TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – The Cleveland Underwater Explorers (CLUE) have discovered a new shipwreck in Lake Erie, and a museum exhibit celebrating the discovery is now on view at the National Museum of the Great Lakes (NMGL).
The museum announced the discovery of the Clough on Wednesday morning in a collaborative press release with CLUE.
The Clough was built in Lorain in 1867 and owned by Baxter Clough, an Amherst-born quarry owner. The 125-foot-long, three-masted ship reportedly sank one year after launch while transporting stone for Great Lakes commerce.
Bow of the Clough showing the anchor chain.(Jack Papes)
CLUE’s team confirmed the ship’s identity after several site visits and extensive historical research. The Clough carries a deep meaning for CLUE, as founder David VanZandt died while researching the wreck site in June 2024.
To share the discovery and honor VanZandt, NMGL has debuted a temporary micro-exhibit showcasing the ship and the identification process. The exhibit opened today and will be on view through April 16.
“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’s 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.”
Museum admission, which includes access to the exhibit, is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and $8 for youth. For more information, visit nmgl.org.
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