Shipwreck Report: Richard Winslow

Identification & Site Information

• Name(s): Richard Winslow
• Registry: U.S.
• Official Number: 110003
• Vessel Type: Schooner
• Year Built: 1871
• Year Sank: 1898
• Hull Material: Wood
• Engines: None
• Dimensions
• Length: 217 ft (66.14 m)
• Width: 36 ft (10.97 m)
• Depth: 14 ft (4.27 m)

Vessel History

The Richard Winslow was a large wooden Schooner built in 1871, designed to carry heavy bulk cargoes such as iron ore, grain, and coal. Schooners like the Winslow were essential to Great Lakes commerce during the 19th century, offering cost-effective and reliable transport for materials critical to the region’s industrial development.

The vessel sank in 1898 in Lake Michigan. After its sinking, the wreck was dynamited to remove it as a navigational hazard, a common practice during this era. Despite the damage caused by the explosions, significant portions of the vessel and artifacts remain at the wreck site, providing valuable insights into 19th-century Schooner construction and operation.

For further historical information:

• Great Lakes Historical Society Record
• 3DShipwrecks – Richard Winslow

3D Model – Richard Winslow

Winslow by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Wreck Site Information

• Lake: Lake Michigan
• State/Province: Michigan
• Depth: 30 ft (9.14 m)
• GPS Coordinates: 45° 50.911′ N, 85° 09.916′ W

Site Description:

The Richard Winslow lies flattened in shallow water, heavily impacted by dynamiting. Despite this, many features are still visible:

• Structural Features:

• Bottom of the Ship: Covered in iron ore, remnants of the cargo it was carrying.

• Starboard Side: Largely intact, with notable features such as:

• Knees: Structural braces visible on the wreck.

• Pin Rails: Used for securing rigging.

• Bulwark: Most of the ship’s side is still extant.

• Keelson: Clearly visible on the bottom, along with at least one mast step, where the mast was secured.

• Artifacts and Equipment:

• Wire Rigging: Scattered across the site.

• Small Boiler: Likely used for auxiliary tasks onboard.

• Hawse Pipes: Channels for anchor chains to pass through the Hull.

• Bitts: Structural posts used for securing mooring lines.

Diving Notes & Advisories

• Depth Consideration:

At a depth of 30 ft (9.14 m), the wreck is accessible to snorkelers and recreational divers.

• Visibility:

Visibility can vary depending on weather and sediment conditions, though the shallow depth often provides decent clarity.

• Preservation Status:

The wreck is part of Michigan’s underwater heritage and is protected. Divers are encouraged to observe but not disturb the site or remove artifacts.

Site Significance

The Richard Winslow provides an intriguing look at the design and operation of large Great Lakes schooners. Despite being dynamited, its structural remnants and artifacts offer valuable insights into 19th-century ship construction and cargo operations, particularly for vessels transporting bulk materials like iron ore.

Its shallow location makes it accessible for divers and snorkelers, contributing to its importance as an educational and recreational site within Michigan’s maritime history.

Keywords:

Richard Winslow shipwreck, Lake Michigan schooners, iron ore schooners, Great Lakes maritime history, shallow wreck dives, 19th-century sailing vessels.