Identification & Site Information

• Name: America
• Former Names: None
• Official Number: 105244 or 105337* (see details below)
• Date Built and Launched: 1873
• Builder: Arch Muir, Port Huron, Michigan
• Vessel Type: Wooden Schooner-Barge, 3-Masted
• Hull Material: Wood
• Measurements: Length: 137 ft (41.8 m) Beam: 26 ft (7.9 m) Depth: 12 ft (3.7 m)
• Gross Tonnage: 341 tons
• Date Lost: September 28, 1880
• Place of Loss: 9 miles north of Two Rivers, Wisconsin
• Lake: Lake Michigan
• Type of Loss: Collision
• Loss of Life: None
• Cargo at Time of Loss: Light

Vessel Type & Description

The America was a wooden, three-masted Schooner-Barge built in 1873 by Arch Muir in Port Huron, Michigan. Designed for bulk freight transport, Schooner-barges like the America were commonly used in the Great Lakes during the late 19th century, often operating as part of towing fleets pulled by steam tugs.

Schooner-barges were versatile, capable of carrying lumber, coal, stone, and grain, but were often towed when not under sail to save on fuel and increase cargo capacity. The America’s Gross Tonnage of 341 indicates she was a medium-sized vessel for the period, suited for coastal and cross-lake trade routes.

History

The America operated primarily in Lake Michigan, running cargo between ports like Chicago, Milwaukee, and Port Huron. By the late 1870’s, she was used as a Schooner-Barge, towed alongside or behind steam tugs as part of larger freight convoys.

Final Voyage & Loss

On September 28, 1880, the America was sailing light (without significant cargo) when she was involved in a collision 9 miles north of Two Rivers, Wisconsin.

Collision Details:

• The Tug A.W. Lawrence was towing two stone scows when, under unclear circumstances, the scows struck the America.
• The collision caused significant damage to the Hull, and the vessel began to leak heavily.
• Salvagers quickly attempted to tow the America to shore, but the damage was too severe, and the vessel sank before reaching safety.

Casualties:

• No lives were lost in the incident. The crew escaped safely, due to the proximity of the Tug and other vessels in the towing convoy.

Final Disposition

The America was declared a Total Loss after sinking in Lake Michigan due to the collision. The wreck became a local dive site due to its proximity to shore and the relative intactness of the submerged structure.

Official Number Discrepancy

There is some confusion about the America’s official number:

• The 1874 Merchant Vessels registry lists her as 105244, but an appendix in the same volume shows her as 105337.
• The 1875 edition lists two schooners out of Chicago with identical tonnage, each bearing one of the numbers.
• By the 1877 edition, only the 105244 designation appears, suggesting this was the final assigned number.

This confusion reflects the often inconsistent record-keeping practices of the era, especially for vessels that changed ownership or roles (e.g., from active Schooner to Barge).

Located By & Date Found

The wreck of the America is a known local dive site near Two Rivers, Wisconsin. Divers report that parts of the Hull and structural components are still visible, though the wooden construction has deteriorated over time.

NOTMARs & Advisories

Divers and mariners near Two Rivers should be aware of submerged wreckage in the area, including the America and other nearby shipwrecks. Consult local dive maps and navigational charts for the most up-to-date information.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Great Lakes Vessels Database – BGSU
• Wisconsin Shipwrecks Database
• Edward J. Dowling Collection, University of Detroit – Mercy

Conclusion

The America’s collision and sinking in 1880 highlights the risks associated with towed convoys on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. As a Schooner-Barge, the vessel was part of the evolving freight transportation system that combined sail and steam power to maximize cargo efficiency. The lack of fatalities speaks to the quick actions of the crew and salvagers, but the vessel was beyond saving. Today, the America serves as a popular dive site near Two Rivers, Wisconsin, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich maritime history.

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Keywords: America, Schooner-Barge, Two Rivers Shipwreck, Lake Michigan Collision, Great Lakes Freight Vessels

Categories: Great Lakes Schooners, Lake Michigan Shipwrecks, Maritime Collisions

Glossary Terms: Schooner-Barge, Collision, Towboat, Salvage Attempt, Total Loss