Press Staff Writer
The National Museum of the Great Lakes (NMGL), in collaboration with Cleveland Underwater Explorers (CLUE), recently announced the confirmation of a newly discovered shipwreck in Lake Erie — the bark Clough — along with the opening of a temporary micro exhibit showcasing the find.
CLUE, with support from NMGL, has worked since 2001 to locate and identify shipwrecks in Lake Erie, helping to preserve and share the region’s maritime history. Following several site visits, the creation of a detailed site map, and extensive historical research, the team positively identified the vessel as the Clough.
The discovery carries deep meaning for CLUE and NMGL. The wreck site is associated with the tragic loss of CLUE founder David VanZandt in June 2024. In the months following his passing, both organizations committed to completing the identification process with care, accuracy and respect.
Through collaborative research and documentation, the vessel has now been formally confirmed.
Built in Lorain, Ohio, in 1867, the Clough was a stone-hauling sailing vessel owned by Baxter Clough, a quarry owner from Amherst, Ohio. Measuring 125 feet in length with a breadth of 26.5 feet, the Clough was classified as a bark — a three-masted vessel rigged with square sails on the foremast and schooner sails on the main and mizzen masts. The ship met its fate just one year after its launch, sinking on Sept. 15, 1868, while transporting stone for Great Lakes commerce.
To share this important discovery with the public, NMGL debuted a new temporary micro exhibit highlighting the Clough and the process behind its identification. The exhibit will be on view through, Thursday, April 16, at NMGL, located at 1701 Front St., Toledo.
Visitors will learn about the vessel’s history, the archaeological work that led to its confirmation, and CLUE’s ongoing efforts to document Lake Erie shipwrecks.
“This discovery represents both a significant chapter in Great Lakes maritime history and a meaningful continuation of David VanZandt’s legacy,” said Carrie Sowden, NMGL Director of Archaeology and Research. “We’re honored to partner with CLUE to bring this story to light and to share it with our community through this exhibit.”
The Clough micro exhibit offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at underwater exploration and historical research, connecting modern discovery with 19th-century Great Lakes commerce. Museum admission includes access to the exhibit. For more information, visit nmgl.org.