Storms result in the Sea Wing disaster…
July 1890 CE
Based in Diamond Bluff, Wisconsin, the Sea Wing is jointly owned by Captain David Niles Wethern and Mel Sparks operating as the Diamond Jo Line.
Normally used for moving lumber and commodities along the Mississippi river, the ship is also used for excursions as an extra source of income.
During July 1890 a Sunday excursion had been planned from Red Wing, Minnesota to Lake City, Minnesota.
The First Regiment of the Minnesota National Guard's summertime encampment named Camp Lake View had been scheduled to be held at this time.
After leaving Red Wing the ship had stopped at Frontenac, Minnesota and then proceeded on to her destination arriving around 11:30 am that morning.
The passengers had disembarked and spent their time picnicking, visiting the troops and listening to a band concert later in the day.
The return trip was scheduled to leave between 5 - 6 pm that evening but the national guard had scheduled a dress parade for the visitors.
Captain Wethern had agreed to delay the departure, after being asked by a number of passengers, until after the parade at 7 pm.
Shortly after the parade began the weather conditions changed and began to look ominous.
Captain Wethern began sounding the ship's whistle to recall the passengers and by 8 pm the passengers were on board and the ship was made ready to leave.
The captain had been advised to delay his departure by other river men, because they felt that a storm was heading their way, but Captain Wethern felt that the weather looked like it was clearing.
The Sea Wing left port and headed on to its first stop at Lake City.
A half hour into the voyage Captain Wethern noticed a gale heading toward them from the Minnesota shore.
He turned the Sea Wing to meet the storm but a large wave struck the ship tilting it on a forty-five angle.
While still tilted the ship is struck by strong winds that capsize the ship.
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