EAGLE (1930) The single masted wooden gas boat Eagle was destroyed September 23, 1930 while laid up on the grid-iron in Odiak Slough near Cordova. The vessel was destroyed by the wind, heavy seas and extreme high tides during a southeasterly storm. No one was aboard the Eagle at the time; she had been on the grid since July. The Eagle was valued at $3,000 at the time of the loss and had insurance for only $1,500.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 32 30 N 145 46 W Chart 16709
Additional Information: Tonnage 14 Gross 10 Net, Age 29 years, Registered Cordova and Seattle, ON 156857, Owner Northern Products Corp of Seattle
Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty November 28, 1930 at Cordova
EAGLE (1955) The 30 ton 50 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Eagle stranded and was lost May 9, 1955 at Yakutat.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 33 N 139 44 W Chart 16016
Additional Information: Tonnage 30 Gross 20 Net, Length 50.3, Breadth 14.2, Depth 6.4, Built 1914 at Tacoma WA, Horsepower 90, SL WC2075, Owner Resurrection Bay Company, Registered Juneau, ON 212037
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1955) Pg 146, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 743
EAGLE (1974) The 37 foot oil screw Eagle burned and sank August 8, 1974 approximately 18 miles southeast of Yakutat.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 33 N 139 44 W Chart 16016
Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Unofficial Wreck List
EAGLE (1983) The 130 foot tug Eagle capsized in heavy seas and was lost October 27, 1983 in the Gulf of Alaska 70 miles southeast of Yakutat. Robert Ray of Puyallup, Washington was the only survivor of the nine man crew. He was plucked from the 35 foot seas by a U S Coast Guard Helicopter and treated for mid stage hypothermia. Lost were eight Washington men including skipper Jim Jerome of Seattle, first mate Karl Thorby of Arlington, second mate Steven Neff of Bothell, oiler Kenneth Blanchard of Seattle, deckhand Albert Spromberg of Seattle, cook Joe Terricone of Seattle, William Lambert of Okanogan and John Mitchell of Seattle.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 33 N 139 44 W Chart 16016
Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. The Morning Union (October 29, 1983) “One crew member rescued as tug sinks” Pg 24, 3. The Seattle Times (October 28, 1983) “Search resumes for eight from capsized tug” Pg B-1
EAGLE (1994) The 72 foot trawler Eagle flooded and sank February 9, 1994 approximately 17 miles southeast of Cape Chiniak. The vessel was trawling for Pollack when the disaster occurred. All four crewmembers were rescued; three by U S Coast Guard Helicopter and one by the fishing vessel Cap’N Art.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 37 N 152 10 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: ON 508600
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Alaska), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. USCG MISLE Case # 850585
EASTERN SEA (1982) The 82 foot fishing vessel Eastern Sea developed a port list and foundered December 12, 1982 approximately 13 miles off of Cape Chiniak near Kodiak. The four crewmen aboard were picked up by the fishing vessel Mar Del Norte. The Eastern Sea had grounded earlier that year at the end of herring season near Togiak when a line tangled in her wheel.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 37 N 152 10 W Chart 16580
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
EASY RIDER (1991) The 31 foot shrimp fishing vessel Easy Rider burned to the waterline and sank November 21, 1991 off of Rugged Island in Strawberry Channel.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 24 N 146 03 W
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
ECHO (2006) The 64 foot fishing vessel Echo flooded and sank August 3, 2006 outside of Uyak Bay on Kodiak Island. The vessel was transiting Shelikof Strait in heavy weather when water coming over the bow began flooding her through an open hatch cover. All three crewmembers were able to escape to a skiff.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 48 N 154 04 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: ON 629675
Sources: 1. U S Coast Guard Enforcement Report (August 3, 2006), 2. USCG MISLE Case # 305689
ECLIPSE (1807) The 343 ton American ship Eclipse ran into a reef and sank in three fathoms of water near Sanak Island September 10, 1807 with 28 crewmembers, a Russian America Company steward and several passengers on board. The vessel was on her maiden voyage out of Boston on charter with the Russian American Company and captained by Joseph O’Cain. 21 crewmembers and the Russian America Company steward perished in the disaster. Much of the cargo aboard, which came from China and Kamchatka, was salvaged along with bits and pieces of the ship. Several of the crewmembers fashioned a small sloop out of the longboat salvaged from the Eclipse and sailed to Kodiak for help. They made it to Kodiak but wrecked on their return voyage. Captain O’Cain and several other survivors on Sanak Island began constructing a small schooner from the wreckage of the Eclipse with the help of local tribesmen. The new vessel was completed in February of 1809 and set sail with the remaining crew and passengers including O’Cain, his Hawaiian girlfriend, his escort Ivan Bubnov, two sailors, a number of promyshlennik and group of Aleut tribesman who had been assisting in the construction of the new schooner Eclipse. The new schooner wrecked on Unalaska Island and O’Cain, his girlfriend and two sailors drowned attempting to reach shore on floating ice. Ivan Bubnov, one promyshlennik and nine of the local tribesmen survived.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 54 25 N 162 40 W Chart 16006
Sources: 1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. A Voyage Round the World from 1806-1812 (1817) by Archibald Campbell, 3. Russian America: A Biographical Dictionary (Kingston, Ont., 1990), 78, 4. Russian America in the unpublished notes of K. T. Khlebnikov (Leningrad, 1979) Pg 143
EDITH (1915) The 2,369 ton 276 foot iron steam freighter Edith was lost August 29, 1915 off Cape Saint Elias near Kayak Island. At the time, the Edith was the 2nd largest freighter in northern routes. The Edith had taken on a cargo of copper concentrates at LaTouch valued at $150,000. She was outbound for Tacoma when large seas and heavy weather caused her cargo to shift and the vessel to nearly capsize. The crew abandoned the Edith in this condition and all were soon picked up by the steamer Mariposa. The Mariposa attempted to put the Edith in tow without success. The Edith eventually drifted ashore and broke up.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 56 N 144 23 W Chart 16723
Additional Information: Tonnage 2,369 Gross 1,495 Net, Length 276.4, Breadth 37.3, Depth 27.4, IHP 1,000, Built 1882 at Sunderland England, Registered Port Townsend WA, SL KQNL, ON 136858
Sources: 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 256, 2. Alaska Steam (1984) Pg 62, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1916) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 419, 4. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1914) Pg 155
EDITH (1965) The 9 ton 28 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Edith 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 9 Gross 7 Net, Length 28.7, Breadth 10.7, Depth 4.4, Built 1961 at Tacoma WA, Horsepower 165, SL WS2139, Owner Arctic Maid Fisheries, Registered Seattle, ON 285055
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 201, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1166
EDIZ LIGHT (1968) The gas screw Ediz light burned August 3, 1968 at the Alitak Cannery at Alitak.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 56 40 N 154 10 W Chart 16580
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
EDNA B (1979) The crab fishing vessel Edna B was consumed by fire February 6, 1979 approximately 25 miles south of Seward. All four crewmembers made it to shore and spent five days in a cabin in Driftwood Bay. One of the four perished, but the other three were rescued by the U S Coast Guard cutter Jellison. The radio signal of the crew had been picked up by a Washington State man and relayed to the Coast Guard in Alaska.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 56 N 149 13 W Chart 16680
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
EDNA NO 2 (1935) The 28 ton 46 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Edna No 2 burned at Ouzinkie June 22, 1935. The five persons aboard made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 55 30 N 152 29 50 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 28 Gross 19 Net, Length 46.8, Breadth 13.6, Depth 6.4, Built 1915 at Bellingham WA, Horsepower 50, Owner A H Soeneke, Registered Seattle WA, ON 213400
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1936) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1033, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1935) Pgs 302-3
EDNA WATTS (1936) The 20 ton wooden gas screw Edna Watts was lost at Unga July 2, 1936 to a gasoline explosion and fire. Laurits Pedersen of Unga and his crew of three survived, but the Edna Watts, valued at $1,200 and $60 worth of salt were lost. There was no insurance.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 11 N 160 30 10 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: Tonnage 20 Gross 14 Net, Built 1898, Registered Juneau, ON 136688, Owner and master Laurits Pedersen, Last Port Baranoff Harbor July 1, 1936
Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Unga
EDWARD E WEBSTER (1896) The 83 foot wooden sealing schooner Edward E Webster disappeared after leaving Kodiak April 25, 1896 with 29 men aboard. The vessel was last seen by the schooner Herman in the vicinity of the Trinity Islands where the schooner C G White was lost the year before. A fierce snow squall separated the two vessels who had been hunting together. Lost with the Webster were captain Frank Johnson, the captain’s brother hunter Magnus Johnson, first officer Gustave Weaver, hunter Andrew Simon, hunter William Blomquist, hunter Anton Cavalier, hunter Whitney and 22 crewmen.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 33 N 154 20 W Chart 16580
Comment: September 26 is the date the Herman reported the loss of the Webster in San Francisco. WG
Additional Information: Tonnage 98.8 Gross 93.8 Net, Length 83.5, Breadth 23.1, Depth 8.6, Built 1875 at Gloucester MA, Registered San Francisco CA, ON 135176
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1896) Pg 50, 2. The Philadelphia Inquirer (September 27, 1896) “The Ship Webster Lost” Pg 21, 3. Jackson Michigan Citizen (January 1, 1897) “1896 Casualties…September 26” Pg 6, 4. San Francisco Chronicle (September 26, 1896) “Webster’s Loss is a Certainty” Pg 14
EDWARD S WEBSTER (1889) The 83 foot schooner Edward S Webster struck a submerged rock near the entrance to Coal Harbor on Unga Island at 8:00 p.m. June 28, 1889 and was lost. The vessel had departed Port Townsend May 9 of that year on a fishing and sailing voyage with 12 crew aboard. The following are excerpts from the wreck report filed at Port Townsend August 7, 1889 by William J Hudder managing owner:
“Fresh westerly breeze and daylight. All sail set” “On a sunken reef of rocks off entrance to Coal Harbor, Unga Island, Alaska…Stranded on a sunken rock.”
“There was no indication of danger. The hidden rocks were not indicated on any chart on board the vessel, and she was bound to Coal Harbor for food and water. The officers and crew of vessel did all that was possible to be done under the circumstances to get the vessel afloat, but without avail.”
“When the vessel was abandoned the crew all went to Sand Point, Popoff Island, where they proceeded to return to home port.”
There were no human casualties but the Edward S Webster, valued at $8,000 and her fishing and hunting outfit, valued at $5,000 were lost. The vessel was insured for $6,000 and her cargo for $5,000.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 20 30 N 160 39 30 W Chart 16006
Comment: Reports indicate that this vessel was condemned and sold for $300, subsequently refloated and taken to San Francisco by the new owners. WG
Additional Information: Length 83, Breadth 23, Depth 8, Tonnage 93.86 Net, Built 1875 Gloucester Mass, Registered Port Townsend Washington Territory, ON 37, Master Henry McAlmond of Port Townsend, Owner William Hudder
Sources: 1. U S Customs Wreck Report filed August 7, 1889, 2. Report of the Secretary of the Interior Volume III (1892) “Shipwrecks” Pgs 493-4
EL DAN (1996) The 61 foot crab fishing vessel El Dan lost her main engine and her anchor, capsized and sank December 5, 1996 in Portage Bay just west of Kanatak in the Shelikof Strait. The El Dan had entered Portage Bay seeking shelter from high winds and whiteout conditions. The high winds caused the vessel to roll over to her port side and she did not recover. All five crewmembers abandoned ship in immersion suits to the life raft and were rescued. The vessel had been crab fishing near Dutch Harbor and was on her way to Homer.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 34 05 N 156 02 15 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Length 61.3, ON 626786, Call Sign WYQ9509
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. USCG MISLE Case # 846871
EL DORA (1973) The troller gillnetter El Dora stranded on a reef and sank June 3, 1973 near Shuyak Island. See ELL-DORA (1973) below.
EL FIRMA (1964) The 8 ton 31 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel El Firma foundered in December of 1964 at Cordova.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 33 N 145 45 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 6 Net, Length 31.3, Breadth 9, Depth 4.4, Built 1922 at Ellamar, Horsepower 16, Owner Andrew M Johnson, Registered Juneau, ON 224200
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 204, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1166
EL HURD (1930) The 39 ton 60.3 foot wooden diesel schooner El Hurd stranded at Chichagof Bay 4:00 p.m. July 18, 1930. The crew of five fishermen escaped unharmed but the vessel did not fare as well. The following is an accounting from the Report of Casualty filed at Seward August 10, 1930 by the Owner:
“Chichagof Bay, U S Coast Pilot Book, Page 182, Chart No. 8700.”
“Captain states that he was not a stranger, as he had gone in and out of this Bay number of times, but that he mistook one point for another. He staid by the vessel until the 22nd, when they came over to Sand Point for help. I then got the agent for the Skinner & Eddy Co., Seattle, Wa., to give me their power launch, and I got about 30 gas drums and took over, and placed them in her hull, and as the water rose, she finally moved off the rock, but never righted up, so never knew how badly she was damaged. Well, we put her on the mud flat, and took the drums out of her, and on high water turned her over and found the whole bottom was gone, and side up to the guard, all the ribs for about 20 feet, also keel broken clean off in two places on the starboard side, and all but for about thirty feet loosened on the port side, so had her surveyed by three passed men and condemned as a total loss.”
The El Hurd was valued at $18,000 at the time of the loss with $10,000 worth of insurance.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 39 N 160 14 W Chart 16553
Additional Information: Tonnage 39 Gross 26 Net, Age 34 years, Registered Seward, ON 136596, Master Eugene Martin of San Francisco, Owner Andrew Grosvold of Sand Point, Last Port Sand Point, Destination Fishing
Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty August 10, 1930
EL RANCHO (1985) The 82 foot crab fishing vessel El Rancho capsized and sank February 7, 1985 approximately 35 miles west of Cape Alitak. The five crewmen aboard were rescued by U S Coast Guard helicopter.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 50 40 N 154 18 W Chart 16580
Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
ELECTRA (1982) The 112 foot fish processor Electra caught fire and sank August 25, 1982 while anchored a half mile off of Dillingham in the Nushagak River. The two crewmembers on board escaped uninjured.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 02 30 N 158 27 30 W Chart 16006
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
ELEVERA (1917) The wooden gas powered vessel Elevera stranded and was lost at Cape Cleare Montague Island Tuesday June 12, 1917 at 1:00 a.m. The crew of two survived the loss of the vessel. Owner and master of the Elevera, W S Pay reported the following:
“Calm fog… thick fog adverse current…going slow struck rock no chance to do anything.”
The Elevera was valued at $1,500 with no cargo and no insurance.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 47 N 147 54 W Chart 16701
Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Net, Age 11 years, Registered Juneau, ON 136876, Last Port Latouche, Destination Montague Island
Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed August 15, 1917
ELIZABETH MARY (1892) The 49 foot wooden steamer Elizabeth Mary was lost at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday October 18, 1892 in Cook Inlet. The vessel stranded in a strong gale with heavy seas. The Elizabeth Mary had been taken apart and shipped on board the bark Alexander M Neil to Alaska. Her last port is listed as San Francisco April 20, 1892 on the wreck report filed in San Francisco by manager W H Eastland of the Alaska Coal Company. The value of the Elizabeth Mary at the time of the loss was posted as $1,500 with $1,000 insured. The crew of three survived the loss and there was no cargo.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska Unknown Cook Inlet
Additional Information: Length 49, Breadth 11.6, Depth 3.1, NHP 10, Built 1876 San Francisco, Tonnage 7.31, Registered San Francisco, ON 135258, Master George W Love of San Francisco, Owner California Dry Dock Company
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed February 7, 1894 in San Francisco
ELIZAVETA (1805) The Russian vessel Elizaveta (Zakharii I Elizaveta) was wrecked between Kodiak and Sitka (New Archangel) December of 1805.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska Unknown
Source: Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992)
ELL-DORA (1973) The 17 ton39 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Ell-Dora stranded and was lost June 3, 1973 near Shuyak Island.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 31 N 152 30 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 17 Gross 14 Net, Length 39, Breadth 10.3, Depth 7, Built 1956 at Anacortes WA, ON 271845
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 209, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1974) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1635
ELLA M (1926) The 17 ton gas screw Ella M drug anchor in a heavy gale and broke up on shore at Afognak Beach Wednesday May 19, 1926. There was no one aboard at the time of the casualty. The Ella M was valued at $1,500 and had no insurance.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 00 30 N 152 46 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 17, Age 17 years, Registered Seward, ON 224129, Master and Owner Robert VonSheele of Afognak
Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Seward June 14, 1926 by VonSheele
ELLIDA (1913) The 19 ton wooden gas screw Ellida stranded and was lost at 3 a.m. October 17, 1913 on the NE side of Unga Island. The following is an accounting taken from the wreck report filed by owner and master N H Johnson of Juneau:
“Hurricane, rough sea… dark” “Broke loose from moorings 10 o’clock p.m. Set sail… beat off shore about 2 miles… hove too under reefed forsail. Topmast broke about 2 o’clock a.m. Engine too small to be of any use under the circumstances.” “Stranded…Dismasted…NE side Unga Island… Total Loss”
The crew of three survived the wreck, but the Ellida, valued at $2,000 was a total loss. Some of the 20 tons of cargo worth $2,200 was salvaged. The wreck report lists the cargo as salt, lumber and general merchandise of which only $600 worth was saved.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 15 N 160 40 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: Tonnage 19 Gross 13 Net, Age 19 years, Registered Juneau, ON 136434, Last Port Juneau September 15, 1913, Destination Sand Point
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed January 2, 1914 by Johnson
ELLRINGON (1945) The 22 ton 47 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Ellrington burned at Cordova March 17, 1945.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 33 N 145 45 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: Tonnage 22 Gross 18 Net, Length 47.6, Breadth 13.1, Depth 5.8, Built 1918 at Seattle WA, Crew 4, Horsepower 30, Owner Lloyd White, Registered Juneau, ON 217451
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1946) Pg 142, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1947) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 823
ELLVIRA The 12 ton 31 foot wooden gas screw Ellvira stranded and was lost on Montague Island June 12, 1916. The four persons on board made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 10 N 147 15 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross 8 Net, Length 31.5, Breadth 10.4, Depth 4.2, Built 1901 at Seattle WA, Registered Cordova, ON 136876
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1918) Pg 440, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1916) Pg 224
ELNA (1943) The 1,434 ton 240 foot U S Army steam transport ship Elna stranded and was lost in the Shelikof Strait near Wide Bay December 27, 1943. Parts of the wreck are still visible at low tide.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 22 N 156 11 W Chart 16568
Comment: This is probably the wreck marked as “mast” just below Imuya Bay
Additional Information: Tonnage 1,434 Gross 791 Net, Length 240, Breadth 40, Depth 15, Built 1920 at Brunswick GA, Service freight, Crew 29, Horsepower 1,400, Owner Johannes Ramselius, SL KJHM, Registered San Francisco, ON 220793
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1945) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 775, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1944) Pg 27, 3. AWOIS Wreck Record #50101
ELSIE (1898) The 68 foot wooden schooner Elsie ran ashore at 2 a.m. on the NE side of Chirikof Island Sunday April 25, 1898. The Elsie had departed Seattle March 25, 1898 bound for Unalaska and was carrying 24 miners and 80,000 lbs of lumber and miners supplies. Explanations of the wreck were listed as “wrong reckoning…moderate sailing breeze…no moon or starlight…casualty unexpected.” The vessel was valued at $3,600 and her cargo at $15,000. The vessel is cited as a total loss and her cargo was estimated at 75% lost. All of the 24 miners and 5 crewmembers survived. The Elsie had no insurance.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 50 N 155 37 W Chart 16580
Comment: H W McCurdy has the Elsie’s destination as Kotzebue Sound (Pg 40)
Additional Information: Length 67.7, Breadth 26.6, Depth 7.5, Built 1894 at Port Townsend Washington, Tonnage 59.87, Registered Seattle, ON 136486, Master L M Larson of Seattle, Owner L W Stetson of Seattle
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed June 9, 1898 by Stetson
ELSIE (1910) The 159 ton wood steamer Elsie sank while at anchor December 31, 1910 in Valdez Bay. The watchman of the vessel was temporarily absent when a strong wind, heavy snow and ice caused the vessel to lay over and fill with water. She was valued at $20,000 and had no insurance.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 61 07 N 146 16 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: Tonnage 159 Gross 101 Net, Age 21 years, Built Portland Oregon, Registered Juneau, ON 136031, Master D C Morris of Cordova, Last Port Cordova, Destination Valdez, Owner Hugh Murray of Valdez
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed by Viola Murray Sullivan, administratrix of Hugh Murray estate on September 17, 1911
ELUSIVE (1981) The 86 foot fishing vessel Elusive caught fire and sank October 22, 1981 near Cape Ikolik. The fishing vessels Alert and Gerry D were on hand to assist and the five crewmen from the Elusive were taken aboard the Gerry D. The fire originated in the engine room.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 17 15 N 154 47 W Chart 16580
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
ELVA V (1973) The 45 foot wooden crabber Elva V struck a rock near Kodiak and was lost September 27, 1973. The three crewmembers, owner Mitch Sutton, Jim Brisco and Robin Reed escaped to a skiff and were able to paddle to a nearby beach, land and build a fire. They were subsequently rescued by a passing Dungeness crab boat owned by Tim Longrich.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 38 Gross 21 Net, Length 45.1, Breadth 16.4, Depth 5.2, Built 1961 at Eureka CA, HP 200, ON 286404
Sources: 1. Alaskashipwreck.com/shipwrecks-A-Z (June 9, 2014) Comment from Elva V crewmember, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) Pg 249, 3. Communication with crewmember Jim Brisco (June 9, 2014) WG
ELVEKEMA (1973) The oil screw Elvekema foundered and was lost October 11, 1973 at Cordova.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 33 N 145 45 W Chart 16700
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
ELVIN A THOMPSON (1900) The steamer Elvin A Thompson wrecked near Cape Newenham August 14, 1900. The vessel was valued at $1,400 with cargo at the time of the loss.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 58 39 N 162 10 30 W Chart 16006
Sources: 1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 63
EMA MARIE (1964) The 7 ton 31 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Ema Marie foundered August 8, 1964 at Iliamna Bay.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 37 N 153 33 W Chart 16640
Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross 5 Net, Length 31.5, Breadth 11.9, Depth 3.2, Built 1948 at Seldovia, Horsepower 115, SL WD6463, Owner Seldovia-Port Graham Consolidation Inc., Registered Juneau, ON 258665
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 202, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1003
EMERALD COVE (1991) The 31 foot salmon seiner Emerald Cove was consumed by fire and sank October 22, 1991 near Cordova. The fire was attributed to soot buildup causing a stack fire. The sole person aboard made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 33 N 145 45 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: ON 520916
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
EMERALD PACIFIC (1992) The 107 foot wooden fishing vessel Emerald Pacific burned near Valdez October 12, 1992. The fire was extinguished by the Valdez Star and the Liberty Service but not before the superstructure was burned down to the main deck level and the vessel became a total loss. The two persons on board were rescued from a liferaft.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 61 07 N 146 16 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: Tonnage 137 Gross 93 Net, Length 107.5, Breadth 17.9, Depth 9.3, Built 1943 at Sturgeon Bay WI, ON 253987, Former Name Robin, Call Sign WF3408
Sources : 1. USCG MISLE Case # 857176, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) Pgs 474 & 1895
EMERALD SEA (1988) The 52 foot fiberglass power gurdy troller and longliner Emerald Sea disappeared after leaving Yakutat April 7, 1988. The hull of the vessel was found washed up on the beach at Icy Bay three days later. Five crewmembers were lost in the disaster including skipper Greg VonSchweinit of Coos Bay OR, Mark VonSchweinit of Coos Bay OR, Danny Lamons of Puyallup WA, Eric Myrman of Ashland OR and Greg Lamons of Coos Bay OR.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 55 N 141 33 W Chart 16016
Additional Information: Tonnage 47 Gross 35 Net, Length 48.5, Breadth 15.8, Depth 8.7, Built 1978 Hoquiam WA, ON 590789, Call Sign WYD2250
Sources: 1.BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Daily Sitka Sentinel (April 13, 1988) “3 Fishermen Still Missing” Pg 1
EMERSON (1936) See EMMIRSON (1936)
EMMA (1940) The 7 ton 32 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Emma was consumed by fire September 8, 1940 in Tiedeman Slough. The one person aboard made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 25 N 145 28 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross 6 Net, Length 32.6, Breadth 10.2, Depth 4, Built 1921 at Katalla, Owner Walter Hansen, Registered Cordova, ON 221704
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1941) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 510, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1939) Pg 142
EMMA & LOUISA (1900) The 83 foot wooden schooner Emma & Louisa grounded 1/8th mile from Hope City on an ebb tide Friday October 12, 1900 at 1 p.m. and broke in two when the tide went out. The vessel departed Seattle September 15, 1900 bound for Cook Inlet with a crew of six and 110 tons of lumber, coal and general merchandise. When the Emma & Louisa grounded the crew and some men from shore attempted to free her by discharging her deck load. In the end only some of her cargo was salvaged. The vessel, valued at $4,000 became a total loss, as did most of her cargo worth $9,500. The crew made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 55 15 N 149 38 30 W Chart 16013
Comment: H W McCurdy lists this vessel as Emma Louise (Pg 63)
Additional Information: Length 83, Breadth 26, Depth 7.1, Built 1874 Little River, California, Tonnage 84, Registered Seattle, ON 135066, Master Sam’l L Waltz of Seattle, Owner J G Pacy, Vessel Insurance $3,000, Cargo Insurance $7,700
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed November 28, 1900 at Seattle by Waltz
EMMIRSON (1936) The 17 ton 37 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Emmirson foundered near Chignik August 4, 1936.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 22 N 158 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: Tonnage 17 Gross 11 Net, Length 37.4, Breadth 10.5, Depth 5.9, Built 1929 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 20, Owner Charles H Sharp of Seldovia, Registered Seward, ON 228425
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1937) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 527, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1936) Pgs 310-11, 3. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 449
ENDEAVOR (1983) The 92 foot crab fishing vessel Endeavor capsized and sank September 23, 1983 approximately 25 miles northeast of Sand Point in the Shumagin Islands. There were no survivors. Lost were captain John Bartee of Port Angeles WA, Marshal Patrick of Anchorage, Pat Gillen of Lynwood WA and Jeff Rhodes.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 20 15 N 160 30 W Chart 16553
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
EPC 22 (1992) The 28 foot fishing vessel EPC 22 suffered an engine failure during a storm, blew ashore and sank September 3, 1992 in Bristol Bay.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 N 162 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: ON 265466
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
EPIC (1978) The 137 ton 72 foot steel oil screw crab fishing vessel Epic rolled over and sank off the south end of Kodiak Island the evening of November 4, 1978. Four of five crewmembers of the Epic were lost. Among the four lost were captain Reid Hiner of Kodiak, Gene Roberts of Cutter CA, Matt Gravinski of Dixon CA and Bob Waage of Kodiak. The sole survivor was Richard Majdic of Kodiak who was found clinging to the overturned hull of the Epic.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 30 N 154 50 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 137 Gross 105 Net, Length 72.7, Breadth 22.4, Depth 11.6, Built 1970 at Mobile AL, Horsepower 365, SL WY8844, Registered Juneau, ON 525715
Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1976) Pg 405, 3. Kodiak Daily Mirror (November 6, 1978) “Four Still Reported Missing” Front Page
EQUALIZER (1999) The 32 foot fiberglass salmon fishing vessel Equalizer was consumed by fire from an engine explosion and lost July 13, 1999 in Bristol Bay. All three crewmembers were rescued by the fishing vessel Butterfly.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 N 162 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: ON 909395
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
ERIN (1963) The 10 ton 31 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Erin burned July 4, 1963 at the New England Fish Company Cannery at Orca.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 39 50 N 145 43 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 8 Net, Length 31, Breadth 10.7, Depth 4.2, Built 1947 at Valdez, Horsepower 85, Owner New England Fish Company, Registered Juneau, ON 262014
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) Pg 198, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 964
ERMAK (2000) The 35 foot fiberglass trawler Ermak flooded her lazarette and sank January 29, 2000 approximately 40 miles south of Seward. All three crewmembers were rescued by the fishing vessel Helios.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 06 30 N 149 26 30 W Chart 16680
Additional Information: ON 697219
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
ESKIMO (1956) The 61 ton 75 foot wooden oil screw cannery tender Eskimo stranded and was lost July 31, 1956 four miles south of Cape Barnabas on Sitkalikdak Island, near Kodiak Island. All four persons aboard and a dog named Lady were rescued.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 53 09 N 152 53 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: Tonnage 61 Gross 41 Net, Length 75.1, Breadth 20.4, Depth 7.3, Built 1890 at Benicia CA, Former Names Pacific and Puffin , Service Freight, Horsepower 200, SL WA4752, Owner Washington Fish & Oyster Company, Registered Ketchikan, ON 150482
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) Pg 164, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1957) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 756, 3. Seattle Daily Times (August 3, 1956) “Seagoing Dog Reported Safe In Kodiak” Pg 14
ESTHER (1933) The salmon canning vessel and historic schooner Esther sank at her moorings in Uganik Bay in 1933. The Esther was originally the wooden brig Harriet G which capsized off Cape Flattery with a load of lumber. The Harriet G was re-rigged as a 3-Master and re-named Esther. She was later purchased by fishing businessman Ottar Hofstad who had been active in the fisheries since 1905. He first used the Esther to pack salt herring. In 1927 he established the North Pacific Packing Company and converted the Esther to a salmon canning concern off Amook Island where he purchased salmon directly from local fishermen. Holstad eventually went bankrupt and the Esther fell into disrepair, sinking in 1933 in Uganik Bay. The engine was reported salvaged in 1934
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 50 N 153 32 W Chart 16580
Source: Salmon from Kodiak (1986) Pgs 75-76
ESTHER D (1951) The 16 ton 45 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Esther D foundered November 17, 1951 on the northwest side of Kumlik Island.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 38 N 157 24 W Chart 16566
Additional Information: Tonnage 16 Gross 11 Net, Length 45.5, Breadth 13.2, Depth 4, Built 1942 at Algonac MI, Former Name LOP (R) C-100012 (U S N), Horsepower 105, SL WA 4779, Owner Oren A Diamond, Registered Juneau, ON 253503
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1952) Pg 172, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1953-1954) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 744
ETHEL D (1983) The 60 foot crab fishing vessel Ethel D caught fire in her engine room and sank August 2, 1983 one mile off of Cape Chiniak east of Kodiak. The crew was rescued by U S Coast Guard HH-52.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 37 N 152 10 W Chart 16580
Comment: Some conflicting reports have this vessel towed to dry dock. WG
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
EUDORA (1962) The 143 ton 100 foot wooden oil screw pleasure vessel Eudora stranded and was lost August 26, 1962 at Cape Devine on Korovin Island.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 22 45 N 160 09 W Chart 16553
Additional Information: Tonnage 143 Gross 97 Net, Length 100.6, Breadth 19.4, Depth 10.2, Built 1944 at Brownsville TX, Former Name P-755 (U S A), Horsepower 360, SL WC6408, Owner Harriet G Hiney, Registered Seattle, ON 254405
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) Pg 195, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 930
EUNICE (1962) The 34 ton 55 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Eunice was consumed by fire March 11, 1962 at Homer.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 38 40 N 151 33 W Chart 16640
Additional Information: Tonnage 34 Gross 23 Net, Length 55.2, Breadth 14.2, Depth 5.1, Built 1912 at Petersburg, Horsepower 275, SL WA4820, Owner Karl Sullivan, Registered Ketchikan, ON 210578
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) Pg 203, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 964
EUNICE H (1956) The 9 ton 32 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Eunice H foundered August 15, 1956 in Prince William Sound.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 45 N 147 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: Tonnage 9 Gross 6 Net, Length 32.4, Breadth 9.8, Depth 3.8, Built 1932 at Cordova, Horsepower 110, Owner Elmer Sandstrom, Registered Juneau, ON 237365
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1957) Pg 170, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1958) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 777
EUPHORIA (1984) The crab fishing vessel Euphoria capsized August 3, 1984 approximately 100 miles southeast of Yakutat. All three crewmembers were rescued.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 33 N 139 44 W Chart 16016
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
EVANGELINE (1998) The 46 foot longline cod fishing vessel Evangeline struck the rocks and capsized in the surf while trying to anchor February 15, 1998 near southwest Montague Island. All three crewmembers made it to safety.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 10 N 147 15 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: ON 223329
Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)
EVANICK (1989) The 34 foot longline halibut fishing vessel Evanick flooded and sank June 13, 1989 off of Cape Chiniak near Kodiak. All five persons on board were rescued by a U S Coast Guard Helicopter.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 37 N 152 10 W Chart 16580
Additional Information: ON 592878
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
EVANICK (1998) The 50 foot herring fishing vessel Evanick capsized and was lost April 26, 1998 south of the Shelikof Strait near the Alaska Peninsula. The disaster was thought to have been caused when a large seine skiff shifted on deck. All four crewmembers were lost including owner and operator Carl VanValkenberg, Robert Richie, Harry Modesette and Shawn R Gibson, all from Kodiak. The vessel was traveling from Kodiak on her way to Togiak for the herring opening. First knowledge of a problem was indicated when the 406 EPIRB from the vessel began emitting a signal. U S Coast Guard Helo 6023 located the overturned hull of the Evanick 17 miles ESE of Cape Providence south of the Shelikof Strait. Responding vessels Captain Kidd and Invincible made way to the overturned hull and launched a skiff at the scene. After tapping the hull with no response, divers were called in to search for the crew. The vessel’s life raft and survival suits were still onboard. None of the crew of the Evanick was ever found and the vessel sank in 102 fathoms of water.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 54 47 N 156 17 W Chart 16013
Additional Information: Tonnage 36 Gross 29 Net, Length 50, Breadth 15.5, Depth 7, ON 956903, Call Sign WAR3519
Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. USCG MISLE Case # 822968
EVELYN (1964) The diesel screw Evelyn 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
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
EVELYN (1984) The fishing vessel Evelyn sank August 24, 1984 near Chugach Island.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 59 07 N 151 40 W Chart 16640
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
EVERETT (1942) The Puget Sound Bridge & Dredging Company dredge Everett was lost September 24, 1942 at Cape Pankof. The vessel was engaged in the construction of naval air bases.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 54 40 N 163 04 W Chart 16011
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)
EXCELSIOR (1906) The 138 foot three masted schooner Excelsior stranded on a bar and was lost in NE side channel Nelsons Lagoon at 7 p.m. August 30, 1906. The vessel left San Francisco April 15th with a crew of 19 and 301 tons of cargo for Nelsons Lagoon. When the Excelsior stranded she was reported to be carrying 2105 barrels of salt salmon. The following are excerpts from the Wreck Report filed October 31, 1906 in San Francisco by managing owner Z B Frisbie of Alameda:
“Moderate breeze, but daylight, heavy swell…Sudden changing of wind to head.” “When wind changed endeavored to return to Lagoon with sail and towboat.” Driven ashore in NE side channel Nelsons Lagoon (Cape Rodgnof)..stranded on bar.” “ No further particulars, save that the cargo was lightered ashore and stored under cover, except 240 barrels under tarpaulin.”
The wreck report has the Excelcior, valued at $5,000 and her cargo, valued at $18,000 listed as total losses. At the time of the report the insurance was unknown.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 56 N 161 W Chart 16011
Comment: Nelson Lagoon and Cape Rozhnof. WG
Additional Information: Length 138, Breadth 32.5, Depth 11, Built 1876 at Fairhaven California, Tonnage 348 Gross 330 Net, Registered San Francisco, ON 135245, Master J Christiansen of San Francisco, Casualties none
Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed October 31, 1906
EXCITER (2001) The 40 foot gillnet fishing vessel Exciter stranded in rough seas and was lost at 4:33 a.m. July 6, 2001 approximately 35 miles northeast of Port Moller. The two crewmembers were rescued with the help of the fishing vessel Finner and a U S Coast Guard Helicopter.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 59 30 N 160 34 30 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: ON 971837
Source: U S C G District 17 News Release (July 7, 2001) “Two rescued after fishing vessel runs aground in surf near Port Moller.
EXCURSION (1956) The 46 ton 65 foot wooden oil screw Excursion stranded and was lost August 20, 1956 in Cordova Bay.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 33 N 145 45 W Chart 16700
Additional Information: Tonnage 46 Gross 31 Net, Length 65, Breadth 14.7, Depth 6.5, Built 1912 at Astoria OR, Service freight, Horsepower 100, SL WA4873, Owner Howard Tonnesen, Registered Seattle, ON 209645
Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) Pg 171, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1957) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 756
EXCURSION (2001) The 70 foot wooden fish tender Excursion was consumed by fire and sank July 26, 2001 in Bristol Bay 80 miles northeast of Cold Bay near Port Moller. All four crewmembers abandoned ship to a life raft after issuing a May-Day. The crew was rescued by a U S C G Helicopter from Kodiak Air Station.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 55 59 30 N 160 34 30 W Chart 16006
Additional Information: ON 240507
Source: U S C G District 17 News Release (July 26, 2001)
EXPLORER (1964) The 13 ton 36 foot wooden gas screw vessel Explorer 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 12 Net, Length 36, Breadth 10.9, Depth 3.9, Built 1947 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 250, Service passenger, SL WK5247, Owner Alf Madsen, Registered Juneau, ON 276960
Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 213
EXXON VALDEZ (1989) The 209,200 ton supertanker Exxon Valdez stranded on Bligh Reef in Prince William Sound March 24, 1989. The vessel was outbound from the port of Valdez with full tanks of crude oil. Over 11 million gallons of oil spilled into the pristine Alaskan waters creating the worst oil spill in United States history at that time. The Exxon Valdez was eventually refloated and returned to service as the Exxon Mediterranean.
Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 60 50 30 N 146 52 30 W Chart 16700
Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)