Shipwreck Profile: St. Albans
Identification & Site Information
- Name(s): St. Albans
- Registry: U.S.
- Official Number: 23514
- Vessel Type: Steam Screw
- Year Built: 1868
- Year Sank: 1881
- Hull Material: Wood
- Engines: Single Expansion Steam Engine
Dimensions
- Length: 136 ft (41.45 m)
- Width: 26 ft (7.92 m)
- Depth: 11 ft (3.35 m)
Vessel History
The St. Albans was a Steam Screw Vessel built in 1868, serving primarily as a freighter on the Great Lakes. Steam screw vessels, powered by a single propeller and steam engine, were a technological advancement over Paddlewheel steamers, allowing greater efficiency and manoeuvrability in shipping bulk goods. The vessel’s wooden Hull and single-expansion engine were typical of its era.
In 1881, the St. Albans met its end on Lake Michigan. While details of the sinking are sparse, it is known that the ship went down with significant structural damage. No lives were reported lost during the sinking, but the incident underscores the hazards faced by early steamships navigating the Great Lakes’ often unpredictable waters.
The vessel’s history provides insights into the challenges of Great Lakes commerce during the 19th century, as steamships like the St. Albans played an essential role in transporting goods between burgeoning industrial centres.
Links and Resources
Wreck Site Information
• Lake: Lake Michigan
- State/Province: Wisconsin
- Depth: 165 ft (50.29 m)
- GPS Coordinates: 43° 03.992′ N, 087° 45.556′ W
Site Description:
The wreck of the St. Albans lies largely intact at a depth of 165 ft (50.29 m). The Hull below the main Deck remains in good condition, although the forward third of the Deck has collapsed. Significant structural elements such as the engine, boiler, rudder, capstans, and anchor Windlass are still present, providing valuable insights into the ship’s original construction and operation.
Diving Notes & Advisories
• Depth Consideration:
At 165 ft (50.29 m), the site is accessible only to advanced technical divers trained in deep wreck exploration.
• Visibility:
The depth and conditions in Lake Michigan may result in reduced Visibility; divers should prepare for cold water and possible currents.
• Preservation Status:
The wreck is a protected historical site. Divers are encouraged to observe but not disturb or remove artifacts.
Notable Artifacts on Site
• Engine and boiler.
• Rudder.
• Capstans.
• Anchor Windlass.
Keywords:
St. Albans shipwreck, Lake Michigan wrecks, Great Lakes steamships, 19th-century freighters, Wisconsin maritime history.
3D Model – St. Albans
St Albans by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab
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