Schooner Two Charlies (1852)

Identification & Site Information

• Name: Two Charlies
• Other Names: None
• Official Number: 24145
• Vessel Type at Loss: Wooden Schooner
• Builder: James M. Jones, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Year Built & Launched: 1852
• Specifications: Length: 83 ft (25.3 m) Beam: 21 ft (6.4 m) Depth: 7 ft (2.1 m)
• Gross Tonnage: 87 GT
• Date Lost: October 9, 1876
• Location of Loss: Just south of the south pier, Grand Haven, Michigan, Lake Michigan
• Cause of Loss: Storm, Foundered
• Loss of Life: None reported
•  Cargo at Time of Loss: Unknown

Vessel Description & History

The Two Charlies was a small wooden Schooner, built in 1852 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, by James M. Jones. She was used for general cargo transport on the Great Lakes, likely carrying lumber, grain, or other bulk goods between Midwestern ports. She underwent significant repairs in 1857 and was Rebuilt during the winter of 1859-60, suggesting she was well-maintained and remained an active part of Great Lakes commerce for over two decades.

Final Voyage & Loss

On October 9, 1876, the Two Charlies was caught in a storm off Grand Haven, Michigan. Unable to withstand the rough weather, she sank just south of the south pier. Despite the vessel’s loss, no casualties were reported, and it is likely the crew was able to escape to safety.

Final Disposition & Salvage

No known salvage efforts or recovery.  Wreck status unknown, but given her wooden construction and location near a harbor, it is possible that remnants were either scattered or removed over time.

Located By & Date Found

No confirmed modern discovery of the wreck.

NOTMARs & Advisories

Grand Haven, Michigan, is a known area for shipwrecks due to storms and strong currents.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: http://www.maritimehistoryofthegreatlakes.ca
• Great Lakes Maritime Database (GLMD): https://greatlakeships.org
• David Swayze Shipwreck File: https://usace.contentdm.oclc.org
• Great Lakes Vessel Database (BGSU): https://greatlakes.bgsu.edu/vessels

Conclusion

The Two Charlies was a sturdy but aging Schooner that served on the Great Lakes for nearly 25 years before succumbing to a storm near Grand Haven in 1876. Though her wreck has not been found, her loss is part of the rich maritime history of Lake Michigan, where many small schooners met similar fates.