Fish Creek, Wis. (September 21, 2023) – The Sinking of the Erie L. Hackley is considered the largest single sea disaster in the history of Green Bay waters. Join the Gibraltar Historical Society on October 3rd, the 120th anniversary of this tragedy, for the last Gibraltar Talks for the 2023 season.
They will tell the story and numerous accounts of the survivors and victims. Many residents are joining in to bring this tragedy to life. The unending story continues to unfold with new information and discoveries. This loss affected all of Fish Creek, Gibraltar, and neighboring communities as people mourned the loss of eleven aboard.
A simple local steamship, the Erie L. Hackle owned by. the Fish Creek Transportation Co, is where the story begins. Ferrying freight and passengers across Green Bay waters was the major means of transportation long before roads and highways. On the morning of October 3rd, the Hackley left the port of Sturgeon Bay enroute to Menominee, Michigan. It had been a rough year on the bay, many old-timers related that there were few calm boating days. In 1903, 20 steamship lines operated regular routes on the Bay, and Hackley‘s service was in demand. This day was no exception; the waters were rough. The captain chose to complete the “leg” from Menominee to Egg Harbor, believing he would make port well before the predicted squall from the Northeast
He certainly never considered this his last voyage, . . . nor did he “make way” much past Green Island.
The loss was significant; eleven persons perished; and only eight survived fighting for their lives while clinging to wreckage. The accounts will give information on eyewitness stories, the lives of these individuals, and how they affected this community going forward. When discussing Fish Creek’s past, we often use this incident as a time stamp in history.
This Gibraltar Talks will be interesting and informative for those who want to know more about Fish Creek families, the buildings, transportation, and the most notable shipwreck. Gibraltar Historical Society has tied all the stories, documentation, and research together to tell the most accurate account of this historic event.
Many of these names may sound familiar: Thorp’s, Barringer’s, Vorous, Rowin, Blakefield, Hansen, LeClaire, Pelkey, Robertoy, Haltug, Vincent, and Nelson. Some families felt cursed for decades as it created enduring hardship.
You may also have something to share. Please bring photos or a family connection.
Location: Gibraltar’s Old Town Hall 4167 Maple Street, Fish Creek, WI
Date: October 3, 2023, 7pm
Presented by Gibraltar Historical Association, a non-profit sharing history with the community and visitors. Contact: noblehousefc@gmail.com or 920-868-2091. Facebook: Gibraltar Historical Association.
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