Scow-Schooner Emma Young

Identification & Site Information

• Name: Emma Young
• Other Names: Unknown
• Official Number: Unknown
• Vessel Type at Loss: Wooden scow-Schooner
• Builder: Unknown
• Year Built & Launched: Unknown
• Specifications: Unknown
• Date Lost: August 21, 1871
• Location of Loss: Near Algonac, Michigan, St. Clair River
• Cause of Loss: Collision (likely with the Steamer Milton D. Ward)
• Loss of Life: Unknown
• Cargo at Time of Loss: Unknown

Vessel Description & History

The Emma Young was a scow-Schooner, a type of flat-bottomed sailing vessel commonly used on the Great Lakes for hauling lumber, stone, and other bulk cargo. These vessels were popular due to their ability to operate in shallow waters and dock at unimproved shorelines.

Final Voyage & Loss

On August 21, 1871, the Emma Young was sailing near Algonac, Michigan, in the St. Clair River, when she collided with another vessel—likely the steamer Milton D. Ward. The impact caused the Schooner to sink, though details on her crew, cargo, or specific circumstances remain unknown.

Final Disposition

No reports of salvage or recovery.  Given the shallow waters of the St. Clair River, wreckage may have been removed or buried by sediment over time.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: http://www.maritimehistoryofthegreatlakes.ca
• Great Lakes Maritime Database (GLMD): https://greatlakeships.org
• David Swayze Shipwreck File: https://usace.contentdm.oclc.org
• Great Lakes Vessel Database (BGSU): https://greatlakes.bgsu.edu/vessels

Conclusion

Both the Emma Young and Henry Young were scow-schooners, a common but less-documented vessel type used for hauling bulk materials on the Great Lakes.  The Emma Young was lost to a collision in the St. Clair River in 1871, with no reports of salvage.