The Mary Celeste was a merchant ship discovered adrift and deserted in the Atlantic on December 4, 1872. It was found under partial sail, with ample provisions, cargo intact and personal effects of the crew undisturbed. Not a soul on board was ever seen or heard from again. Truly, a ghost ship.
How is the tale of the Mary Celeste relevant to Clark Lake? Every so often a raft or boat is found drifting. No one on board – just silently lurking. Recently Fritz Wilger reported a ghost raft floating aimlessly near the Beach and Boat Club. It was 12:30 am, and with no running lights, the unattended raft could pose a hazard to someone on the lake at that hour. Fritz’s neighbors and friends took action by corralling and anchoring it.
When this happens, how do you find the owner? The Columbia Charter Township Police can do that. Chief Jay Niles says to give them the MC or hull number, and the current location. With that, the police will notify the owner, acting as the lake’s ghostbusters. Reach the police at (517) 592-3122.
Chief Jay Niles on patrol on Hayes Drive Saturday afternoon
The police got this raft back to its owner. The Chief said they have done this before, and will continue to step up as necessary.
Great Job Rick and Jay!!
When I was young a neighbor borrowed our mini raft to use when he was fishing. He didnt tie it up when he finished. We spent the entire day looking for that little raft that Dad made us. Never found it.