Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: J.O. THAYER
• Former Names: Later renamed MIKE CORRY (1883)
• Official Number: 75730
• Type at Loss: Schooner, Wood
• Builder: Unknown, built in Two Rivers, Wisconsin
• Year Built: 1874
• Original Owner: J. Bertschy, Sheboygan, Wisconsin
• Specifications: Length: 154 ft (46.94 m) Beam: 29 ft (8.84 m) Depth: 11 ft (3.35 m)
• Gross Tonnage: 380 tons
• Net Tonnage: 361 tons
• Date Lost: November 18, 1881
• Cause: Storm
• Place of Loss: Near Sheboygan, Wisconsin
• Waterbody: Lake Michigan
• Cargo: Coal
• Loss of Life: None (8 crew members survived)

Vessel Type

The J.O. THAYER was a large wooden Schooner, designed primarily for hauling bulk cargo, particularly coal, across the Great Lakes. Vessels of this type were common in the late 19th century, known for their sturdy hulls and ability to transport heavy loads efficiently between industrial ports in the U.S. and Canada.

Description

Constructed in 1874 in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, the J.O. THAYER measured 154 feet in length with a 29-foot beam, making her a significant vessel for her time. She was built to withstand the rigours of the Great Lakes, transporting coal—a key resource during the industrial boom of the late 19th century.

Owned by J. Bertschy of Sheboygan, she was part of a fleet of schooners critical to the economic development of cities around Lake Michigan. Her robust construction allowed her to operate in various weather conditions, although, like many wooden vessels, she remained vulnerable to severe storms.

History

The J.O. THAYER operated during a dynamic period in Great Lakes maritime history, when schooners were gradually being replaced by steam-powered vessels. However, their cost-efficiency and versatility ensured their continued use for decades, particularly for carrying coal, lumber, grain, and other bulk commodities.

She frequently sailed between coal ports in the eastern Great Lakes and industrial hubs along Lake Michigan, including Sheboygan, Milwaukee, and Chicago. Her role in transporting coal was vital, supporting industries and railroads that relied heavily on this resource.

Final Voyage & Loss

On November 18, 1881, the J.O. THAYER encountered a severe storm while navigating near Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Battling strong winds and heavy waves, the Schooner stranded on a sandy bar, sustaining heavy damage to her Hull. Despite the crew’s efforts, she could not be freed, and multiple salvage attempts failed to dislodge her.

Although declared a Total Loss after these unsuccessful efforts, the Schooner’s story didn’t end there. In 1882, she was recovered from the wreck site, reflecting the era’s determination to salvage valuable vessels. By 1883, she was fully Rebuilt and renamed the MIKE CORRY, extending her life on the Great Lakes.

Later History as MIKE CORRY

After her Rebuild, the vessel continued operations under her new name. The MIKE CORRY remained active in Great Lakes shipping for several decades. Reports suggest she may have met her final fate in Georgian Bay, either in 1916 (July 16) or 1919, though details about her ultimate loss remain unclear.

Final Disposition

• Declared a Total Loss: November 18, 1881 (initially)
• Cause of Loss: Storm and grounding on a sandbar
• Location: Near Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Lake Michigan
• Coordinates: Not officially recorded
• Recovery: Recovered and Rebuilt as MIKE CORRY in 1883
• Located By & Date Found
• Status: No known modern wreck discovery reported
• Approximate Location: Georgian Bay
• Coordinates: Unknown
• Given that she was recovered and Rebuilt, no substantial wreck remains would be expected at her original loss site.

NOTMARs & Advisories

• Obstructions: None currently recorded
• Advisories: None reported
• Since the vessel was recovered shortly after her loss, she would not have posed a long-term navigational hazard.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Great Lakes Vessels Database
• David Swayze’s Shipwreck File
• •Library and Archives Canada

Conclusion

The J.O. THAYER’s story exemplifies the resilience and resourcefulness of Great Lakes mariners and shipowners during the late 19th century. Although declared a Total Loss after a violent storm, she was salvaged and given a new life as the MIKE CORRY, showcasing the importance of salvage operations in extending the service life of valuable vessels.

Her ultimate fate remains somewhat mysterious, with conflicting reports about her final loss in Georgian Bay. Nevertheless, her history offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of Great Lakes shipping, from the dominance of schooners to the rise of steam-powered vessels.