Schooner Barge Magnet – Identification & Site Information

Name: Magnet

Type: Wooden Schooner Barge (formerly a Tug and later a sidewheeler)

Length: 145 feet (44.2 meters)

Beam: 24 feet (7.3 meters)

Depth: 35 feet of freshwater (11 meters)

Tonnage: 217 tons (Schooner Barge configuration)

Year Built: 1856

Original Use: Log rafting Tug and salvage vessel

Final Location: Colchester Reef, Lake Erie

Coordinates: 41°52.87’N, 82°57.40’W

Vessel Type Description

The Magnet began its service in 1856 as a log rafting Tug operating between Saginaw, Michigan, and Port Colborne. Over its lifetime, the vessel underwent numerous reconstructions and adaptations, evolving into a sidewheeler used for salvage and wrecking purposes in 1863, and eventually into a Schooner Barge in 1890. These changes reflect the vessel’s durability and versatility during a time when such conversions were commonplace to meet changing economic and operational needs.

As a Schooner Barge, the Magnet was rigged for towing, primarily used in the bulk cargo trade on the Great Lakes. Its design prioritized capacity and towing efficiency over speed, making it an ideal vessel for the transport of lumber and other materials.

Chronological History

1.1856 – Construction: Built in East Saginaw, Michigan, and enrolled in Detroit as a log rafting Tug. Operated on Lake Erie and Lake Huron, supporting the burgeoning logging industry.

2.1863 – Reconstruction: Converted into a Sidewheel Steamer for salvage and wrecking duties. Gained a reputation for being a reliable salvage vessel, recovering stranded ships and cargoes.

3.Incidents: The Magnet experienced numerous mishaps, including collisions and sinkings. Despite these challenges, it was consistently salvaged and repaired, reflecting the value placed on the vessel’s utility.

4.1890 – Conversion to Schooner Barge: Refitted in Port Huron, Michigan, and adapted for service as a Schooner Barge. This marked its transition into bulk cargo transportation.

5.September 12, 1900 – Final Voyage: Sank off Colchester Reef in Lake Erie during a storm. The crew, including Captain George E. Bennett, his wife, and two crew members, were rescued by the Steamer Frank E. Kirby. The Schooner was lost after a harrowing struggle with the elements, and the wreck now lies near the reef at 35 feet (11 meters).

Final Disposition

The Magnet sank in Lake Erie after battling a fierce storm. The wreck lies in relatively shallow water near Colchester Reef, where it has become a point of interest for divers and maritime historians. The site features remnants of the Hull and associated wreckage, much of which may be buried in the sandy lakebed due to shifting sediment.

Wreck Site Information

•Location: Colchester Reef, Lake Erie

•Depth: 35 feet (11 meters)

•Accessibility: The shallow depth and proximity to shore make this an accessible site for recreational divers. Visibility can vary based on weather and sediment conditions.

•Features: The remains of the Hull, scattered wreckage, and metal components create a moderately dispersed dive site. Strong currents and seasonal vegetation may present challenges.

Noteworthy Features

•Historical Reconstruction: The Magnet’s ability to be repurposed multiple times highlights the ingenuity of 19th-century shipbuilders and owners.

•Rescue Account: The dramatic rescue by the Frank E. Kirby underscores the perilous nature of Great Lakes shipping during this period.

•Dual Identity: The existence of another vessel named Magnet adds an intriguing layer of complexity to its historical narrative.

Hazards

•Currents: Strong currents near Colchester Reef can complicate dives.

•Sediment Disturbance: Shifting sands may obscure or bury parts of the wreck.

•Sharp Objects: Metal components and debris scattered across the site pose risks to divers.

Resources & Links

1.Great Lakes Maritime Database – Historical records and accounts of the Magnet and similar vessels.

2.Shipwrecks of Lake Erie – Information on diving conditions and wreck exploration.

3.Historical Accounts – Buffalo Commercial Advertiser, Toledo Blade archives for contemporary coverage of incidents involving the Magnet.

Keywords

•Schooner Barge Magnet

•Colchester Reef

•Lake Erie Shipwrecks

•Frank E. Kirby Rescue

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes

Conclusion

The Magnet’s diverse history—spanning its roles as a Tug, sidewheeler, and Schooner Barge—exemplifies the adaptability required of vessels in the evolving economic landscape of the Great Lakes. Its final resting place at Colchester Reef stands as a testament to the challenges faced by mariners in the region and provides a unique exploration opportunity for divers and historians alike.