C G WHITE (1895) As many as 11 men were lost on Wednesday, April 24, 1895 when the American schooner C G White ran ashore in the Trinity Island Reefs during a westerly gale and snowstorm. The vessel had departed San Francisco February 28 on a seal hunting and fishing trip with Zart Isaackson of San Francisco as master and a crew of 28. The following are excerpts from the wreck report filed July 24, 1895 by managing owner A P Lorentzen:
“On SW end of Kodiak Island…ran ashore in a snowstorm.” “Some of the crew were saved and cared for by natives, who afterwards took them to Wooded Island, where some died and others recovered. Some lost limbs by frost bite. All the officers were lost, either drowned or died on the beach from cold. No papers saved, and no other particulars received except through newspapers.”
The following is an accounting from Lewis and Dryden Marine History of the Pacific Northwest:
“The same gale that sent the (Walter A) Earle on her last cruise ended the career of the old Columbia River pilot schooner C G White.” “She was caught off the Alaska shore by the gale, which was accompanied by a blinding snowstorm, with Thermometer three degrees below zero. Her sails were carried away, the fore topmast went by the board, and her rudder became disabled. In this helpless condition she was carried before the wind, and just before morning struck a submerged reef and was soon smashed to pieces. A line was made fast to shore, and twenty five of the crew reached land in safety, three losing their lives before the line was secured. Eight of those who landed perished from starvation and exposure, and several of the others were so badly frozen as to render amputation of limbs necessary. They were finally rescued by some Indians, and taken to Kodiak. Capt Gus Isaacson was one of the eleven who perished.”
In an article in the N Y Times from August 6, 1895: “When the wreck occurred, the first to get ashore were Bail, Marillo, Sweeney and Rogers who started for assistance to the nearest settlement, a place called Okyok, thirty-seven miles away, across a lagoon. The snow was neck high. Bail was the only one to reach the place, the others succumbing to their injuries and the intense cold”
The storm that caused the loss of the C G White is referred to as “the great Easter gale of 1895”. The below lists of passengers and crew of the C G White was compiled from a number of publications. Names crewmembers names were often spelled differently from one news story to the next. Abbreviations for the sources of names and other information are put with each of the names for clarity.
Names and particulars come from the following publications:
SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE of Friday May 10, 1895 (SFC-10)
THE NEW YORK TIMES August 7, 1895 (NYT-7)
PACIFIC COAST NEWS VOLUME LXXVII.—No. 148 May 7, 1895 Pg. 14 (PCN-7)
SAN FRANCISCO CALL TUESDAY May 14, 1895 (SFC-14)
FUR TRADERS REVIEW VOL 22 NO 11 June 1, 1895 (FTR-61)
VICTORIA June 7, 1895 (VCT67)
EMIL BAIL personal letters (EBPL)
Names of passengers and crew lost:
- Captain Gustave (Gus)(Zart) Isaacson (SFC-10) (PCN-7) Died of exposure on the beach (EBPL) (FTR-61)
- Hunter Henry Ledger (SFC-10) Henry George drowned 50 feet from shore (EBPL) (SFC-14)
- Mate A.W. Thompson (PCN-7) Went overboard and drowned in the wreckage (EBPL) was also a captain of the sealing schooner Lily L (FTR-61) At the helm when the vessel struck. Told the survivors to “take this ring to my little girl in Oakland”. (EBPL)
- Hunter Dan Doole (PCN-7) Daniel Dover of Santa Barbara went insane on the beach and died of exposure near the lagoon. (EBPL)
- Hunter Harry Harmsen (PCN-7) H. Hamsden made it to Wood Island but died after legs amputated. (EBPL) In the past he was the captain of schooners Alexander and Mary H Thomas. (FTR-61) Henry Hansen lost both feet above the ankles (EBPL) (VCT67)
- Hunter Charles Haritwen (PCN-7) “Long Charlie” Hartmen died of exposure on beach (EBPL) (SFC-14) Long Charlie was a pioneer in the fur trade and had been captain of the sealing schooner Louisa D.
- Cook Charles Lind (PCN-7) First man to drown(EBPL)
- Donkey Engineer T.J. Hurdel (PCN-7) Thomas Hurdle drowned during wreck (EBPL)
- Seaman William Backey (PCN-7) William Backey died of exposure on beach (EBPL)
- Seaman J.E. Silver (Silva) (PCN-7) John Silva as washed overboard and never seen again (EBPL)
- Seaman Manuel Vasquitz (PCN-7) Manuel Murillo died of exposure in the snowfields near the lagoon (EBPL)
Names of passengers and crew who survived:
- W.E. (E.T.) Emil Bail marine engineer and first to Akhiok for help (lost both feet) (NYT-7) (PCN-7) A.W. Bail (VCT67)
- First Officer Chris Swendson (SFC-14) Limbs amputated at Kodiak Wood Island.
- Seamen, Charles Hansen (PCN-7)
- Thomas Hansen (EBPL) was washed overboard but thrown back by another breaker.
- Seaman J. Harrison (PCN-7)
- Donkey Engineer A.A. Hunter (PCN-7)
- Seaman Andrew Johnson (PCN-7) Feet amputated (VCT67)
- Seaman Jacob Johnson (PCN-7) Jacob Janson was first to reach shore with a line. (EBPL)
- Seaman Ingo Lach (PCN-7)
- M. Mathieson (Mateson), a sailor (lost 1 toe right foot) (EBPL) (NYT-7) (PCN-7)
- F.A. Murray, a seaman, had the entire front of the left foot amputated to save his life. (EBPL) (NYT-7) (PCN-7)
- O’Brien (VCT67) Feet amputated
- Hunter Gus Olsen (SFC-10)
- Japanese seaman Phivs (PCN-7)
- F.F. Rogers had feet amputated (VCT67)
- Seaman P.J. Rooney (PCN-7)
- F.G. Sweeney (W.A. Sweeney) made it to Akhiok 30 minutes behind Emil Bail. (EBPL)
- E. J. Voisionet (Vaisinet), a French youth who shipped as cabin boy, is the worst mutilated. His injuries include the loss of two toes and the heelbone of the left foot, the first and second toes of the right foot, three and a half fingers from the left hand, two from the right, and the tips of the ears. (EBPL) (NYT-7) (PCN-7)
- Gustave (August) Wickstrom second mate and only surviving officer (lost 3 toes right foot and one large bone) (EBPL) (NYT-7) (PCN-7)
- Japanese seaman Yoko Zama (PCN-7)
- Seaman A. Zeyn (PCN-7)
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 50 N 154 10 W Charts 16580, 16590
Comment: There are 20 survivors and 11 lost crewmen listed above which totals more than were reported as being aboard the C G White. The ship’s papers were lost with the wreck so accounting for who was aboard is difficult. WG
Additional Information: Tonnage 73.51 Net, Age 8 years, Built 1887 San Francisco, Length 81.5, Breadth 23, Depth 9.5, Registration San Francisco, ON 126439, Owner A P Lorentzen of Alameda, Vessel value $7,000, Cargo Value $5,000 outfit, Vessel Insurance $2,000, Cargo Insurance none
Additional Sources: 1. U S Customs Wreck Report (July 24, 1895) filed at San Francisco by managing owner A P Lorentzen, 2. Lewis and Dryden’s Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1961) Pg 452, 3. N Y Times (August 6, 1895), 4. U S Revenue Cutter Service Files (1867-1914) Roll #4
C L ANDERSON (1964) The 95 ton 71 foot wooden oil screw State of Alaska fishing vessel C L Anderson was destroyed by a storm March 25, 1964 at Kaline Rock, Kodiak Island.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska Unknown
Comment: There is no Kaline Rock in the Dictionary of Alaska Place Names and I cannot find one on any chart. If I were to hazard a guess, I would say this is a typo for Kalsin Rock or Reef just south of Kodiak at the entrance to Kalsin Bay. Further research is warranted. WG
Additional Information: Tonnage 95 Gross 77 Net, Length 71.2, Breadth 21.1, Depth 9.7, Built 1939 at Tacoma, Former Names Belvedere and Lucky Boy, Horsepower 210, SL WA7382, Owner State of Alaska, Registered Juneau, ON 238881
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 109, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1164
C LIUN (1988) The 32 foot vessel C Liun was consumed by fire October 20, 1988 in Larson Bay.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 32 30 N 153 58 40 W Chart 16580
Source: Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak)
C P #4 (1938) A small motor craft identified as C P #4 was lost at Kenai August 28, 1938.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 33 N 151 16 W Chart 16662
Source: The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 466
C P #12 (1938) The 26 ton 51 foot wooden scow C P #12 stranded and was lost at the mouth of the Kenai River August of 1938. There was no one aboard and no lives were lost.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 33 N 151 16 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: Tonnage 26 Gross and Net, Length 51, Breadth 15.9, Depth 4.1, Built 1914 at Bellingham WA, Owner Puget and Alaska Canning Company of Washington, Registered Seattle, ON 165806
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1939) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 513, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1938) Pg 339
C P P C #1 (1924) The 22 ton wood scow CPPC #1 was lost at noon on Thursday September 4, 1921 at Point Gord. She was loaded with 10 tons of salt, barrels and equipment bound for Horseshoe Bay having departed Red Fox Bay on September 3rd. Her tow line parted in a storm that arose after the start of the voyage and she blew out to sea. The CPPC #1 was valued at $1,000 as was her cargo.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 12 N 150 57 30 W Chart 16640
Comment: The Gord Point on the wreck report is probably Gore Point which lies on the route from Red Fox Bay on Afognak Island to Horseshoe Bay on Latouche Island in Prince William Sound. WG
Additional Information: Built 1922, Registration Cordova, ON 168428, Master Albert Anderson of Seattle, Owner Canoe Pass Pkg. Co. of Seattle, Insurance none
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed by J S Jenson, Supt., on March 18, 1925 at Seattle
C R P NO 4 (1945) The 33 ton 55 foot wooden scow C R P No 4 foundered March 8, 1945 in Prince William Sound.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 45 N 147 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: Tonnage 33 Gross and Net, Length 55.7, Breadth 17.9 Depth 4, Built 1919 at Seattle, Owner Copper River Packing Company, Registered Juneau, ON 170267
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1946) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 804, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1945) Pg 381
C STEWARD (1926) The unmanned gas screw C Steward was at anchor at Chignik when it broke up and was abandoned April 1, 1926. It was reported to have no value at the time of the loss.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 18 N 158 24 W Chart 16566
Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 7 Net, Cargo none
Source: Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992)
C-S-F (1951) The 70 ton 63 foot steel oil screw fishing vessel C-S-F stranded and was lost May 14, 1951 at Leonard Island near Cold Bay, Bering Sea.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 08 N 162 27 W Chart 16549
Comment: I have charted this wreck at Lenard Harbor in Cold Bay near the Bering Sea. WG
Additional Information: Tonnage 70 Gross 47 Net, Length 63.4, Breadth 18.8, Depth 6.3, Built 1934 at Seattle WA, Crew 8, Horsepower 135, SL WA 3972, Owner Newport Fisheries Incorporated, Registered Seattle, ON 233194
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1951) Pg 122, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1952) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 955
CAJUN MAMA (1992) The 71 foot fishing vessel flooded from the stern, capsized and sank May 26, 1992 approximately 30 nautical miles SSW of Cape Cleare. High seas and 40 knot winds contributed to the disaster. All five on board were rescued by a U S Coast Guard Helicopter.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 50 N 147 50 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: ON 518571
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CALISTA SEA (1982) The 108 foot crab fishing vessel Calista Sea sank January 20, 1982. The vessel began taking on water near the Shumagin Islands. She was under tow by the vessel Polar Shell on the way to Kupreanof Harbor when the disaster occurred. The six persons aboard the Calista Sea were picked up by the fishing vessel Patricia Lee.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 46 30 N 150 22 W Chart 16556
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAMELOT (1982) The 34 foot fishing vessel Camelot capsized and grounded in heavy weather May 22, 1982 near Hinchinbrook Island 25 miles southwest of Cordova. Richard T Hinde was lost.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 23 N 146 28 W Chart 16700
Comment: The fishing vessels B J and Nasty Habit were also lost in the same area overpowered by the same storm. WG
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAMILLA A (1909) The American wooden scow Camilla A foundered in heavy seas and became a total wreck at 9:00 p.m. on June 15, 1909 at Chignik Bay. She was being captained by Adam Kerz of LaCrosse, Wisconsin with the help of one crewman. The vessel left Cordova on June 11 bound for Saint Michael; no cargo. The steamer St. Helens assisted in towing the Camilla A into a harbor. The crew was unharmed.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 22 N 158 W Chart 16566
Additional Information: Tonnage 322.96, Built 1908 Seattle, Registration Seattle and Port Townsend, ON 163500, Owner Yukon Trans. & Trading Co., Vessel Value $7,000, Cargo none, Insurance none
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed July 1, 1909 by Kerz
CAPE BARNABAS (1964) The 10 ton 29 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Cape Barnabas was destroyed by a tidal wave March 27, 1964 on Kodiak Island.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 9 Net, Length 29.7, Breadth 11.1, Depth 4, Built 1947 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 65, SL WL2907, Owner Kadiak Fisheries Company, Registered Ketchikan, ON 252189
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 108, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1002
CAPE CHACON (1987) The 44 foot seiner Cape Chacon capsized and sank June 19, 1987 approximately 50 miles south of Montague Island. A U S Coast Guard helicopter picked up three of the crewmen from a life raft. The fourth crewman, Tom Banks of Kodiak was lost.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 10 N 147 15 W Chart 16013
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAPE CLEARE (1988) The 51 foot wooden long line fishing vessel Cape Cleare foundered April 8, 1988 approximately 35 miles south of Kodiak. Five of her crewmembers abandoned ship to a life raft when she began taking on water. A sixth was pulled from the water by a U S Coast Guard Helicopter. There was no loss of life.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAPE FAIRWELL (1982) The 72 foot fishing vessel Cape Fairwell ran aground, overturned and was lost January 12, 1982 north of Mitrofania near Chignik. The four person crew was picked up by the Aleutian Spirit and transferred to the Polar Shell.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 59 N 158 43 W Chart 16011
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAPE KARLUK (1947) The 15 ton 32 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Cape Karluk burned June 21, 1947 off of Kumlik Island.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 38 N 157 24 W Chart 16566
Additional Information: Tonnage 15 Gross 13 Net, Length 32.6, Breadth 12.0, Depth 5.2, Built 1946 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 107, Owner Kadiak Fisheries Company, Registered Ketchikan, ON 249478
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1948) Pg 71, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 909
CAPE KARLUK (1964) The 12 ton 31 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Cape Karluk was destroyed by a tidal wave March 27, 1964 at Shearwater Bay.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 20 N 152 55 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross 9 Net, Length 31.3, Breadth 11.2, Depth 4.6, Built 1945 at Edmonds WA, Horsepower 105, SL WS8683, Owner Kadiak Fisheries Company, Registered Juneau, ON 271011
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 109, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1002
CAPE KARLUK (1988) The 32 foot fishing vessel Cape Karluk was destroyed in a storm January 12, 1988 in Geese Island Channel. All three on board were lost including Merle P Ashouwak (24), Jerry D Christiansen (30) and Eugene Naumoff (34), all from Old Harbor. The vessel was seeking shelter in Russian Harbor from 40 to 60 knot winds.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 45 N 153 53 W Chart 16580
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAPE SPENCER (2010) The 47 foot fiberglass fishing vessel Cape Spencer foundered May 20, 2010 three miles south of Montague Island in Prince William Sound. The vessel reported she had a flooded engine room and was in danger of sinking. All four crewmembers abandoned ship in survival suits to a life raft and were rescued by a U S Coast Guard Jayhawk Helicopter from Cordova and transported to Seward. The survivors included owner operator Thomas Tomrdle (61) and his son Thomas Tomrdle both of Kenai as well as James Hilala (70) and Jeremy Sullivan (34) both of Whittier. At the time of the sinking winds were 28 miles an hour with seas to six feet.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 10 N 147 15 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: ON 592651, Built 1978 Auburn WA
Sources: 1. U S C G District 17 Enforcement Report (May 20, 2010), 2. ADN Alaska News (September 29, 2010) “Coast Guard rescues 4 from sinking boat”
CAPE UGANIK (1969) The oil screw Cape Uganik was destroyed by a storm June 7, 1969 in Kanatak Lagoon.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 31 N 156 02 W Chart 16570
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAPE UYAK (1986) The 34 foot fishing vessel Cape Uyak was gutted by fire October 22, 1986 at the Channel Transit Float in Kodiak. Lost in the fire was John F Connery (18) of Raymond, Washington. Connery had apparently died of carbon monoxide poisoning. The fire was determined to have originated in the galley.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Source: Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak)
CAPELLA (1980) The 85 foot steel crab fishing vessel Capella rolled over and sank March 29, 1980 between Deer and Fox Islands near King Cove. Four of her five crewmembers were lost in the disaster. Lost were skipper Ogie Berg (40), his older brother Dagfin “Finney” Berg (45), Robert J Connelly (45) and Jack Fink. Scott Pickering of Seattle was the lone survivor. The vessel had run onto a rock off Cape Lazaref late in the evening of March 27 during heavy weather. Damage was done to the Capella’s lazarette and rudder. Early the following morning the Capella was able to communicate her distress to the tanker Alaska Standard. A tow was initiated using the anchor tackle of the Capella. A storm set in and the Alaska Standard decided to seek shelter at the Fox Island Anchorage with the Capella tethered by her anchor tackle. Winds were at 50 knots and seas 10 to 15 feet. Just after 1:00 the morning of March 29, 1980 the Capella capsized and sank.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 54 57 N 162 25 30 W Chart 16011
Additional Information: Tonnage 144 Gross 107 Net, Length 72.6, Breadth 23, Depth 10.8, Built 1963 Jacksonville FL, ON 290516, SL WN4182, Owner Peter E. Evich, Home Port Seattle
Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. The Seattle Times (March 31, 1980) “Survivor of capsizing identified” Pg D-3, 4. The Seattle Times (April 1, 1980) “2 Seattle brothers among drown victims” Pg E-18, 5. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) Pg 245, 6. Berg v. Chevron U.S.A. INC.
CAPRICE (1999) The 68 foot steel fishing vessel Caprice flooded her engine room and sank at 2:30 a.m. June 6, 1999 approximately 11 miles southeast of Nuka Island in the Gulf of Alaska. The vessel was travelling from Seward to Kodiak at the time of the disaster. Severe flooding was noted aft of the reduction gear just after midnight. All four crewmembers donned survival suits and abandoned ship to a life raft two hours later. They were rescued by the fishing vessel Kaia. The Caprice had run aground a month before near False Pass when a crewmember fell asleep at the helm. A cursory condition and valuation survey was done at the Seward Shipyard after the grounding but no abnormalities were noted.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 22 N 150 40 W Chart 16680
Additional Information: ON 565511, Built 1975, Former Name Credence, Call Sign WYP6558, Owner Nordic Marine Inc.
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013), 3. USCG MISLE Case # 907154
CAPRICORN (1992) The 43 foot fishing vessel Capricorn was consumed by fire and sank March 27, 2992 in Kachemak Bay. There was no loss of life.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 35 N 151 52 W Chart 16640
Additional Information: ON 946981
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
CAPT WORDEN (1928) Several days after returning from Bethel, the Capt. Worden drug anchor during the night and broke up on the beach at Dillingham. William Johnson, master of the vessel, gave the following information in his wreck report filed at Seward on April 4, 1929:
“Departed Bethel, Alaska, Nov. 15, 1928 bound for Dillingham.” “Returned from Bethel, anchored off shore for several days, wind arose in night and drug anchor and boat on shore, there she was discovered broken in the morning. There could be no efforts made to save her.”
The night was dark and the wind was reported to be blowing 40 northeasterly. The Capt. Worden was valued at $1,400 at the time of the loss and had no cargo.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 02 30 N 158 27 30 W Charts 16011, 16322
Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross 8 Net, Age 28 years, Registered at Nome, ON 200511, Owner D J Horgan of Nome, Crew two
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report
CAPT’N ANDREW (2011) The 58 foot steel fishing vessel Capt’N Andrew ran aground at Bold Cape March 6, 2011. The fishing vessel Just In Case borrowed a skiff from the King Cove Harbormaster and rescued the five persons aboard the Capt’N Andrew. Magone Marine was contacted to perform salvage operations.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 01 30 N 162 15 W Chart 16520
Additional Information: ADF&G 75676, Owner Corey K Wilson
Sources: 1. 17th Coast Guard District Enforcement Report (Dec 2010-Mar 2011), 2. Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission
CARDINAL (1923) The 950 ton 180 foot steel steam screw Navy minesweeper Cardinal stranded and was lost June 6, 1923 on the rocks off the southern end of Chirikof Island. The officers and crew of the wreck were picked up by the USCGS Discoverer and the Navy oiler Cuyama. No lives were lost in the disaster. The 1938 Coast Pilot mentions:
“In 1923 the U.S.S. Cardinal was wrecked on the east side of Chirikof Island and the survey ship Discoverer while engaged in rescue work struck a reef about 1 ½ miles offshore” “Vessels crossing the Gulf of Alaska westbound are often subjected to a strong northerly set and should verify their position by sounding when approaching the meridian of Chirikof Island. It was the northerly set in conjunction with thick weather that was responsible for the loss of the Cardinal in 1923”
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 50 N 155 37 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 950, Length 180, Breadth 35.5, Depth 9.8, Horsepower 1,400, Built 1918 at Staten Island NY, Single screw, Single mast, Officers 5, Crew 67, SL GTRW, Class Lapwing AM-6
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1923) Pg 145 & Pg 529, 2. United States Coast Pilot Alaska Part II (1938) “Chirikof Island-Currents” Pg 208
CARLISLE I (1956) The 35 ton 56 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Carlisle I was consumed by fire April 12, 1956 at Cordova.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 33 N 145 45 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: Tonnage 35 Gross 24 Net, Length 56.1, Breadth 13.8, Depth 6.1, Built 1912 at Tacoma WA, Horsepower 135, SL WA3375, Owner New England Fish Company, Registered Seattle, ON 210038
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) Pg 93, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1957) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 755
CARMELLA J (1961) The 35 ton 44 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Carmella J was destroyed by a storm November 6, 1961 off of Ugak Bay.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 25 N 152 35 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 35 Gross 23 Net, Length 44.3, Breadth 14, Depth 8.5, Built 1948 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 110, SL WC2272, Owner Estul Prior, Registered Coos Bay OR, ON 256106
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) Pg 111, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 929
CARMEN B (1968) The oil screw Carmen B was consumed by fire October 1, 1968 at False Pass.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 54 51 15 N 163 24 30 W Chart 16011
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAROL IRENE (1969) The oil screw Carol Irene stranded and was lost May 23, 1969 at Cordova.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 33 N 145 45 W Chart 16700
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAROL JEAN (1980) The 107 foot fishing vessel Carol Jean burned and sank May 29, 1980 four miles off of Granite Cape while tendering herring. Her crew of three was picked up by the vessel Stardust and taken to Seward.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 36 45 N 149 46 W Chart 16680
Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAROLINE (1944) The 61 ton 66 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Caroline stranded and was lost at Wolcott Reef, Kodiak Island August 18, 1944. The big San Juan tender was en route from Larsen Bay to Harvester Island.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 40 15 N 154 11 45 W Chart 16598
Additional Information: Tonnage 61 Gross 41 Net, Length 66.6, Breadth 16.6, Depth 7.9, Built 1928 at Tacoma WA, Horsepower 120, SL WLFU, Owner San Juan Fishing and Packing Company, Registered Cordova, ON 227286
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1945) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 774, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1944) Pg 104, 3. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAROLINE (1996) The 32 foot salmon gillnetter Caroline burned and sank July 22, 1996 in Kvichak Bay, Bristol Bay. All three crewmembers made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 26 N 157 54 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: ON 664009
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
CAROLYN C (1973) The crab fishing vessel Carolyn C caught fire and was lost October 5, 1973 near the Pleiades Islands in Prince William Sound. Crewmembers abandoned ship and reported being attacked by sea lions and almost drowned before being rescued.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 14 N 148 00 40 W Chart 16700
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CAROLYN JEAN (1985) The 98 foot trawler Carolyn Jean drug anchor and sank in shallow water October 26, 1985 in Portage Bay. The vessel was seeking shelter from 65 to 75 knot winds and 20 foot seas in the Shelikof Strait. The crew of four was rescued by U S Coast Guard Helicopter when the vessel was threatening to roll over.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 34 05 N 156 02 15 W Chart 16013
Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CASTLE CAPE (1994) The 35 foot salmon seiner Castle Cape collided with the fishing vessel Capelin in the fog, August 11, 1994 off of Elrington Island. The Castle Cape sank and her four crewmembers were rescued by the U S Coast Guard.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 N 148 03 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: ON 525876
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
CATHERINE (1917) The steamer Catherine was reported lost at Ugashik in 1917.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 30 45 N 157 23 45 W Chart 16011
Comment: See Saint Katherine, may be same wreck.
Source: The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 258
CATHERINE J (1966) The 24 ton 40 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Catherine J foundered July 17, 1966 off of Seal Cape Light.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 21 45 N 161 18 30 W Chart 16551
Comment: There are several Seal Capes but the above is the most likely with the one on Unimak Island near Scotch Cap coming in a close second. WG
Additional Information: Tonnage 24 Gross 16 Net, Length 40.2, Breadth 12.6, Depth 7.8, Built 1947 at Tacoma WA, Horsepower 165, SL WC7143, 1965 Owner P E Harris Company, Registered Seattle, ON 252139
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 131, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1165
CATHY JOY (1965) The 12 ton 29 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Cathy Joy was consumed by fire August 15, 1965 at Naknek.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 43 40 N 157 00 45 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross 9 Net, Length 29.7, Breadth 11, Depth 4.9, Built 1961 at Bainbridge WA, Horsepower 165, SL WR8731, Owner Arctic Maid Fisheries, Registered Seattle, ON 285586
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 132, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1165
CEDAR (1965) The 32 ton 43 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Cedar was lost May 18, 1965 off of Kodiak.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 32 Gross 21 Net, Length 43.5, Breadth 14, Depth 8.5, Built 1950 at Port Orchard WA, Horsepower 165, SL WC7431, Owner McDonald & McLaughlin, Registered Port Angeles WA, ON 259495
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 133, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1165
CELTIC (1968) The 65 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Celtic stranded and was lost November 24, 1968 at the southeast end of Spruce Island in Ouzinkie Narrows.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 55 30 N 152 29 50 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 57 Gross 39 Net, Length 65.5, Breadth 17.1, Depth 8.2, Built 1928 Tacoma WA, 175 HP, SL WA3507, ON 227189
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1974) Pg 1254, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 134
CHABRO (1987) The 56 foot fishing vessel Chabro sank May 5, 1987 approximately 80 miles southeast of Seward. Everett Collins (59) of Soldotna was lost. Four others were rescued by the fishing vessel Kodiak.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 06 30 N 149 26 30 W Chart 16680
Comment: F/V Kahiltna II sank same day same area also fishing halibut. WG
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CHALLENGER (1963) The 13 ton 35 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Challenger foundered December 31, 1963 off of Seldovia.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 26 15 N 151 42 30 W Chart 16640
Additional Information: Tonnage 13 Gross 12 Net, Length 34.9, Breadth 10.2, Depth 5.3, Built 1940 at Seattle WA, Former Name Marilyn, Horsepower 110, SL WC2919, Owner Robert Hunter, Registered Juneau, ON 239868
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 135, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1165
CHANNEL SURFER (2000) The 32 foot aluminum gillnet salmon fishing vessel Channel Surfer burned from an engine room fire and sank July 22, 2000 near Karluk in the Shelikof Strait.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 34 10 N 154 27 30 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: ON 1032817
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
CHAPEASUE (1984) The 69 foot fish tender ChapeaSue sank August 20, 1984 near Hinchinbrook Entrance in the Gulf of Alaska.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 20 N 146 50 W Chart 16700
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CHARLES E MOODY (1920) The 2003 ton wood ship Charles E Moody caught fire late in the evening June 28, 1920 at Bristol Bay, Naknek Roadstead. She had sailed from Seattle April 20th with a cannery crew of 136 fishermen and a mate, a cargo of cannery supplies, fishing boats and 200 tons of coal. She had arrived at Naknek the first week of June and all passengers debarked. The mate was alone on board the night of June 28 and had put out the anchor light around 9:00 p.m. Hours later he was hailed by a fisherman as the vessel was ablaze forward. He was taken off the Charles E Moody leaving his possessions behind. The Alaska Packers tug Kayjak and steamer Shelikof responded and pumped hoses with full force for 40 minutes but were driven off by the flames. The vessel was totally destroyed by the blaze.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 43 40 N 157 00 45 W Chart 16011
Additional Information: Tonnage 2003 Gross 1734 Net, Length 233.9, Breadth 43.4, Depth 18.2, Built 1882 at Bath Me. by Goss&Sawyer, Registration Port Townsend and Seattle, ON 126070, Master Mark Haskell of Seattle, Owner Northwestern Fisheries of Seattle, Vessel Value $320,000, Vessel Insurance $80,000, Cargo Value $4,000, Cargo Insurance $3,400
Sources: U S Coast Guard Wreck Reports filed at Seattle, San Francisco and Ketchikan
CHARLOTTE ANN (1959) The 15 ton 40 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Charlotte Ann was consumed by fire April 12, 1959 at Belkofski Bay.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 05 N 162 09 W Chart 16011
Additional Information: Tonnage 15 Gross 10 Net, Length 40.2, Breadth 10.7, Depth 4.2, Built 1943 at Seattle WA, Former Name J-952 (U S A), Horsepower 165, SL WF3924, Owner Edwin M Bendixen, Registered Juneau, ON 262762
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1959) Pg 109, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1960) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 823
CHARLOTTE B (1942) The 27 ton 48 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Charlotte B struck a reef and foundered October 9, 1942 in Geese Island Channel.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 45 N 153 53 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 27 Gross 15 Net, Length 48, Breadth 13.1, Depth 5.9, Built 1919 at Dockton WA, Horsepower 65 (Brake), Crew 3, Owner Robert Von Scheele, Registered Cordova, ON 218506
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1943) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 757, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1942) Pg 256
CHARLOTTE B (1979) The 80 foot crab vessel Charlotte B sank in 27 feet of water in the Kodiak Small Boat Harbor stall #148 on May 20, 1979 taking some of the dock with her. The vessel was raised June 13, 1979, taken offshore and scuttled.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Sources: 1.Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Wreck List (2011)
CHASE (1930) The 39 foot wood gas screw Chase left Kodiak on September 7, 1930 bound for Seward with a load of three tons of canned clams and coal. Neither the Chase nor her owner, captain and sole occupant, Charles Enswiler, were ever seen again. It was several weeks before the loss was realized. A search of the shoreline and seas between Kodiak and Seward was unsuccessful in locating any sign of the tragedy. It is supposed that the vessel foundered.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 58 N 152 15 W Chart 16606
Comment: I have mapped this wreck in the Barren Islands for lack of a better place. The waters in that area are some of the most treacherous between Kodiak and Seward for a vessel that size.
Additional Information: Length 38.8, Tonnage 11 Gross 7 Net, Built 1921 at Seldovia, Registered at Seward, ON 224601, Vessel Value $2,000, Cargo Value $500, Insurance none
Source: U S Coast Guard Casualty Report filed at Seward by business associate and part owner of lost cargo Mrs Josie Sandavik on October 29, 1931.
CHEECHAKO (1998) The 36 foot longline halibut fishing vessel Cheechako was consumed by fire and sank June 4, 1998 approximately 14 nautical miles southwest of Ninilchik.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 03 N 151 40 W Chart 16640
Additional Information: ON 583026
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
CHIGNIK #1 (1908) The 70 ton wooden scow Chignik No.1 of Port Townsend Washington foundered and was lost at Cape Cleare off the south end of Montague Island on April 28, 1908. She had been built at Port Blakely, Washington earlier that year.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 45 N 148 54 W Chart 16701
Additional Information: Tonnage 70, Built 1908, ON 163471
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1909) Pg 392, 2. Alaska file of the U S Revenue Cutter Service Microcopy 641 1867-1914 (1966)
CHIGNIK 2 (1966) The 10 ton 29 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Chignik 2 foundered July 31, 1966 at Warner Bay.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 08 N 158 24 W Chart 16561
Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 7 Net, Length 29.8, Breadth 11.9, Depth 4.3, Built 1945 at Seldovia, Horsepower 56, Owner Harry Aleck, Registered Juneau, ON 269512
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 142, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1165
CHIGNIK 6 (1957) The 8 ton 31 foot wooden gas screw Chignik 6 burned August 7, 1957 at Chignik Lagoon.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 20 N 158 29 W Chart 16011
Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 5 Net, Length 31.2, Breadth 9.5, Depth 4, Built 1941 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 90, Owner Chignik Fisheries Company, Registered Juneau, ON 240569
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1959) Pg 112, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 902
CHIGNIK 7 (1962) The 8 ton 31 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Chignik 7 stranded and was lost March 27, 1962 near Ivanof Bay.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 50 N 159 29 W Chart 16011
Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 5 Net, Length 31.3, Breadth 9.5, Depth 4, Built 1941 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 90, Owner Chignik Fisheries Company, Registered Juneau, ON 240570
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) Pg 125, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 929
CHIGNIK PRIDE (1961) The 7 ton 27 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Chignik Pride was consumed by fire October 3, 1961 at Chignik Lagoon.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 20 N 158 29 W Chart 16011
Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross 6 Net, Length 27.8, Breadth 11, Depth 3.3, Built 1947 at LaConner WA, Horsepower 96, SL WC8545, Owner Chignik Fisheries Company, Registered Ketchikan, ON 252366
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) Pg 125, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 929
CHILKOOT (1949) The 41 ton 60 foot wooden oil screw tug and fishing vessel Chilkoot was consumed by fire at Rocky Point, Montague Island June 6, 1949. The four man crew was rescued by another tug, the New Sunrise.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 21 30 N 147 03 W Chart 16700
Comment: Probably Rocky Bay. WG
Additional Information: Tonnage 41 Gross 28 Net, Length 60.6, Breadth 15.8, Depth 5.8, Built 1911 at Astoria OR, Horsepower180, SL WA3640, Owner R A Bushra, Registered Ketchikan, ON 208481
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1955) Pg 105, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 742, 3. Seattle Daily Times (June 6, 1949) “Crew Saved When Alaska Tug Burns” Pg 1
CHIRIKOF (1968) The oil screw crab fishing vessel Chirikof foundered February 29, 1968 off of Kodiak Island. All three crewmembers escaped to a skiff. They did not have time to grab oars and drifted until spotted the following day by the Alaska Steamship Company freighter Chena. The three men were too hypothermic to climb the Jacob’s ladder of the Chena so the U S Coast Guard was called and the cutter Confidence responded to rescue the men.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Sources: 1. Seattle Daily Times (March 9, 1968) “Maritime News” Pg 11, 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CHRISTINE (1964) The 10 ton 34 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Christine was destroyed by a tidal wave March 27, 1964 at Valdez.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 61 07 N 146 16 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 7 Net, Length 34, Breadth 11.2, Depth 4.2, Built 1924 at Cordova, Horsepower 60, SL WC7563, Owner Leonard Sandstrom, Registered Seattle WA, ON 239838
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 138, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1002
CHRISTOPHER A (1998) The 30 foot gillnet salmon fishing vessel Christopher A stranded in rough weather and was lost May 18, 1998 at the mouth of the Copper River. Both crewmembers made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 25 N 145 W Chart 16013
Comment: The 33 foot salmon gillnetter Bonnie Gale was also lost in the same storm. WG
Additional Information: ON AK9688N
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
CIMBRIA (1984) The 50 foot crab fishing vessel Cimbria listed and sank November 30, 1984 off of Cape Trinity near Egg Island in Alitak Bay. The three crewmen aboard escaped in a life raft and were picked up by a skiff from Akhiok.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 53 35 N 154 13 W Chart 16590
Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CINDY (1964) The 13 ton 31 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Cindy was reported lost in the Good Friday earthquake of March 27, 1964 at Kodiak.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 13 Gross 9 Net, Length 31.8, Breadth 12, Depth 3.9, Built 1958 at Kodiak, Horsepower 130, SL WP3110, Owner Robert C King, Registered Juneau, ON 279713
Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 139
CINDY (1964) The 14 ton 43 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Cindy stranded and was lost April 2, 1964 at Kodiak.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 14 Gross 9 Net, Length 43.6, Breadth 10.5, Depth 5, Built 1944 at Algonac MI, Former Name LCVP-C-44677 (U S N), Horsepower 225, SL WH9332, Owner William E Wood, Registered Juneau, ON 273741
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 139, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1002
CINDY (1964) A vessel named Cindy owned by Bill Gregorioff was reported lost at Kodiak in the Good Friday earthquake of March 27, 1964.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Source: Unofficial Wreck List
CINDY W (1965) The 45 foot steel oil screw fishing vessel Cindy W was grounded and lost on Left Cape, Kodiak Island when a crewman fell asleep at the wheel. Attempts were made by sister vessel Bee W to pull the vessel from the beach. The bottom of the Cindy W was eventually damaged beyond repair. The hull was visible on Left Cape at the entrance to Kiliuda Bay for many decades.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 15 30 N 152 57 W Chart 16580
Comment: I have yet to find an official documentation of this loss.
Additional Information: Tonnage 51 Gross 35 Net, Length 45.3, Breadth 16, Depth 9.8, Built 1961 Bellingham WA, Owner Wayne A. Murphy, H.P. 200, Call Sign WS3275, ON 286109
Source: 1. Alaska Fishermen RIP conversation on Facebook September 26, 2016 (WG), 2. Merchant Vessels of the U.S. (1979) Pg 336
CITY OF SEATTLE (1979) The 84 foot crab fishing vessel City of Seattle split a seam and foundered April 7, 1979 in the Gulf of Alaska 80 miles south of Yakutat. All persons on board were picked up by the U S Coast Guard.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 33 N 139 44 W Chart 16016
Sources: 1.Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Wreck List (2011)
CITY OF SEATTLE (1981) The 84 foot crab fishing vessel City of Seattle caught fire and sank September 14, 1981 in the Shelikof Strait five miles south of Cape Uganik. The six crewmen aboard were rescued by the U S Coast Guard Cutter Confidence.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 58 N 153 30 W Chart 16580
Comment: This vessel was salvaged and refurbished. WG
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CLARA (1936) Escaping gas caused an explosion aboard the wooden gas screw Clara Wednesday December 16, 1936 at winter dry dock on the beach in Monti Bay at Yakutat. Owner/operator Walter Thayer valued the Clara at $500 with no insurance in the wreck report he filed at Yakutat January 22, 1937.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 34 N 139 50 W Chart 16761
Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross 10 Net, Built 1918, Registered Juneau, ON 216248
Sources: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty Collection District 31 Yakutat January 22, 1937
CLARA J (1971) The oil screw Clara J was consumed by fire September 25, 1971 at Hoodoo Bay in Prince William Sound.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 03 30 N 148 00 30 W Chart 16700
Comment: Hoodoo Island was the old name for Evans Island. WG
Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Dictionary of Alaska Place Names (1971) “Evans Island” Pg 322
CLARINDA (1947) The 76 ton 89 foot wooden oil screw Clarinda was consumed by fire January 12, 1947 at Sand Point.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 20 15 N 160 30 W Chart 16553
Additional Information: Tonnage 76 Gross 52 Net, Length 89.6, Breadth17.1, Depth 7, Built 1913 at Port Clinton OH, Service freight, Horsepower 330, Crew 6, SL WCOW, Owner Jesse H Petrich, Registered Seattle WA, ON 211512
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1948) Pg 96, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 909
CLAUDIA C (2007) The 33 foot fishing vessel Claudia C flooded and sank six miles off of Ninilchik in Cook Inlet July 2, 2007. The fishing vessel Holly Ann attempted to assist the Claudia C in pumping out the sinking vessel but the three aboard were forced to abandon ship to the Holly Ann as the Claudia C went down.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 03 N 151 40 W Chart 16640
Additional Information: Tonnage 18 Gross 15 Net, Length 32.8, ON 595749
Source: USCG MISLE Case # 359604
CLEVEDON (1942) The 7,314 ton Army transport passenger steamer Clevedon caught fire and was destroyed by the explosions of her cargo January 12, 1942 off of Yakutat. The vessel was hauling a cargo of ammunition when a fire broke out in her engine room. The Steamship Taku towed the burning Clevedon out of Yakutat Harbor across the bay and beached her. High tide cast the blazing vessel free and she drifted for five hours until the explosions of her cargo finally sank her. There was no loss of life.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 40 N 140 W Chart 16016
Sources: 1. Seattle Daily Times (January 20, 1942) “Blast and Fire Sank Army Transport, Captain Reports” Pg 7, 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CLOVERLEAF (1980) The 60 foot wooden trawler Cloverleaf overturned and sank April 2, 1980 eight miles off of Sutwik Island near the Alaska Peninsula. The vessel had been dragging for bait for the crab fleet with three crewmen aboard. Her last transmission was a distress call received by the U S Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak. The Cloverleaf had taken a heavy roll to starboard and not recovered. The crew was abandoning ship in foul weather. Winds were reported at 65 mph and seas to 20 feet. Coast Guard aircraft and nearby vessels responded to the area but were not able to locate the Cloverleaf or her crew. The following day a crewman clinging to a log was spotted by one of two U S Coast Guard C-130 aircraft searching the area. It turned out to be Rick Laws, the captain of the vessel. The fishing vessels Bessie M and Rondys were able to retrieve Laws. He was transported to King Cove where he was picked up by a U S Coast Guard helicopter and transported to Kodiak for treatment of hypothermia. The other two crewmembers of the Cloverleaf, Kodiak fishermen Wink Cissell and Kim Hanlin, were lost.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 34 N 157 12 W Chart 16011
Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. The Seattle Times (April 4, 1980) “Meanwhile, Coast Guard searchers…” Pg E-3, 4. U S Coast Guard History Website (1980) “27 Hours in the Cold Alaska Sea” by Greg King USCG Flight Engineer
COHO (1990) The 29 foot steel longline halibut fishing vessel Coho took water over the stern while heavily loaded with fish, capsized and sank June 7, 1990 in Cook Inlet off of Dangerous Cape.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 24 N 151 54 20 W
Additional Information: ON 271319
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
COHOE (1983) The halibut schooner Cohoe flooded and sank in heavy weather April 1, 1983 approximately 20 miles northwest of Kayak Island.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 56 N 144 23 W Chart 16013
Comment: A sailboat named Koho is reported lost April 3, 1983 two miles south of Kayak Island. Both records originate in newspaper or magazine articles. WG
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
COLDBROOK (1942) The 5,104 ton 390 foot diesel powered steel steam ship Coldbrook was sunk by enemy action June 16, 1942 about 75 miles south of Cordova near Middleton Island. The Coldbrook was operating as a cargo steamship and was loaded with military supplies. Some reports mention the vessel was grounded on Middleton Island and salvage efforts undertaken. They were unsuccessful and the Coldbrook was abandoned.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 26 N 146 20 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: Tonnage 5,104 Gross 3,127 Net, Length 390, Breadth 54.2, Depth 27.8, Built 1920 at Hog Island PA, Service freight, Crew 42, SL KOQK, Horsepower 2,500, Owner United States Maritime Commission, Registered Philadelphia PA, ON 219293
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1943) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 754, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1942) Pg 20, 3. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
COLLETTE (1974) The 16 ton 43 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Collette foundered February 3, 1974 south of Spruce Cape on Kodiak Island.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 49 15 N 152 20 W Chart 16594
Additional Information: Tonnage 16 Gross 13 Net, Length 43.8, Breadth 11.2, Depth 4.2, Built 1929 at Wrangell, ON 229216
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 153, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1978) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 2117
COLUMBIA (1909) The American wood square rigged ship Columbia stranded near Seal Cape Unimak Island at 12:30 a.m. April 30, 1909. The 1,327 ton 206 foot vessel left San Francisco April 8 bound for Bristol Bay with 170 passengers, 24 crewmen and a load of $60,000 worth of cannery supplies. J H Cameron, Master of the Columbia reported a heavy swell, no wind (she was under sail), and a snow storm caused the vessel to drift ashore in the dark. Two anchors were set out but didn’t help. The $18,000 vessel and her cargo were lost, but all those aboard were able to get to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 54 23 30 N 164 38 30 W Chart 16520
Additional Information: Length 205.9, Breadth 40, Depth 24, Tonnage 1,327, Built 1871 Bath Maine, Registered San Francisco, Owner Henry Nelson of San Francisco
Source: Wreck Report filed by Cameron June 7, 1909
COLUMBIA (1918) The 19 ton 41 foot gas screw fishing vessel Columbia foundered September 14, 1918 in Saint Matthews Bay. The 5 persons aboard made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 44 N 146 20 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: Tonnage 19 Gross 13 Net, Length 41, Breadth 12.6, Depth 5, IHP 25, Built 1910 at Port Orchard WA, Registered Ketchikan, ON 207566
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1921) “Vessels Reported Lost” pg 454, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1918) Pg 209
COLUMBIA (1979) The 105 foot vessel Columbia sank at Unalaska December 18, 1979. Crewmember James Horsefield died in the disaster.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 53 52 30 N 166 32 W Chart 16011
Source: Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak)
COLUMBIA (1997) The 75 foot fish tender Columbia was destroyed by a fire in the engine room May 29, 1997 off of the Barren Islands. The one person aboard made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 57 N 152 15 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: ON 223578
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
COMBINE (2003) The 41 foot longline cod fishing vessel Combine struck a pinnacle and was lost January 24, 2003 off of Popof Island approximately five miles east of Kodiak. The master of the vessel issued a May-Day at 12:17 a.m. and the U S Coast Guard issued an urgent request for assistance. A U S Coast Guard Helicopter and the fishing vessels Highliner and Currency responded. All three crewmembers from the Combine were taken aboard the fishing vessel Highliner in good condition.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 46 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16595
Additional Information: ON 944849
Source: U S C G News Release (January 24, 2003) “Three rescued from grounded fishing boat, CG investigating accident”
COMET (1959) The 41 ton 56 foot wooden oil screw Comet stranded and was lost August 31, 1959 near Kodiak.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 41 Gross 33 Net, Length 56, Breadth 15.4, Depth 6.7, Built 1917 at Tacoma WA, Service freight, Horsepower 75, SL WA3823, Owner Libby McNeill & Libby, Registered Seattle, ON 215116
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1959) Pg 122, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1960) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 823
COMMANDER (1975) The gas screw Commander stranded and was lost September 1, 1975 at Chignik Lagoon.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 20 N 158 29 W Chart 16011
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
COMMANDER (1980) The 75 foot wooden trawler Commander disappeared with all hands November 21, 1980 on the way from Seattle to Kodiak with four persons on board. The vessel was last seen 30 miles off of Cape Spencer heading into 30-35 foot swells and 80 knot winds. Wreckage was spotted on the beach 27 miles south of Yakutat. Lost were four family members including Philip Edwards and his son Philip Jr., his brother John Edwards and his nephew Sam Bissett, all from Seattle.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 33 N 139 44 W Chart 16016
Additional Information: Tonnage 114 Gross 71 Net, Length 74.5, Breadth 21.3, Depth 10, Built 1944 at Tacoma WA, Horsepower 240, SL WA3830, ON 246261
Sources: 1. The Seattle Times (November 23, 1980) “Search to resume for Seattle boat lost in Alaska” Pg D 7, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1976) Pg 296
COMPEER (1912) The 347 ton 140 foot three-masted schooner Compeer wrecked at Cape Chichagof near Egegik in Bristol Bay on July 17, 1912. There were 30 persons aboard at the time of the disaster. All made it to safety. Built at Fairhaven, California in 1877, the Compeer was valued at $25,000 with cargo.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 20 N 157 32 W Chart 16323
Additional Information: Tonnage 347 Gross 308 Net, Length 140.5, Breadth 32.5, Depth 11.2, Crew 7, Registered San Francisco CA, ON 125585, SL JSHD
Sources: 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 211, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1912) Pg 21, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1913) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 422
CONQUEST (1994) The 58 foot fishing vessel Conquest was consumed by fire and sank near the Sand Point Boat Harbor December 9, 1994.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 20 15 N 160 30 W Chart 16553
Additional Information: Tonnage 75 Gross 60 Net, Length 58, ON 972079
Source: USCG MISLE Case # 880785
CONSTANCE (1919) The 78 ton gas screw fishing vessel Constance stranded and was lost twenty five miles east of Cape Suckling Saturday August 23, 1919 at 2:40 a.m. The crew of fifteen made it to the beach safely and was picked up by the schooner Northland. The burden of 26,000 pounds of halibut and easterly tide currents running into shore helped cause the casualty. The Constance was valued at the time of the wreck at $16,000 and her cargo of fish $4,000 both total losses. The vessel was insured for only $10,000 and there was no cargo insurance.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 59 30 N 143 30 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: Tonnage 78 Gross 53 Net, Age 6 years, Registered Seattle, ON 211877, Owner Hilde Averson & Averson of Seattle, Master M Hilde, Last Port Ketchikan August 16, 1919 for sea fisheries
Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed October 11, 1919 by Hilde at Ketchikan
CONTENTMENT (2002) The 35 foot cod and crab fishing vessel Contentment struck a rock and sank at 4 a.m. February 18, 2002 approximately 40 miles south of King Cove. Both crew members were rescued by the fishing vessel Coastal Pilot and taken to Dutch Harbor.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 03 N 162 19 W Chart 16520
Comment: The fishing vessel Tradewind sank only a few miles away hours before. WG
Additional Information: ON AK7574P
Source: U S C G News Release (February 18, 2002) “Five fishermen rescued after two vessels sink”
CONTROLLER BAY (1999) The 78 foot steel fishing vessel Controller Bay grounded and was lost May 8, 1999 in the vicinity of Cave Point, Cape Mordvinof, Unimak Island. The vessel had been pot fishing for Pacific Cod. The master fell asleep at the wheel with the autopilot on, causing the disaster. High winds and heavy seas broke up the Controller Bay on the rocks. All four crewmembers abandoned ship in survival suits to a life raft and were rescued by the fishing vessel Shaman.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 54 47 10 N 164 37 W Chart 16011
Additional Information: Length 77.9, ON 942350, Call Sign WAC8332
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013), 3. USCG MISLE Case # 907760
COOK INLET (1945) The 30 ton 48 foot wooden oil screw Cook Inlet foundered January 31, 1945 near Afognak Village in Afognak Bay.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 00 30 N 152 46 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 30 Gross 24 Net, Length 47.8, Breadth 13.4, Depth 5.6, Built 1912 at Tacoma WA, Former Names Hidden Inlet and Pysht, Service misc., Crew 4, Horsepower 60, Owner O L Grimes, Registered Juneau, ON 209705
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1946) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 804, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1945) Pg 145
COPPER (1950) The 7 ton 32 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Copper burned at the dock in Seldovia on November 17, 1950.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 26 15 N 151 42 30 W Chart 16640
Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross 6 Net, Length 31.9, Breadth 9.4, Depth 3.9, Built 1917 at Cordova, Horsepower 12, Owner Elizabeth Colberg, Registered Juneau, ON 228427
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1950) Pg 114, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1951) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 937
CORA B (1978) The charter boat Cora B struck a rock flooded and was towed to Bass Harbor on Naked Island November 7, 1978. There she was stripped and burned. The vessel had been used at times by the U S Bureau of Mines and the U S Forest Service.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 37 30 N 147 24 30 W Chart 16705
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CORAL (1997) The 43 foot longline fishing vessel Coral grounded and sank March 23, 1997 in Resurrection Bay. Both crewmembers made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 48 N 149 30 W Chart 16680
Additional Information: ON 991096
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
CORAL MASTER (1976) The 78 foot vessel Coral Master sank in October of 1976.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska Unknown
Source: Unofficial Wreck List
CORDOVA (1966) The 55 ton 79 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Cordova burned June 6, 1966 in the Copper River Flats near Cordova.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 25 N 145 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: Tonnage 55 Gross 37 Net, Length 79.2, Breadth 18.3, Depth 4.2, Built 1935 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 160, SL WA3898, Owner New England Fish, Registered Seattle, ON 233860
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 158, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1165
CORDOVA (1995) The 82 foot wooden crab fishing vessel Cordova flooded and sank May 5, 1995 approximately 85 miles north of Cold Bay in the Bering Sea. The vessel was on her way to the herring opening in Togiak when she began taking on water from the bow. After multiple attempts to dewater the Cordova, all four crewmembers abandoned ship in survival suits to a life raft and were rescued by the fishing vessel Lady Kodiak. During the process of abandoning ship it was observed that about six feet of anchor chain was out. It was speculated that the anchor had slipped its dogs allowing it to punch through the bow and flood the vessel.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 12 N 162 42 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: Length 82.3, ON 251242, Call Sign WB7420, Built 1945 at Seattle WA, Former Names Kernel Korn and BSP 3113 USA
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Alaska), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. USCG MISLE Case # 71123, 4. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) Pgs 756 & 1925
CORDOVA SALVOR (1957) The 180 ton 100 foot steel oil screw Cordova Salvor stranded and was lost November 4, 1957 at Cape Sarichef.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 54 35 50 N 164 55 30 W Chart 16011
Additional Information: Tonnage 180 Gross 160 Net, Length 99.9, Breadth 31.9, Depth 5, Built 1942 at Decatur AL, Former Name LCT-5-353 (U S N), Service freight, Horsepower 495, SL WD3974, Owner J A Jones Construction Company, Registered Juneau, ON 261741
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1957) Pg 120, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1958) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 777
COREA (1890) The 133 foot wooden bark Corea stranded at three in the morning Wednesday April 23, 1890 in thick weather, and was subsequently lost. H H Wheeler of San Francisco was Master of the vessel at the time. The following are excerpts from the wreck report:
“Heavy breeze, thick weather, strong tide, smooth sea, cloudy, and dark night.”
“Lookout forward and captain and 2nd mate on deck”
“Stranded…sand bar six miles south of Kalgin Island.”
“Got her off the reef and found the vessel was filling, so ran her 25 miles in sinking condition to East shore of Cook Inlet and beached her.”
There were 97 passengers and 19 crewmen aboard the Corea at the time of the casualty, all of whom were saved. The $45,000 cargo of 500 tons of cannery materials and merchandise was 80 percent lost. The Corea, valued at $15,000 is listed as a total loss.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 28 N 151 55 W Chart 16662
Additional Information: Tonnage 564.62, Length 133.4, Breadth 31.5, Depth 18, Built 1868 at Boston Mass, Registered San Francisco, ON 5448, Owner Arctic Fishing Co of San Francisco, Last Port San Francisco March 27, 1890, Vessel Insurance $12,500, Cargo Insurance $41,600
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed June 3, 1890 by F P Kendall Mgr/Owner Arctic Fishing
CORSAIR (1912) The 15.74 ton 54 foot wooden gas screw steamer Corsair stranded at Point Martin near Katalla at 2:00 a.m. October 29, 1912 carrying 14 tons of general ware cargo. She soon caught fire and was destroyed. Of the two aboard, only her master Peter Dahl of Katalla survived. Engineer Albert Ness was lost. Conditions at the time of the casualty were high seas and 70 to 80 mile an hour winds. The Corsair is reported to have been “engaged in lengthening off steam”.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 10 N 144 36 W Chart 16723
Additional Information: Tonnage 15.74, Length 53.8, Breadth 13.1, Depth 4.6, Built 1906 at Puyallup WA, Registered Cordova, ON 203585, Owner Charles Auer of Katalla, Vessel Value $5,000, Cargo Value $3,000, Vessel Insurance none, Cargo Insurance unknown
Sources: 1. U S Customs Wreck Report filed December 14, 1912 by C Auer managing owner, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1912) Pg 152
CORY B (2005) The 32 foot gillnet fishing vessel Cory B disappeared and was presumed to have foundered around August 28, 2005 near Coffee Point en route to Naknek in Bristol Bay. Debris from the vessel was spotted two to four miles north of Coffee Point after a storm washed through the area. Myron J Rapacz, skipper of the Cory B and the only one on board, was lost with the vessel. Rapacz was believed to have been fishing near Cinder River, was returning to Naknek and was caught in the storm.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 12 20 N 157 26 15 W Chart 16323
Additional Information: Vessel Identification AK9594B
Sources: 1. U S C G News Release (August 31, 2005) “Coast Guard, others search for skipper of fishing vessel Cory B”, 2. USCG MISLE Case # 254671
COUGAR (1946) The 43 ton 59 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Cougar foundered July 22, 1946 four miles off Rocky Point in the Shelikof Strait. She had departed Karluk with 20,000 fish bound for Kodiak. The vessel took on water in the engine room, split open and sank stern first. Three crewmembers and seven passengers were lost with the vessel including captain Irving Glen Palmer of Tacoma WA, deckhand Ray Lawson of Aberdeen WA, engineer A G Sturman of Bellingham WA, Lois Mueller of Denver CO and the Alaska Native Service, Lorraine Habch, Mrs. Amund Taylor (on her way to have a child), Lester Knagin and Willie Roft. Names of three others lost were not known including a waitress from Carmel, a man from Carmel and a commercial fisherman. Harold Aga of Larson Bay survived 11 hours clinging to a gas tank. He was rescued by a passing fishing vessel, taken to a nearby cannery and flown to the hospital in Kodiak.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 39 45 N 154 13 50 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 43 Gross 29 Net, Length 59.2, Breadth 15.1, Depth 7.0, Built 1917 at Tacoma WA, Crew 7, Horsepower 105, SL KDPM, Owner Pioneer Canneries, Registered Juneau, ON 214748
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1946) Pg 105, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1947) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 822, 3. The Seattle Times (July 24, 1946) “Alaska Sinking Takes 10 Lives” Pg 10
COURTNEY FORD (1902) The 146 foot three masted wood schooner (originally a brigantine) Courtney Ford stranded and was lost at 8:15 p.m. September 7, 1902 at Glen Island. The vessel had departed St Michael September 2nd and was bound for Port Townsend, Washington and San Francisco. The Courtney Ford was in ballast with no cargo and had eight crewmen and one “work away” on board. Three crew were lost; 1st mate C N Sanderson (47) from Sweden, Walter Olson (22) from Denmark and Seaman C Carlson (37) from Denmark. The following statements were taken from the wreck report filed by her captain, M E Burgeson, on October 28, 1902:
“Dark cloudy night; strong wind and squally breeze from west.” “Saw breakers ahead; went to wear ship; just then vessel struck.”
The wreck is reported to have been caused by “Iron about the compass”. Other reports mention that Amak Island was mistaken for Akun Island while the crew was dead reckoning in the fog because of the faulty compass.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 18 N 162 55 W Chart 16006
Comment: Glen Island is the southernmost of the Kudiakof Group near the SW end of the Alaska Peninsula NE of Unimak Island
Additional Information: Tonnage 401.11 Gross 381.06 Net, Length 146.3, Breadth 34.2, Depth 12.5, Built 1883 at Benicia California, Registered San Francisco, ON 126173, Owner Pacific Shipping Co of San Francisco, Vessel Value $19,000, Vessel Cargo 25 ton of ballast, Vessel Insurance none
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed at San Francisco
COWBOY (1981) The fishing vessel Cowboy was lost in rough weather August 20, 1981 in the Gulf of Alaska.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska Unknown
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CRAIG FOSS (1965) The 179 ton 88 foot steel oil screw tug Craig Foss foundered November 7, 1965 in Cook Inlet. All 10 crewmembers were rescued.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 05 N 152 30 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: Tonnage 179 Gross 120 Net, Length 88, Breadth 23.9, Depth 12.2, Built 1942 at New Orleans LA, Former Name Major Henry James Conner, Horsepower 600, SL WG7565, Owner Foss Launch & Tug, Registered Seattle, ON 270694
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 161, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1165
CRANE (1939) The 10 ton 34 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Crane stranded and was lost October 12, 1939 at Valdez. No one was aboard at the time of the casualty.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 61 07 N 146 16 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 6 Net, Length 34, Breadth 9.8, Depth 3.5, Built 1935 at Cordova, Horsepower 35, Owner Victor E Hackett, Registered Juneau, ON 234524
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1941) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 510, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1939) Pg 122
CRESSET (1952) The 36 ton 53 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Cresset foundered January 17, 1952 in a storm at Kodiak.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 36 Gross 29 Net, Length 53.6, Breadth 15.1, Depth 7.2, Built 1898 at Tacoma WA, Former Name Mary, Crew 8, Horsepower 165, Owner W A Ritter, Registered Seattle, ON 92895
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1952) Pg 122, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1953-1954) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 748
CREST (1964) The 13 ton 36 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Crest was destroyed by a tidal wave March 27, 1964 at Seward.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 06 30 N 149 26 30 W Chart 16680
Additional Information: Tonnage 13 Gross 9 Net, Length 36.7, Breadth 10.8, Depth 4.5, Built 1950 at Juneau, Horsepower 110, SL WE2649, Owner Aaren W Bauder, Registered Juneau, ON 259798
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 154, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1002
CROW (1978) The 117 foot old Navy landing craft Crow sank 9 miles off of Wide Bay November 20, 1978. The vessel was transporting construction materials to a cannery. The six crewmen aboard were rescued from a life raft by the U S Coast Guard.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 22 N 156 11 W Chart 16013
Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak)
CRUISER (1991) The 32 foot long line fishing vessel Cruiser burned and sank September 20, 1991 off of Marmot Island near Kodiak. The one person aboard was rescued.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 13 N 151 50 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: ON 931611
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CRUSADER (1943) The 101 ton 73 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Crusader foundered May 1, 1943 in the Shumagin Islands.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 10 N 160 W Chart 16011
Additional Information: Tonnage 101 Gross 68 Net, Length 73.4, Breadth 21.2, Depth 9.7, Built 1937 at Tacoma WA, Crew 10, Horsepower 240, SL WPTB, Owner Spiro Babich, Registered Tacoma WA, ON 236722
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1948) Pg 111, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 909, 3. Oregonian (May 7, 1943) “Astoria Craft Lost in North” Pg 13
CRY HAVOC (1997) The 32 foot salmon seiner Cry Havoc grounded and was lost August 24, 1997 at Ugashik. No one was on board at the time of the disaster.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 30 45 N 157 23 45 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: ON CG053241
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
CRYSTAL (1895) The 33 ton 49 foot wood schooner Crystal was lost Friday September 27, 1895 at 11:15 p.m. in Yakutat Bay. The 7 passengers and 4 crewmen made it to safety but the Crystal and her ten ton cargo of codfish was lost. The following is an accounting of the wreck by her master N Lawson of Tacoma and others:
“We, the undersigned, crew and passengers of the schooner Crystal, of Tacoma, 32.52 tons, N Lawson, Master, bound to Tacoma from Kodiak, affirm that on the afternoon of September 27th, 1895, we lay at anchor off Kantaag Island, Yakutat Bay. At about 6 p.m. a gale sprung up from the southeast, causing us to drag our anchors into deep water, and losing our port anchor, we were compelled to heave up starboard anchor, make sail, and stand up Yakutat Bay on the starboard tack. 11:15 p.m. the weather being very thick, we went ashore on the east shore of Yakutat Bay, about 16 miles north of Yakutat, not being able to see the land until the vessel struck. The lead was kep going constantly, but the depth of water varied from six fathoms to no bottom at twenty fathoms. The tide was half ebb and all hands were landed in the boats. At low tide the ship was nearly high and dry, and all effects of both the passengers and crew were saved.”
“The vessel was badly stove in and the wreck was sold to James W Johnson of Yakutat and T V Smith of Seattle. No insurance.”
“On October 5, 1895, the crew and passengers were transported to Yakutat by the schooner yacht Dauntless, of Everett, Geo E Montandon, master, to await transportation to Sitka. “
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 48 N 139 37 W Chart 16761
Additional Information: Length 48.6, Breadth 15.2, Depth 6.8, Tonnage 32.52, Built 1895 in Tacoma, Registered Tacoma, ON 127073, Master/Owner N Lawson of Tacoma, Last Port Kodiak August 25th, Bound for Tacoma, Vessel Value $2,500, Cargo Value $500, Insurance none
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed October 22, 1895
CURLEW (1984) The 48 foot wooden fishing vessel Curlew stranded and foundered September 30, 1984 near Herendeen Island in the Shumagin Islands. The Curlew was towing the Kelly Ann who had been experiencing engine trouble southeast of Atkin Island. Three of the four crewmen aboard the Curlew were lost including David Miller, Phil O’Donohue and Geoff William O’Donohue. Ray Miller, the fourth crewmen from the Curlew, managed to get aboard the Kelly Ann to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 04 N 159 25 W Chart 16540
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CURLEW (1990) The 33 foot wooden fish tender Curlew capsized and sank in rough weather October 1, 1990 off the Barren Islands. Both crewmembers were rescued.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 57 N 152 15 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: ON 290562, Built 1963
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CYCLONE (2012) The fishing vessel Cyclone sank six nautical miles east of Cape Chiniak March 2, 2012. All three crewmembers abandoned ship in survival suits and were rescued by Good Samaritan fishing vessel Glacier. The Glacier was in the area and responded to the U S Coast Guard Urgent Marine Information Broadcast. Weather was reported to include winds southwest 25 knots and seas 8-10 feet. The Cyclone flooded from the lazarette.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 37 N 152 10 W Chart 16580
Source: 17th Coast Guard District Enforcement Report (Dec 2011-Mar 2012)
CYGNET (1995) The 72 foot steel fishing vessel Cygnet flooded and sank November 17, 1995 off of Flat Island in Cook Inlet. The two persons aboard made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 19 45 N 151 59 45 W Chart 16640
Additional Information: ON 947991
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Alaska), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
CZARINA (1911) The 116 foot wood schooner Czarina stranded in a gale in the E side of Nagai Island and was lost at 10:00 p.m. February 15, 1911. The vessel had a crew of ten aboard all who survived the casualty. The Czarina, valued at $10,000 and her 300 ton cargo of salt and provisions worth $8,000 were lost. Captain William Wallstedt of Oakland California stated that he was seeking shelter from the weather.
“Attempted to steer behind point for shelter; struck on reef shown in chart as being on other side of the bight in which stranding occurred.” “Gale; sudden change of wind driving vessel on lee shore; chart faulty; night. Alternately clear and snow squalls.”
“Bottom went out of vessel but top held together; stuck in rocks of the reef; next day when weather moderated made the shore in dories.”
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 05 N 160 W Chart 16540
Additional Information: Length 116, Breadth 30.6, Depth 10.6, Tonnage 230 Gross 218 Net, Built 1891 Fairhaven California, Registration San Francisco, ON 126818, Owner Union Fish Co of San Francisco, Last Port San Francisco Jan 25, 1911, Destination Pirate Cove, Vessel Insurance $6500, Cargo Insurance $7000
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed at San Francisco March 22, 1911
My grandfather sailed on this ship in 1901-1902 when he was about 12. His father was a lawyer for the Alaska Packing Co. and thought a stretch of real work would be good for him. He never lost his love for these old sailing vessels and recreated them in beautifully crafted models. I have one which is in need of restoration of the rigging which time has not been kind to. I also have a diary which he kept while aboard the Czarina.
What treasures you have. I would love to read the dairy. I think your Grandfather may have been aboard when the Czarina ran up on the rocks in the Pribilof Islands January 18, 1902 and did a great deal of damage to her hull. That is not a place where many survive stranding that time of year. I was a crabber in the Bering Sea during the 1970’s and 1980’s and know how bone chilling the weather there is. What size is the model?