Identification & Site Information

  • Original Name: Samuel Mather
  • Final Name: Clifton
  • Type: Steel-built, self-unloading Whaleback bulker
  • Built: 1892, West Superior, Wisconsin

Specifications:

  • Length: 308 feet (94 meters)
  • Breadth: 38 feet (11.6 meters)
  • Depth: 24 feet (7.3 meters)
  • Propulsion: Triple expansion steam engine
  • Final Voyage: September 22, 1924, Lake Huron

Vessel Type Description

The Clifton (originally Samuel Mather) was a steel Whaleback Bulk Carrier, built with a rounded Hull and low, arched Deck to reduce wave resistance and maximize cargo capacity. This self-unloading vessel was specifically designed to transport heavy bulk cargoes such as stone and iron ore efficiently across the Great Lakes. Constructed with advanced engineering for the time, the Clifton’s Whaleback design and powerful triple expansion engine made it well-suited for the region’s demanding commercial routes and heavy cargo requirements.

History

The Clifton began her life as the Samuel Mather, built in 1892 in West Superior, Wisconsin. She initially served under her original name, transporting bulk goods across the Great Lakes as a key part of the regional trade network. In 1922, she was renamed Clifton after changing ownership, continuing her service as a bulk cargo carrier with a focus on materials like crushed stone and iron ore.

On September 22, 1924, the Clifton embarked on what would be her final voyage. Laden with crushed stone, she set out through Lake Huron, bound for her destination. However, a sudden gale overtook the vessel, unleashing powerful winds and heavy waves that overwhelmed her. The storm’s severity caused the cargo to shift, and the Clifton capsized, turning “turtle” (upside down) and sinking with all 27 crew members on board, including her captain and officers. The incident highlighted the dangers of navigating Great Lakes waters in treacherous weather.

The official investigation confirmed that the shifting cargo was likely the primary cause of the disaster, leading to instability and the eventual capsizing of the vessel.

Final Disposition

The Clifton remained lost for decades until the summer of 2017, when her wreck was discovered off Harbor Beach, Michigan, approximately 100 miles (160 kilometers) southeast of her predicted location. Her Stern section stood intact, while the bow was heavily damaged, a silent witness to the forces of time and the fierce storm that claimed her.

Located By & Date

•Located By: Unspecified, discovered through sonar and underwater imaging

•Date of Discovery: Summer 2017

•Location: Off Harbor Beach, Michigan, Lake Huron

Notmar & Advisories

No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are issued for the Clifton wreck site, but the location remains protected to prevent unauthorized exploration.

Resources & Links

3D Model Clifton

Clifton by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Conclusion

The Clifton, originally the Samuel Mather, serves as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by mariners on the Great Lakes. Her story of strength, innovation, and ultimate tragedy reflects both the remarkable engineering of her time and the ever-present risks of lake navigation. The Clifton’s discovery in 2017 marked the end of a nearly century-old mystery and stands as a tribute to those lost in her tragic final voyage.

Keywords: Clifton, Samuel Mather, Lake Huron shipwreck, Great Lakes maritime history, Whaleback vessel, 1924 storm