SHIPWRECK REPORT: REINDEER

IDENTIFICATION & VESSEL INFORMATION

• Name: Reindeer
• Type: Two-masted Schooner
• Location: Mouth of the Black River, Sackets Harbour, New York, USA
• Material: Likely wood (typical of schooners from the 19th century)
• Construction Date: 19th century (exact year unknown)
• Dimensions: Not documented

HISTORY & SIGNIFICANCE

Service: The Schooner Reindeer operated as a cargo vessel on the Great Lakes, specifically Lake Ontario. It transported various goods between regional ports and may have extended its trade routes along the St. Lawrence River. Schooners like the Reindeer were integral to the economic and logistical development of the Great Lakes region during the 1800s.

Demise: The Reindeer met its end near the mouth of the Black River, close to Lake Ontario in Sackets Harbour. While exact details of its sinking are unavailable, the wreck may have been caused by typical Great Lakes hazards, such as:

• Severe storms
• Shifting cargo
• Collisions with other vessels or underwater hazards

Historical Context:

Sackets Harbor: Played a vital role in maritime activity during the War of 1812 as a shipbuilding and naval base. Continued as a significant commercial and maritime hub throughout the 19th century. The Reindeer wreck contributes to the region’s rich maritime history, illustrating the challenges faced by sailors on the Great Lakes during this period.

CURRENT CONDITION

Wreck Site: The remains of the Reindeer lie at the bottom of the Black River, near its confluence with Lake Ontario, within the historical area of Sackets Harbour. The site is submerged and may have deteriorated over time due to natural conditions and human activities.

Accessibility: The wreck is accessible to divers and underwater archaeologists. Visibility and condition of the site may vary depending on water levels and sediment.

SIGNIFICANCE

The Reindeer wreck is a valuable piece of underwater cultural heritage in the Great Lakes. It represents:

• 19th-Century Maritime Trade: A testament to the era’s schooners and their role in commerce.
• Maritime Risks: A reminder of the dangers faced by vessels navigating the unpredictable waters of Lake Ontario.
• Historical Connection to Sackets Harbor: Adds to the area’s historical significance as a maritime and military hub.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• David Swayze Shipwreck Database: Comprehensive records of Great Lakes shipwrecks
• Great Lakes Shipwreck Research: Great Lakes Shipwrecks
• NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries: NOAA Sanctuaries

CONCLUSION

The Reindeer wreck is a submerged historical asset near Sackets Harbour, New York, providing insights into the maritime heritage of Lake Ontario. Its location at the mouth of the Black River ties it to one of the most significant naval and commercial areas of the 19th century. While the Schooner lies in obscurity today, it remains a testament to the resilience of the sailors and the perils of Great Lakes navigation.

KEYWORDS #SchoonerReindeer #Shipwreck #LakeOntario #SacketsHarbor #MaritimeHistory #GreatLakes