The Wreck of the Finch: A Lake Erie Legacy

Identification & Site Information

•Name: Finch

•Type: Wooden Schooner

•Year Built: 1871

•Builder: Quebec City, Quebec

•Location: Lake Erie (exact coordinates undisclosed)

•Condition: Submerged wreck, accessible to divers

Vessel Type Description

The Finch was a wooden Schooner, a type of vessel commonly used in the 19th century for the transportation of bulk goods like grain, coal, and timber across the Great Lakes. With its robust design and efficient cargo capacity, the Finch was built to withstand the demands of Great Lakes navigation. Schooners like the Finch were vital to trade in the region, connecting cities and towns along these inland seas.

History

The Finch was launched in 1871 from the bustling Shipyards of Quebec City. Constructed during a peak period of Great Lakes shipping, it joined the ranks of hundreds of other schooners that served as the backbone of commerce in the region. The Finch likely carried a variety of goods, acting as a crucial link in the supply chain between the industrial centers and agricultural hubs of the Great Lakes region.

The Ill-Fated Voyage

The Finch’s life came to a tragic end during a violent storm on Lake Erie. Like many vessels of its time, the Finch was at the mercy of the elements, navigating without the benefit of modern forecasting or safety technologies. The storm overwhelmed the vessel, leading to its untimely sinking. While details of the crew’s fate remain uncertain, the Finch serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by mariners on the Great Lakes.

Final Disposition

The Finch lies on the lakebed of Lake Erie, its remains preserved by the cold, freshwater environment. The wreck serves as an underwater museum, attracting divers who explore its remnants to connect with a bygone era of maritime history.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the Finch is well-preserved, thanks to the protective conditions of Lake Erie’s depths. Divers visiting the site can observe its wooden framework, a testament to 19th-century shipbuilding techniques. The site is considered accessible for recreational divers, though conditions may vary depending on Visibility and water currents.

Significance of the Wreck

The Finch is more than a historical artifact; it is a symbol of the resilience and bravery of the Great Lakes maritime community. The wreck offers a poignant glimpse into the perils of 19th-century shipping and the ingenuity of early shipbuilders. For divers and maritime historians, the Finch provides an invaluable link to the region’s rich nautical heritage.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: For comprehensive records of ships and shipwrecks in the region.

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Details on the Finch and other Great Lakes vessels.

•Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Trail: A resource for exploring wrecks and maritime sites.

Conclusion

The Finch’s story is one of perseverance, tragedy, and historical significance. As it rests quietly beneath the waters of Lake Erie, the wreck continues to inspire curiosity and respect for the mariners who shaped the Great Lakes’ vibrant history. Whether explored by divers or studied through historical records, the Finch remains a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Great Lakes shipping.

Keywords:

Finch, Lake Erie, Wooden Schooner, 19th Century Shipwreck, Great Lakes History, Maritime Heritage, Diving Site.