The loss of the Commerce on Lake Erie, Canada, 6 May 1850

6th MAY 1850 – ON THIS DAY IN ROYAL WELCH HISTORY

The loss of the Commerce on Lake Erie, Canada, 6 May 1850

The Reserve Battalion, which was in Canada, was crossing Lake Erie in the steamer Commerce when it was involved in a collision with another vessel.
It resulted in the death of the assistant surgeon, three sergeants, two corporals, nineteen privates and eight wives.

The officers’ mess silver was also lost with the regimental baggage.