Identification & Site Information:

• Name(s): Lottie Cooper
• Registry: US
• Official Number: 140185
• Vessel Type: Schooner
• Builder: Rand & Burger
• Place Built: Manitowoc, Wisconsin
• Year Built: 1876
• Year Sank: 1894
• Hull Material: Wood
• Masts: 3 at build time
• Engines: None

Dimensions:

• Length: 131 ft (39.93 m)
• Width: 27 ft (8.23 m)
• Depth: 9 ft (2.74 m)

Vessel History:

The Lottie Cooper was a wooden three-masted Schooner constructed in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, in 1876 by Rand & Burger. It was typical of the robust schooners that plied the Great Lakes during the late 19th century, primarily transporting cargo such as lumber. Despite its solid construction, the vessel sank in 1894 during a storm on Lake Michigan. No rebuilds or significant modifications were recorded during its active service. More details about its history can be found here:

• Great Lakes Ships Database

• Wisconsin Shipwrecks Database.

Wreck Site Information:

• Location: Lake Michigan

• State/Province: Wisconsin

• Depth: On land

• GPS Coordinates: Sheboygan Marina

• Site Description:

The wreck of the Lottie Cooper was raised from the waters of Lake Michigan in 1992 during the development of the Sheboygan Marina. Parts of the ship were preserved and placed on display onshore as a public exhibit. Unfortunately, the lack of preservation efforts for the Hull has left the remains of the Schooner in poor condition. This display is considered one of the most at-risk shipwreck artifacts on Lake Michigan, highlighting the importance of proactive conservation for historical maritime relics.

NOTMARs & Advisories:

As the Lottie Cooper is now a land-based exhibit, it is not suitable for diving. Visitors interested in Great Lakes maritime history can view the display at Sheboygan Marina. Care should be taken to respect the site and its historical significance.

Resources & Links:

• Great Lakes Ships Database
• Wisconsin Shipwrecks Database.
• 3D Shipwrecks – Lottie Cooper

3D Model – Lottie Cooper

Keywords:

Lottie Cooper, Schooner, Lake Michigan, Manitowoc, Sheboygan Marina, Shipwreck Display, Historical Preservation, Rand & Burger.

The Sheboygan Marina exhibit serves as a poignant reminder of the rich Maritime History of the Great Lakes and the ongoing need for conservation efforts to protect these cultural artifacts for future generations.