Shipwreck Report: M.W. Wright (1868–1884)

Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: M.W. Wright
• Other Names: None
• Official Number: 17825
• Vessel Type: Wooden propeller-driven vessel – Excursion Boat, Tug, and Yacht
• Built: 1868, by Elliott, Depauville, NY (a shipbuilding town near Chaumont, NY, well inland from the main shipping routes)
• Final Location: Near Cross Village, Michigan, Lake Michigan
• Date Lost: November 14, 1884
• Cause: Storm – Driven ashore and destroyed
• Final Cargo: Fish, passengers
• Loss of Life: None
• Specifications Length: 70 feet (21.3 meters) Beam: 14 feet (4.3 meters) Depth: 5 feet (1.5 meters)
• Tonnage: 34 gross, 24 net tons
• Hull Material: Wood
• Propulsion: Single-screw propeller (steam-powered)
• Owner: Captain Chamberlin
• Home Port: Charlevoix, Michigan

Operational History

The M.W. Wright was a small, multi-purpose vessel built in 1868 in Depauville, New York. Unlike larger cargo steamers of the time, she was designed for light work, including:

• Passenger excursions during the summer months
• Transporting small cargo loads, including fish
• Acting as a Tugboat when needed

She primarily operated in the waters of northern Lake Michigan, particularly between Beaver Island, Charlevoix, and other small settlements along Michigan’s northwest coast. The Great Lakes region relied on vessels like the M.W. Wright to connect remote fishing and logging communities before reliable railroads reached these areas.

Final Voyage & Loss (November 14, 1884)

• Route: The M.W. Wright was traveling from Beaver Island to Charlevoix, Michigan, carrying fish and passengers.
• Weather Conditions:  A severe gale struck northern Lake Michigan, making navigation extremely difficult. The small vessel, not built for heavy storms, was unable to maintain course.
•  Incident Details: The M.W. Wright was driven ashore near Cross Village, Michigan.
•  The crew and passengers escaped safely.
•  A few days later, reports indicated that she was breaking apart, meaning she was likely a Total Loss.

Aftermath:

Despite the wreck, the M.W. Wright remained listed in shipping registries until at least 1892.  Some records suggest she may have been salvaged or partially Rebuilt before being fully Abandoned in 1893.

Wreck Site and Potential Remains

Location: Near Cross Village, Michigan, along Lake Michigan’s eastern shore.

• Current Condition:  The wooden Hull was reported as breaking apart within days of the wreck. Any remains would likely be scattered, buried in sand, or washed away by storms.
• Metal fastenings, engine components, or machinery might still exist on the lakebed.
• Potential for Discovery: Given Lake Michigan’s history of wreck hunting, any artifacts or remains could still be uncovered.
• Side-scan sonar and ROV surveys along the Cross Village shoreline might locate remnants.

Legacy and Significance

A Versatile Vessel of the Great Lakes The M.W. Wright was a classic example of a small multi-use Steamer, serving as an excursion boat, Tug, and cargo carrier. These vessels played a crucial role in connecting isolated communities before modern infrastructure developed.

The Dangers of Small Vessels on the Great Lakes

The wreck of the M.W. Wright highlights the risks faced by small wooden steamers in the unpredictable weather of the Great Lakes. Storms like the one that sank her were common in November, often leading to shipwrecks and disasters.

Possible Recovery or Prolonged Life

The fact that she remained listed in maritime records until 1892–1893 suggests that some part of the vessel may have been salvaged or repurposed. If her engine or machinery were removed, they may have been installed in another vessel.

Further Research and Resources

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes http://www.maritimehistoryofthegreatlakes.ca Contains historical ship records, wreck reports, and ownership details.
• Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum  https://www.shipwreckmuseum.com Features exhibits on lost steamers and fishing vessels.
• Michigan Shipwreck Research Association https://www.michiganshipwrecks.org Focuses on shipwreck discovery and research in Michigan waters.
• Local Archives and Museums
• Charlevoix Historical Society
• Beaver Island Historical Society
• Cross Village Maritime History Records

Conclusion

The M.W. Wright was a small but essential vessel, serving passenger, cargo, and Tugboat roles on northern Lake Michigan. She ran aground near Cross Village during a storm on November 14, 1884, and was reported breaking apart within days.

Though records suggest she remained on shipping registries until at least 1892, it is unclear whether she was salvaged or simply remained a derelict listing. Her wreck, if it still exists, could be an important piece of Michigan’s maritime history, showcasing the vital role small steamers played in regional commerce and travel.