Shipwreck Profile: M. Stalker

Identification & Site Information

• Name(s): M. Stalker
• Registry: U.S.
• Official Number: 17211
• Vessel Type: Schooner
• Builder: Henry Kelley
• Place Built: Milan, Ohio
• Year Built: 1863
• Year Sank: 1886
• Hull Material: Wood
• Masts: One visible on the wreck site
• Engines: None (sail-powered vessel)
• Dimensions
• Length: 135 ft (41.15 m)
• Width: 25 ft (7.62 m)
• Depth: 10 ft (3.05 m)

Vessel History

The M. Stalker was a wooden-hulled Schooner constructed in 1863 by Henry Kelley in Milan, Ohio. Designed as a workhorse of the Great Lakes, schooners like the M. Stalker were essential for transporting goods such as lumber, grain, and coal during the 19th century.

The vessel had no documented rebuilds during its service, indicating it likely remained close to its original design until its sinking in 1886. Though details of its sinking are sparse, the Schooner reportedly sank during a storm in Lake Huron. No lives were reported lost, and the remains now provide insight into Schooner design and cargo transport during the mid-19th century.

For more on the M. Stalker’s history:

• Great Lakes Historical Society Record
• Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve
• 3DShipwrecks – M. Stalker

3D Model – M. Stalker

Schooner M.Stalker by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Wreck Site Information

• Lake: Lake Huron

• State/Province: Michigan

• Depth: 85 ft (25.91 m)

• GPS Coordinates: 45° 47.620′ N, 084° 41.062′ W

• Site Description:

The wreck of the M. Stalker lies upright on the lakebed and remains largely intact forward. While the transom and Stern cabin are missing, the forward and mid-ship decking are well-preserved. Key features visible on the site include:

• Windlass and Centerboard Winch: Reflecting the ship’s functional role in cargo transport.

• Rigging: Some sections remain off the starboard side.

• Main Mast Fife Rail: Still extant, indicating where crew managed sail controls.

Diving Notes & Advisories

• Depth Consideration:

At 85 ft (25.91 m), the wreck is accessible to recreational divers with advanced training.

• Preservation Status:

As part of the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve, divers are urged to respect the site, leaving artifacts undisturbed.

• Visibility:

Conditions in Lake Huron can vary, with Visibility influenced by seasonal and weather changes.

Notable Artifacts on Site

• Windlass and Centerboard winch.

• Centerboard.

• Rigging remains on the starboard side.

• Forward decking and main mast fife rail.

Keywords:

M. Stalker Schooner, Lake Huron shipwrecks, Great Lakes schooners, 19th-century cargo vessels, Straits of Mackinac.