The Clara
United States Supreme Court
102 U.S. 200, 26 L.Ed. 145 (1880)
- Written by Carolyn Strutton, JD
Facts
The Julia Newell was a ship that had anchored inside a harbor breakwater in order to shelter from an approaching storm. As the weather worsened, more ships sought safety inside the breakwater. More than 24 hours after the Julia Newell had anchored, overnight during a severe part of the storm, the Clara entered the breakwater and collided with the Julia Newell, causing the Julia Newell to sink. Despite the conditions and the crowded harbor, the Julia Newell had failed to post any watch onboard. The Clara had entered the harbor well manned, with lights and a proper lookout. The owners of the Julia Newell sued the Clara. A judgment was returned for the Clara because the Julia Newell failed to show any fault on the part of the Clara. The owners of the Julia Newell appealed.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (Swayne, J.)
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