Mayflower (Schooner), sunk, 2 Sep 1864

TERRIBLE MARINE DISASTER. -- We, 'Free Press ' are pained to be compelled to chronicle one of these fearful disasters whose periodical occurrence causes the soul of humanity to shudder. The schooner MAYFLOWER, Capt. P.J. AverilL, of Port Huron was lost in the storm last Saturday, off the mouth of Black River, Lake Erie, by which eight lives were lost, including the entire crew with one exception, together with two women and three children. Black River is about 23 miles above Cleveland. The MAYFLOWER left Cleveland on Saturday with 160 tons of coal for the Toledo gas works. The crew consisted of Captain Averill the mate, George Lincoln, both of Port Huron; Archibald Simpson, of Canada West, and James Sanderson, a boy of 15 or 16 years old, the only survivor of all on board. Capt. Averill's wife and three children were also on board, and also his sister. The schooner was too heavily laden, and apprehensions were felt for her safety when leaving port.
      Goderich Signal, Semi Weekly
      Tuesday, September 6, 1864


Schooner MAYFLOWER, Capt. P.J. Averill of Port Huron lost in a storm in Lake Erie off the mouth of Black River, 23 miles above Cleveland, with a cargo of 160 tons of coal from Cleveland for Toledo. Vessel owned by A.H. Fish and the Captain. The vessel was not insured. (condensed)
      Toronto Globe
      September 2, 1864