Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Name: Hickory Stick

•Type: Dredge

•Year Built: 1944

•Dimensions: Length: 110 feet (33.5 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 260 tons

•Official Number: 267265

•Final Location: Vermilion, OH, Lake Erie

•Coordinates: 41°32.301′ N, 82°06.236′ W

•Depth: 55 feet (17 meters)

Vessel Type Description

The Hickory Stick was a Dredge, a specialized vessel designed for excavation and maintaining navigational channels by removing sediment, debris, and other materials from the lakebed. Built in 1944, the Hickory Stick played a crucial role in maintaining navigable waterways in the Great Lakes region, reflecting its importance in supporting maritime trade and transportation.

History

The Hickory Stick was constructed during World War II, a period of intense industrial activity, reflecting the demand for functional vessels to maintain and improve critical waterways. The vessel served on Lake Erie, supporting dredging operations vital to maritime commerce and the safe passage of ships.

However, on November 29, 1958, the Dredge faced a fierce storm while north of Avon Point, Ohio. Despite its robust construction, the vessel was unable to withstand the storm’s intensity, leading to its destruction. The incident resulted in a Total Loss, marking the Hickory Stick’s end as an operational vessel.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the Hickory Stick lies approximately 55 feet (17 meters) underwater in Lake Erie, near Vermilion, Ohio. Although it was completely destroyed in the storm, its remains now rest on the lakebed, offering a point of interest for divers and maritime historians.

NOTMARs & Advisories

•Obstructions: Mariners and divers should be aware of the wreck’s presence, as it may pose hazards in the area.

•Marking: The site is unmarked, but its coordinates provide a precise location for those seeking the wreck.

Located By & Date

The location of the Hickory Stick has been documented in U.S. Vessel Losses on the Great Lakes and is included in the 1960 Merchant Vessel List of the U.S., which preserves the history of maritime incidents.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the Hickory Stick lies at a moderate depth of 55 feet (17 meters), making it accessible to divers with basic training. Due to its destruction in the storm, the site is likely fragmented, consisting of scattered debris. Visibility and exploration conditions can vary depending on Lake Erie’s water conditions.

Resources & Links

•Great Lakes Ships Database: Information about vessels and shipwrecks on the Great Lakes.

•U.S. Vessel Loss Records: Details about maritime incidents.

•Dive Lake Erie: Resources for divers interested in exploring Lake Erie wrecks.

Conclusion

The loss of the Hickory Stick on Lake Erie is a somber reminder of the challenges faced by vessels operating on the Great Lakes, particularly during storms. While it served as a vital asset in maintaining navigational channels, its final resting place now contributes to the rich tapestry of Lake Erie’s maritime history. The wreck site offers an opportunity for exploration and remembrance, shedding light on the vital role dredges like the Hickory Stick played in Great Lakes commerce.

Keywords

•Hickory Stick

•Dredge

•Vermilion, OH

•Lake Erie Shipwreck

•Great Lakes Maritime History

•1944 Vessel

•U.S. Vessel Losses

•Storm Wrecks