May Richards (Schooner), collision, 30 May 1887

OSWEGO Tug of 94 Tons, owned by Grummond. Home port, Detroit. Built 1857 Class B 1. On May 30, 1887, the tug with no cargo, sunk in Lake Erie. Raised at a cost of $3,000
      1887 Casualty List (partial loss)
      The Marine Record, Dec. 15, 1887 p. 4 & 5



      Detroit.---About 1 o'clock Monday morning the tug OSWEGO, Captain John Randall, came into collision with the Barge MAY RICHARDS, Captain Place, below Colchester Reef, about mid channel. The OSWEGO was in charge of mate Brown and was cruising around in watch for a tow. On sighting what he supposed was a large schooner he rounded to and attempted to cross the bow of what proved to be the Barge MAY RICHARDS. She struck the OSWEGO nearly amidships, her jibboom penetrating the wheelhouse of the OSWEGO and completely demolishing the bunk upon which lay the wheelsman, who miraculously escaped uninjured. The OSWEGO filled rapidly, sinking in less than four minutes. The crew of twelve men had barely time to take to their boat. After being out nearly three hours they landed near Kingsville, and reached Detroit at noon Monday. Neither Captains were on watch at the time of the collision. No blame is attached to the RICHARDS, as the night was clear. The blame alone lies with Brown for his foolhardy attempt. The OSWEGO is owned by Captain S.B. Grummond. She is valued at $10,000 and uninsured. She will be raised. The schooner is probably damaged about $1,000 worth.
      The Marine Record
      Thurs. June 2, 1887 p. 4