Lake Erie Shipwreck: Three-Masted Cargo Ship Discovered | Mariner News
Maritime explorers have announced the exciting discovery of a historic three-masted Lake Erie shipwreck, the bark Clough, a cargo ship that sank over 150 years ago. This significant find, made by the National Museum of the Great Lakes and Cleveland Underwater Explorers (CLUE), sheds new light on the region’s rich maritime past and the challenges faced by 19th-century sailors on the Great Lakes.
Unveiling the Clough’s Legacy
Built in 1867, the 125-foot Clough served as a vital stone-carrier, transporting essential materials across the Great Lakes. Tragically, its service was cut short, sinking on September 15, 1868, just a year after its maiden voyage. Its recent discovery offers a rare glimpse into the design and operation of these early Great Lakes cargo vessels, preserving a key piece of our marine heritage.
Dedicated Underwater Exploration
The discovery of this historic vessel is particularly poignant for the CLUE team, honoring the legacy of their founder, David VanZandt, who passed away during the identification efforts. His passion for uncovering sunken vessels continues to inspire the underwater exploration community. This significant find follows another recent Great Lakes shipwreck announcement: the luxury steamer Lac La Belle, found in Lake Michigan, further highlighting the ongoing efforts to document and preserve these invaluable maritime sites.
