Shipwreck Report: PERSIAN

Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Name: PERSIAN

•Vessel Type: Propeller Steamer

•Built: July 18, 1874, Cleveland, Ohio

•Length: 250 feet (76.2 meters)

•Depth at Wreck Site: 195 feet (66 meters)

•Location: Long Point, Lake Erie

•Coordinates: 42°33.78179’ N, 54°696’ W

Vessel Description

The PERSIAN was a groundbreaking bulk freighter, launched in 1874 as the largest vessel of its kind, specifically designed for Lake Superior trade. Its construction was a testament to the growing importance of large freighters for carrying significant cargoes of iron ore, wheat, and other commodities.

•Key Specifications:

•Length: 250 feet

•Construction: Wooden Hull

•Notable Features: Large cargo holds for bulk commodities

On its maiden voyage in August 1874, the PERSIAN carried a record-breaking 1,316 gross tons of iron ore from Marquette to Cleveland. In November of the same year, it set another record by transporting 63,194 bushels of wheat to Buffalo, highlighting its pivotal role in the Great Lakes shipping industry.

Incident History

On the evening of August 26, 1875, tragedy struck the PERSIAN as a fire broke out near the coal bunkers at approximately 9:30 PM. The blaze quickly spread throughout the vessel despite desperate attempts by the crew to extinguish it. Pumps and hoses proved ineffective, and the crew and passengers were forced to abandon ship.

•Rescue Efforts:

•Survivors were picked up by the Schooner MONTANA and the Tug MERRICK.

•The EMPIRE STATE arrived and attempted to save the vessel by dousing the flames and towing it to safety. However, the efforts were futile.

The fire ultimately consumed the PERSIAN, which sank in 30 fathoms (195 feet) of water, approximately 8 miles from Long Point, Lake Erie.

Final Disposition

•Hull Condition: The PERSIAN was heavily damaged by fire and sank rapidly.

•Insurance Status: The Hull was uninsured, which led to significant financial losses for its owners.

•Salvage Discussions: There were considerations to raise the vessel’s boilers and engine, but it is unclear whether these efforts were undertaken.

Current Condition & Dive Information

•Depth: 195 feet (66 meters).

•Visibility: Conditions in Lake Erie can vary but are generally moderate to low at this depth.

•Accessibility: The depth makes the wreck accessible to technical divers with appropriate training and equipment.

The PERSIAN’s remains lie as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by early bulk freighters on the Great Lakes. Divers can expect to find significant portions of the Hull and potentially remnants of its cargo-handling equipment.

Historical Significance

The PERSIAN was a pioneer in bulk freighter design, breaking cargo capacity records during its brief operational period. Its loss in 1875 marked one of the early tragedies of large-scale shipping on the Great Lakes and underscored the inherent dangers of transporting goods over inland seas.

Tags

#PERSIAN #GreatLakesShipwrecks #LakeErie #LongPoint #BulkFreighter #MaritimeHistory #GreatLakesShipping

Resources & References

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive accounts of vessels like the PERSIAN.

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: For detailed shipwreck listings.

•Great Lakes Ships Database: Archive of Great Lakes vessel history and wrecks.

Conclusion

The PERSIAN represents a significant chapter in Great Lakes maritime history. From its innovative design and record-breaking voyages to its untimely loss, the vessel’s story reflects the challenges faced by early freighters and their crews. Today, the wreck of the PERSIAN remains a haunting yet fascinating dive site for those exploring the depths of Lake Erie.