Disaster on Lake Erie: The 1841 Wreck of the Steamship Erie

by Alvin F. Oickle

On August 9, 1841, the steamship Erie, one of the most elegant and fastest sailing between Buffalo and Chicago, departed carrying 340 passengers. Many were Swiss and German immigrants, planning to start new lives in America's heartland most never made it. The Erie erupted in flames during the night, and despite the heroic efforts of the crew of the Dewitt Clinton, 254 lives were lost. As news of this disaster spread, internationally renowned artists and writers, including Charles Dickens, were inspired to reflect on the lives lost. Historian Alvin F. Oickle's minute-by-minute account weaves together the tragic journey of the passengers, the legend that developed in the aftermath and the fury of a fire on an ocean-like lake.

175 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 2011

Reviews

[Dianne McMahan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This disaster could have been avoided, if paint & turpentine had been properly stored.
The wreck of the Steamship Erie, goes down as another casualty of early
transportation.
Over 250 souls lost,mainly persons of German roots that were coming to America for a better life.
Long Court hearings after survivors were found with the blame game beginning,although they actually held no one accountable.
Very dry stuff to read and absorb.

[Jim Swike · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew nothing about this disaster. I do now. It's worth a read if the topic interests you. Enjoy!