Last Document Surrendered Chicago 11/27/1888: "Vessel Lost"
"November 24, 1887. The Solon H. Johnson, loaded with lumber, left Muskegan, Michigan and headed for Chicago, towing a scow loaded with bricks. Heavy seas forced her to try and bring the scow to anchor some 4 miles off Kenosha. In attempting such, the tow-line fouled the Johnson's wheel, disabling her. Both boats were subsequently driven upon the shore some 9 miles south of Kenosha. The life-saving crew from Kenosha successfully saved both crews. Although the scow was floated and towed to Chicago, the Johnson and her cargo proved a total loss."