Identification & Site Information:

• Name(s): Northwestern
• Registry: United States
• Official Number: Not Available
• Vessel Type: Schooner
• Year Built: 1847
• Year Sank: 1850
• Hull Material: Wood
• Engines: None
• Dimensions:
• Length: 115 ft (35.1 m)
• Width: Not documented
• Depth: Not documented

Vessel Type

The Northwestern was a two-masted wooden Schooner, a common vessel type in the mid-19th century Great Lakes maritime trade. Schooners were primarily used to transport goods such as grain, lumber, and coal.

Description

Built in 1847, the Northwestern served as a cargo vessel on the Great Lakes during the early days of maritime commerce in the region. On October 9, 1850, the vessel sank in Lake Huron, likely due to a collision or severe weather. It represents one of the earlier shipwrecks in the Great Lakes’ recorded history, providing a snapshot of mid-19th century shipbuilding and operations.

Final Dispositions

The wreck of the Northwestern lies at a depth of 135 ft (41.1 m) in Lake Huron.

• The wreck is splayed out from the midship to the Stern, but the bow remains relatively intact.

• The transom is disarticulated and lies behind the main wreckage.

• Significant features on the site include:

• Bowsprit and stays, both intact.

• Two wooden stock anchors resting on the bottom below their original stowed positions.

• Anchor Windlass, anchor chains, and catheads (used for handling anchors).

• Centerboard trunk, which is heeled over, and the Centerboard winch.

• Masts and booms, although toppled and partially buried under wreckage.

• Rudder and tiller, both extant.

• Deadeyes, used for securing rigging.

Located By & Date Found

The wreck is well-documented by the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, emphasizing its historical significance as an early Great Lakes shipwreck. Its preservation offers a rare opportunity to study early Schooner construction and operation.

NOTMARs & Advisories

The site lies at a depth requiring advanced diving skills and technical equipment. Divers should exercise caution due to the fragility of the wreck and adhere to legal protections for underwater cultural heritage. Artifact removal is strictly prohibited.

Resources & Links

• Great Lakes Historical Society: Northwestern
• Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Northwestern
• 3DShipwrecks – Northwestern

3D Model – Northwestern

Northwestern by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Northwestern by Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary on Sketchfab

Keywords, Categories, Glossary

Keywords: Northwestern, Lake Huron Shipwrecks, Wooden Schooner, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Categories: Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime History, Early Schooners

Glossary: Bowsprit, Anchor Windlass, Centerboard Trunk, Deadeyes, Catheads, Transom