Shipwreck Profile: Storm Spirit

Identification & Site Information

• Name(s): Storm Spirit
• Registry: U.S.
• Vessel Type: Schooner
• Year Built: 1856
• Year Sank: 1864
• Hull Material: Wood
• Engines: None (sail-powered vessel)
• Dimensions
• Length: 117 ft (35.66 m)
• Width: 26 ft (7.92 m)
• Depth (Wreck Site): 10 ft (3.05 m)

Vessel History

The Storm Spirit was a wooden Schooner constructed in 1856. Schooners like the Storm Spirit were essential workhorses of the Great Lakes, primarily transporting lumber, coal, and other bulk goods.

The Schooner sank in 1864 on Lake Huron under circumstances likely related to the harsh weather and challenging navigation conditions prevalent in the region during the 19th century. The Storm Spirit represents an era when wooden sailing vessels were the backbone of Great Lakes commerce.

For a detailed history:

• Great Lakes Historical Society Record
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes Archive
• 3DShipwrecks – Storm Spirit

3D Model – Storm Spirit

Storm Spirit by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Wreck Site Information

• Lake: Lake Huron

• State/Province: Michigan

• Depth: 95 ft (28.96 m)

• GPS Coordinates: 43° 29.016′ N, 082° 28.233′ W

• Site Description:

The wreck of the Storm Spirit lies at a depth of 95 ft (28.96 m), partially disarticulated, with notable features:

• Starboard Side: Deeply buried in the lakebed, reflecting heavy sedimentation over time.

• Port Side: Broken off and lying beside the Hull.

• Bow: Intact on the port side, with a boom leaning against it.

• Unique Construction: The wooden Hogging Arches embedded in the Hull are noteworthy, curving both upward and downward, which was uncommon for ships built in 1856.

• Artifacts Present:

• Broken Windlass.

• Two anchors.

• Centerboard.

• Capstan and winch.

• Stove, indicative of the crew’s living quarters and daily operations.

Diving Notes & Advisories

• Depth Consideration:

The wreck lies at 95 ft (28.96 m), making it suitable for advanced recreational divers with deep diving certification.

• Visibility:

Visibility can vary depending on weather and lake conditions but is generally decent for Lake Huron wrecks.

• Preservation Status:

The site is protected, and divers are urged to leave artifacts undisturbed to maintain its historical integrity.

Notable Artifacts on Site

• Wooden Hogging Arches in the Hull.

• Intact port side bow with a leaning boom.

• Broken Windlass and two anchors.

• Centereboard and winch.

• Stove, likely from the crew’s living area.

Keywords:

Storm Spirit shipwreck, Lake Huron schooners, 19th-century sailing vessels, Great Lakes maritime history, Hogging Arches, advanced diving wrecks.