CLUE has worked since 2001 to locate and identify shipwrecks in Lake Erie. The group found the story of the Clough in old newspapers more than one decade ago. Since then, CLUE had searched for the vessel, scanning nearly 248 miles on their boats, until it was discovered in 2022. 

With support from the museum, the group conducted multiple site visits, created a detailed site map and completed historical research before formally identifying the vessel. 

The wreck site is associated with the June 2024 death of CLUE founder David VanZandt. Following his passing, CLUE and the museum continued research and documentation efforts, ultimately confirming the vessel’s identity in 2025. 

The Clough was built in 1867 in Lorain, Ohio. The 125-foot vessel had a breadth of 26.5 feet and was classified as a bark, with square sails on the foremast and schooner sails on the main and mizzen masts. Owned by quarry operator Baxter Clough from Amherst, Ohio, the ship hauled stone for Great Lakes commerce. 

The vessel sank on Sept. 15, 1868, one year after its launch, while transporting stone. According to Carrie Sowden, director of archaeology and research at the National Museum of the Great Lakes, the vessel appears to be fairly intact up to the deck. Most of the destruction is at the stern where the aft cabin was likely ripped off while the Clough was sinking. Sowden said there are several features that remain including anchors, windlass, a piece of the mizzen mast and the wheel.  

CLUE divers recorded the discovery of the Clough. The video is courtesy of the Cleveland Underwater Explorers.

The temporary exhibit will highlight the Clough’s history and the process used to identify the wreck. It will also outline CLUE’s ongoing work to document shipwrecks in Lake Erie. 

Feature photo: The wheel of the Clough was found sitting on the stern deck. Photo courtesy of Jack Papes