Identification & Site Information:

• Name: Wisconsin
• Type: Wooden Sidewheel Steamer
• Built: 1838 in Conneaut, Ohio, by George W. Jones
• Dimensions:
• After Rebuilding:
  • Length: 218 feet 8 inches (66.6 meters)
  • Beam: 30 feet (9.1 meters)
  • Depth: 14 feet (4.3 meters)
• Original Dimensions:
  • Length: 157 feet (47.9 meters)
  • Beam: 29 feet (8.8 meters)
  • Depth: 11 feet 6 inches (3.5 meters)
• Tonnage: 887 tons (after rebuilding, old measurement system)
• Coordinates:
  • Latitude: 41°43.246’ N
  • Longitude: 83°04.38’ W
  • LORAN Coordinates: 43679.1, 56824.3
  • Location: Near West Sister Island, Lake Erie
• Depth: 35 feet (11 meters)

Vessel Type & Description

The Wisconsin was a wooden Sidewheel Steamer, a hallmark of early Great Lakes shipping. Known for its paddle-driven propulsion, the Steamer was used for transporting passengers and goods. After rebuilding in 1844, it became one of the largest and fastest vessels of its time on the Great Lakes, powered by a crosshead engine generating 385 horsepower.

History

Launched in 1838, the Wisconsin was a product of the burgeoning industrial era, designed to meet the growing demand for passenger and freight transport on the Great Lakes. It primarily operated between Buffalo, Detroit, Milwaukee, and Chicago. The vessel experienced several mishaps, such as running aground in 1840 and colliding with the Steamer NILE in 1847, but was consistently repaired and returned to service.

In 1844, a major reconstruction extended its length, enhancing its capacity and speed. It operated under various owners based in Buffalo, New York, and remained a prominent vessel on the lakes.

On August 24, 1853, the Wisconsin met its tragic end after a collision with the propeller BRUNSWICK near West Sister Island in Lake Erie. The Steamer sank within ten minutes, though all crew members were rescued by the BRUNSWICK.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the Wisconsin lies submerged near West Sister Island in Lake Erie at a depth of 35 feet (11 meters). It is a site of historical interest, marking the perilous nature of 19th-century Great Lakes navigation.

NOTMARs & Advisories

The wreck is located near West Sister Island, a known hazard area for navigation. Mariners are advised to use caution when operating near the site’s coordinates.

Located By & Date

The wreck’s coordinates are well-documented, and it is recognized as a significant historical site on Lake Erie.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The Wisconsin rests in shallow water, accessible to divers interested in Great Lakes history. The wooden structure, while deteriorated, offers a glimpse into the maritime engineering of the era.

Resources & Links

• •Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• •David Swayze Shipwreck File
• •Bowling Green State University – Great Lakes Ships

Tags: #GreatLakesShipwrecks #LakeErie #SidewheelSteamer #MaritimeHistory #ShipwreckResearch #NavigationHazard

Conclusion

The Wisconsin is a testament to the dynamic era of Great Lakes maritime trade, reflecting both the ingenuity and risks of 19th-century shipping. Its tragic sinking in 1853 and subsequent discovery offer invaluable insights into the history of Great Lakes navigation and early Steamer construction. The wreck remains a significant point of exploration for both divers and maritime historians.