Martha Freme (Schooner), collision, 1 Aug 1840

The schr. MARTHA FREME arrived this morning with part of her rigging and stanchions carried away, in consequence of a collision with the brig INDIANA last night, while off Pt. Abino. Both vessels were injured considerably and remained with their rigging entangled together for nearly an hour. The brig lost her bowsprit.
      These collisions have become so frequent of late that they call for special notice, and are without doubt the result of carelessness. Every vessel is bound to carry a light in some conspicuous part of her rigging. This done, they could recover, lawfully, all damages sustained by collisions, but not otherwise. A few days since the IOWA was run down, and sunk, and subsequently went to pieces. Although insured in part, it is doubtful if the owners can recover in consequence of the omission to fulfill this important part of the contract.
      The frivolous pretext set up by ship masters, that a light is a target for steamboats, will not avail them when they make application for the recovery of damages. (2-1)
      Buffalo Commercial Advertiser
      August 28, 1840

      . . . . .

      A collision took place between the schooner MARTHA FREME and brig INDIANA on Thursday night last, off Point Abino, by which both vessels were considerably damaged.
      Erie Gazette
      September 3, 1840