SHIPWRECK REPORT: BANNER

Identification & Site Information

•Name: BANNER

•Type: Wooden Schooner-Barge (originally built as a Brig)

•Built: 1847

•Builder: Lent, Conneaut, Ohio

•Official Number: 2155

•Dimensions:

•Length: 140 feet (42.7 meters)

•Beam: 28 feet (8.5 meters)

•Depth: 10.4 feet (3.2 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 288.84 tons

•Net Tonnage: 274.40 tons

•Final Voyage Date: November 8, 1888

•Location of Loss: Near Fish Point (Point Au Sable), Oscoda, Michigan, Lake Huron

•Depth: Varies; vessel pushed into deeper waters after initial grounding.

Vessel Type Description

The BANNER began its service as a Brig, a square-rigged, two-masted sailing vessel used primarily for cargo transport. Over its long career, it underwent multiple modifications to adapt to changing trade demands. In 1869-1870, it was converted into a three-masted Schooner, increasing its cargo capacity and navigational versatility. By 1876, the BANNER had transitioned to a Schooner-Barge, a common modification for aging schooners towed by steam-powered vessels to remain economically viable in the shipping industry.

History

Early Years (1847–1868)

The BANNER was launched in 1847 in Conneaut, Ohio, and began its career in the bustling trade network of the Great Lakes. Initially operating as a Brig, it transported bulk goods such as lumber, shingles, and grain.

•1851 Incident: Dismasted off Presqu’Isle in Lake Huron on September 28 and towed to Detroit for repairs.

•Repairs: Underwent significant overhauls in 1859 and 1869, likely to maintain its structural integrity and upgrade its capabilities.

Modifications & Continued Service (1869–1888)

In 1869-1870, the BANNER was converted to a three-masted Schooner, reflecting the growing demand for larger, more efficient cargo vessels. By 1876, it transitioned into a Schooner-Barge, adapting to the steam-powered era by becoming a towable vessel. The BANNERserved under various owners, with its operations focusing on transporting timber products like shingles and lath, essential commodities for the construction industry in the 19th century.

Final Voyage & Loss

On November 8, 1888, while carrying a cargo of lath and shingles, the BANNER encountered a fierce gale on Lake Huron. Driven onto a reef near Fish Point (Point Au Sable) close to Oscoda, Michigan, the vessel sustained severe damage. The crew managed to escape onto the rigging as the ship was pushed into deeper water and sank.

•Rescue Efforts: Local townspeople used a small Yawl to rescue the crew, who had spent the night lashed to the rigging to survive the storm. Fortunately, no lives were lost.

•Ownership: At the time of its sinking, the BANNER was owned by its master, Captain Webb of Mt. Clemens, Michigan.

Final Disposition

The BANNER was declared a Total Loss after its wrecking near Fish Point. The vessel broke apart as it was submerged in deeper waters following the gale. Its remains have not been extensively documented or located in modern surveys.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the wreck of the BANNER. However, the area near Fish Point is known for shoals and reefs, posing potential hazards for vessels.

Located By & Date

The precise location of the BANNER’s remains is not well-documented. The wreckage likely lies scattered in the deeper waters near Fish Point.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The condition of the BANNER’s wreck is unknown, given the lack of modern recovery or survey efforts. Its age and the circumstances of its sinking suggest that any remaining structure would be heavily deteriorated or buried.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Database of Great Lakes vessels and wrecks.

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Comprehensive records of shipwrecks in the region.

•Ships and Shipwrecks of the Au Sable Shores Region of Western Lake Huron by John M. O’Shea: Resource for shipwreck history in the Oscoda area.

Keywords

BANNER, Schooner-Barge, Lake Huron, Fish Point, Point Au Sable, Oscoda Michigan, 19th-Century Shipwreck, Lath Cargo, Gale Incident

Conclusion

The BANNER exemplifies the evolution of 19th-century Great Lakes shipping, transitioning from a Brig to a Schooner and finally to a Barge as maritime demands changed. Its loss in 1888, amidst the unforgiving conditions of Lake Huron, reflects the perilous nature of Great Lakes navigation during this era. The rescue of the crew, facilitated by the local community, highlights the resilience and solidarity of those living and working on the lakes. The BANNER’s story remains an enduring chapter in the maritime history of Lake Huron.