Identification & Site Information:
- Name(s): Dan Hayes
- Registry: United States
- Official Number: 35041
- Vessel Type: Scow Schooner
- Year Built: 1868
- Year Sank: 1902
- Hull Material: Wood
- Masts: Not documented
- Engines: None
Dimensions:
- Length: 112 ft (34.1 m)
- Width: 24 ft (7.3 m)
- Depth: 7 ft (2.1 m)
Vessel Type
The Dan Hayes was a scow Schooner, a flat-bottomed sailing vessel designed for carrying bulk goods on the Great Lakes. The scow design allowed for easier navigation in shallow waters and made these vessels ideal for transporting heavy cargo such as lumber.
Description
Built in 1868, the Dan Hayes served for over three decades, primarily transporting lumber and other bulk materials. Scow schooners like the Dan Hayes were a common sight on the Great Lakes during the 19th century, valued for their practicality and simplicity.
In 1902, the vessel sank in McCracken’s Cove, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. The exact circumstances of the sinking are unclear, but the vessel was nearing the end of its service life, and structural failure or adverse weather may have contributed to its loss.
Final Dispositions
The wreck of the Dan Hayes lies in 8 ft (2.4 m) of water in Lake Michigan, within McCracken’s Cove near Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
• The remains consist of the lower portion of the wooden Hull.
• Both the port and starboard sides are splayed out, lying flat on the sandy bottom.
• The wreck provides an excellent example of 19th-century scow Schooner construction, showcasing the design’s practicality and its role in Great Lakes commerce.
Located By & Date Found
The wreck has been identified and documented by organizations dedicated to preserving Wisconsin’s rich maritime history. Its location in shallow water makes it accessible for study and exploration.
NOTMARs & Advisories
The shallow depth of the wreck site makes it ideal for snorkelers and beginner divers. Visitors should take care not to disturb the fragile remains and adhere to local regulations for preserving historic shipwrecks.
Resources & Links
3D Model – Dan Hayes
Keywords, Categories, Glossary
Keywords: Dan Hayes, Scow Schooner, Lake Michigan Shipwrecks, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin Shipwrecks
Categories: Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime History, Scow Schooners
Glossary: Scow, Starboard, Port, Splayed Hull, Bulk Cargo
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