Shipwreck Report: Unidentified Wreck – Rochester 6

Identification & Site Information

•Name: Unidentified Wreck – Rochester 6

•Type: Likely Schooner or Barge

•Location: Near Rochester, New York, Lake Ontario

•Coordinates: Precise location not disclosed

•Depth: Not specified

•Dimensions: Unknown

•Condition: Presumed intact but requires further assessment

•Discovery Date: 2022 by NOAA

•Significance: One of three major wreck discoveries (Rochester 4, 5, and 6) made by NOAA in 2022, emphasizing Lake Ontario’s rich maritime heritage.

Vessel Type Description

Based on the context of regional maritime history, Rochester 6 is presumed to be either a Schooner or a Barge, two of the most common vessel types operating on Lake Ontario during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Schooners typically carried bulk cargo like grain, coal, or lumber, while barges were used for similar purposes, often towed by steam tugs. The construction materials, likely wood, and design characteristics will provide clues to the vessel’s identity upon further investigation.

History

Rochester 6 is part of a trio of shipwrecks discovered in Lake Ontario near Rochester, New York, during a 2022 NOAA underwater survey. While its identity remains unknown, the wreck is believed to date back to the 19th or early 20th century, aligning with a period when Lake Ontario was a vital corridor for maritime commerce.

The city of Rochester was a bustling hub for trade during this time, with goods like flour, lumber, and coal transported via schooners and barges. Ships faced numerous hazards, including sudden storms, collisions, and navigational challenges. Rochester 6 may represent one such casualty, lost during routine trade or a catastrophic weather event.

Significance of 2022 NOAA Discoveries

The identification of Rochester 6, along with Rochester 4 and 5, highlights the historical importance of Lake Ontario as a transportation artery. The trio of discoveries underscores the potential for uncovering previously unknown stories about the region’s economic and maritime history.

Each wreck offers:

•Archaeological Value: Providing insights into ship construction, cargo types, and trade practices.

•Historical Context: Illuminating the challenges faced by mariners navigating the Great Lakes.

•Cultural Heritage: Preserving the stories of those who worked and lived on these waters.

Final Disposition

Rochester 6 remains unidentified. The wreck is considered intact, though its condition, dimensions, and specific features require further documentation. Additional studies, such as 3D mapping and sonar imaging, may provide critical information for determining the vessel’s identity and history.

NOTMARs & Advisories

•Status: Location confirmed but precise coordinates not disclosed to the public to prevent unauthorized access or artifact removal.

•Advisories: Researchers and divers are encouraged to follow NOAA guidelines and regional laws to protect this underwater cultural heritage site.

Located By & Date

•Discovery: Identified in 2022 by NOAA during a targeted survey of Lake Ontario’s underwater sites.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The condition of Rochester 6 is unknown, though presumed stable based on its recent discovery. The site’s accessibility for diving or research purposes is restricted, pending further archaeological evaluation and preservation planning.

Resources & Links

•NOAA Reports (2022): Official announcements and updates on the discovery of Rochester 4, 5, and 6.

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Historical context for Lake Ontario shipwrecks.

•Great Lakes Shipwreck Research Database: Comprehensive records of identified and unidentified wrecks in the Great Lakes.

•NOAA Underwater Cultural Heritage Program: Guidelines for preserving and studying underwater archaeological sites.

Conclusion

The discovery of Rochester 6 is a significant contribution to the understanding of Lake Ontario’s maritime history. While the vessel’s identity remains a mystery, its presence underscores the ongoing importance of preserving and studying underwater cultural heritage. Further exploration and research are needed to unravel the story of Rochester 6 and its place in the historical tapestry of the Great Lakes.

Tags

#Rochester6 #LakeOntarioShipwrecks #NOAADiscoveries #MaritimeHistory #GreatLakesWrecks #UnderwaterArchaeology