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was called, with the following results: We found here a large saw mill, built by Mr. F., as also were all the other buildings here, especially for his purpose in building vessels, as he does not intend to stop with one, but proposes to proceed at once toward building another. This mill is supplies with the most modern and approved machinery, saws, etc. The engine is one of "Blandy's" make, of Zanesville. This department is under the charge of J. E. Thompkins. Next in order stands the blacksmith shop, where our genial friend, James Black, holds sway. The job of iron work done on this vessel is one which reflect great credit upon Mr. Black, and fully convinces all that he is one of the very best mechanics. There are also on the yard, "dry houses," Boarding houses," etc., each doing their respective work in the buildings. Having taken the routine of the shops, we now come to the schooner, as she sits quietly on the stocks, waiting for the word "cut." She is of find shape, painted white to her water line. The spars were not in, and so we give only a description of her "hull" - Length of keel 192 feet, Breadth of beam 34 feet, Depth of hold 14 ½ feet. Promptly at five o'clock the word "all ready" was given by Mr. William Raynor, the "Boss Builder" of the job, and immediately sang out the word "cut." This was promptly obeyed and with one graceful slide she sat on the water and after one or two "side surges, "she sat erect and proud on the water, amidst the deafening cheers of the crowd. As she had not yet been christened, "no colors" were displayed, and therefore for the present she is "unknown." Mr. Raynor, the foreman of the job, is a practical ship- carpenter of many years' experience and deserves much credit for the able manner in which he has finished the job. He goes immediately upon the completion of this to another of equal size and capacity. M. Stalker, of the Amaranth is to take charge of the vessel when she goes out." Sandusky Daily Register, August 13, 1874. CAPTAIN JOHN DUFF (1829-1893) Captain John Duff was born on July 2, 1829 in Girvan Ayrshire, Scotland. He married Caroline A. Curtis, daughter of Captain William Curtis of Avon Lake, Ohio. Their marriage was blessed with five children. The family settled in Port Clinton, Ohio. During his residence in Port Clinton, Captain Duff built the barkentine C. B. Benson (1873) and the schooner Nellie E. Duff (1885). The Nellie E. Duff may have been named for his daughter, Nellie. Captain Duff was in command of the C. B. Benson in October of 1893, when she sank at Gravelly Bay. She had left Buffalo and was bound for Toledo. All seven men on board were lost, including Captain Duff and his son Curtis, 28. The Buffalo Evening News reported the following on November 2, 1893: Ridgeway, Nov. 1 - I picked up a bottle near the 173