Here is the detailed and structured report for the Lotta Bernard:

LOTTA BERNARD

Type: Wooden Sidewheel Steamer

Lengths: 125 ft (38.1 m)

Beam: 20 ft (6.1 m)

Depth: 7 ft (2.1 m)

Gross Tonnage: 147 tons (190 old measure)

Location: Near Encampment Island, Lake Superior

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Name: Lotta Bernard

• Builder: W & L Jackson, Port Clinton, Ohio

• Year Built: 1869

• Fitted Out: Sandusky, Ohio

• Ownership: E. Ingalls & Co., Duluth, Minnesota

• Master: Captain Michael Norris

HISTORY

Construction and Purpose:

The Lotta Bernard was a wooden Sidewheel Steamer, known as a “rabbit” freighter for its shallow Draft and limited speed of 4 mph. It was primarily used for transporting general merchandise across the Great Lakes.

Incidents Prior to Final Loss:

1. November 1871:

• Torn from a dock during a storm in Grand Marais, Minnesota.

• Damage included the Hull, rudder, Paddlewheel, and boiler.

• Refloated and taken to Duluth for repairs.

2. November 1872:

• Ran aground west of the piers in Ontonagon, Michigan, due to a snowstorm.

• Damage to rudder chains.

• Released and taken for repairs.

Final Voyage:

• Date: October 29, 1874

• Route: Silver Islet to Duluth, Lake Superior.

• Incident:

• Encountered a severe storm while carrying general merchandise.

• Captain Michael Norris attempted to reach Duluth by running the vessel at full steam.

• As the ship began to founder, the captain directed it into the shallows near Encampment Island, approximately 6 miles below Encampment River.

• The crew escaped in a small boat and reached shore.

• Tragically, three crew members perished from exposure while trekking through the desolate area to find help.

FINAL DISPOSITION

• Cause of Loss: Severe storm and foundering.

• Fate of the Vessel:

• Stranded in shallow waters near Encampment Island.

• Broke apart after being Abandoned.

SIGNIFICANCE

The Lotta Bernard serves as a testament to the perils of early Great Lakes shipping. Its history reflects the challenges faced by “rabbit” freighters, particularly during harsh weather conditions. Despite multiple incidents and repairs, the vessel succumbed to the unforgiving waters of Lake Superior. The loss of three crew members underscores the dangers faced by sailors navigating these treacherous routes.

REFERENCES & LINKS

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• David Swayze Shipwreck File

• Historical newspaper archives from Duluth and surrounding regions.

This structured account ensures a comprehensive record of the Lotta Bernard’s history and legacy.