Vessel Type

Wooden Schooner Barge(alcheminc.com)

Description

The J.A. Garfield was a wooden Schooner Barge with a Gross Tonnage of 72 tons. Specific details regarding her construction, dimensions, and builder are not available in the existing records.(alcheminc.com)

History

On October 29, 1887, the J.A. Garfield was en route with a cargo of stone when she encountered a severe northeast gale on Lake Erie. The storm proved too formidable for the vessel, causing her to founder south of Pelee Island. The total value of the vessel and her cargo was estimated at $750 at the time.

Final Disposition

The J.A. Garfield Foundered in a northeast gale south of Pelee Island on October 29, 1887, and was declared a Total Loss.(alcheminc.com)

Located By & Date Found

There are no records indicating that the wreck of the J.A. Garfield has been located.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no known navigational markers or advisories related to the wreck of the J.A. Garfield.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The J.A. Garfield serves as a historical example of the perils faced by maritime vessels on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Her loss underscores the dangers of severe weather conditions and the challenges of navigating these inland seas. The incident highlights the importance of maritime safety and the enduring legacy of those who worked the Great Lakes.

Keywords: J.A. Garfield, Lake Erie shipwreck, 1887 gale, wooden Schooner Barge, Pelee Island(alcheminc.com)

Categories: Shipwrecks of Lake Erie, 19th-century maritime incidents, Great Lakes schooners

Glossary Terms:

  • Schooner Barge: A type of vessel combining features of a Schooner and a Barge, often used for transporting bulk cargo.
  • Foundered: A term used to describe a vessel that has filled with water and sunk.
  • Gross Tonnage: A measure of the overall internal volume of a vessel, including all enclosed spaces.