Shipwreck Profile: Success
Identification & Site Information
- Name(s): Success
- Registry: U.S.
- Official Number: 115376
- Vessel Type: Scow Schooner
- Year Built: 1875
- Year Sank: 1896
- Hull Material: Wood
- Masts: Not specified
- Engines: None (sail-powered vessel)
- Dimensions
- Length: 103 ft (31.39 m)
- Width: 27 ft (8.23 m)
- Depth: 7 ft (2.13 m)
- GPS Coordinates N 44°° 55.02048′ W 087° 12.17688′
Vessel History
The Success was a scow Schooner, a type of flat-bottomed sailing vessel with broad beams designed for transporting heavy cargoes such as lumber, stone, and other bulk materials. These vessels were vital to the Great Lakes’ economy during the 19th century, particularly in Wisconsin, where the lumber industry flourished.
The Success met its end in 1896, sinking near Whitefish Dunes State Park in Lake Michigan. Scow schooners, though robust, were susceptible to storms and other maritime hazards due to their utilitarian design and limited seaworthiness in rough conditions.
Links and Resources
3D Model – Success
Scow-Schooner Success by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab
Wreck Site Information
• Lake: Lake Michigan
• State/Province: Wisconsin
• Depth: 8 ft (2.44 m)
• GPS Coordinates: N 44° 55.02048′, W 087° 12.17688′
• Site Description:
The wreck of the Success lies approximately 500 ft (152 m) south of Whitefish Dunes State Park, in shallow water.
• As of 2019, much of the wreck is buried beneath shifting sands.
• When visible, the structure offers insights into the construction and design of scow schooners, particularly their flat-bottomed hulls optimized for carrying heavy loads in shallow waters.
Diving Notes & Advisories
• Depth Consideration:
At a depth of 8 ft (2.44 m), the wreck is accessible to snorkelers and recreational divers.
• Visibility:
Visibility is often affected by shifting sands and weather conditions, which may obscure parts of the wreck.
• Preservation Status:
The site is protected under Wisconsin law. Divers and snorkelers are encouraged to observe without disturbing the wreck.
Site Significance
The wreck of the Success provides an opportunity to study the construction and operation of scow schooners, a once-common but now rare vessel type on the Great Lakes. Its location near Whitefish Dunes State Park makes it accessible for educational and recreational exploration.
Keywords:
Success shipwreck, Lake Michigan scow schooners, Wisconsin maritime history, Great Lakes shipwrecks, shallow wreck sites.
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