Identification & Site Information

• • Vessel Name: Sacramento
• • Vessel Type: Two-Masted Schooner
• • Year Built: 1850
• • Builder: Madison Rock, Ohio
• • Dimensions:
• • Gross Tonnage: 115.98 tons (old style measurement)
• • Final Resting Place: Gull Island Reef, near Kelley’s Island, Ohio, Lake Erie
• • Depth of Wreck: Approximately 75 feet (23 meters)

Vessel Type Description

The Sacramento was a wooden-hulled, two-masted Schooner designed for cargo transport across the Great Lakes. Built in Madison Rock, Ohio, in 1850, it reflected the era’s craftsmanship and was a workhorse for shipping bulk goods such as grain, lumber, and, on its final voyage, coke.

History

Construction and Early Years (1850):

• Built to serve the bustling Great Lakes trade, the Sacramento began its career transporting various goods between ports.

Mishaps and Repairs:

• • The Schooner encountered numerous incidents throughout its life:
• • Fairport, Ohio: Ran ashore during one of its voyages.
• • Off Buffalo, New York: Capsized on Lake Erie but was salvaged and repaired.
• • Erie, Pennsylvania: Disabled, requiring significant repairs.
• • Cleveland, Ohio: Grounded near the west piers in Lake Erie.

Collision and Salvage:

• The Sacramento collided with the Schooner Yorktown on Lake Michigan, resulting in its sinking. However, it was raised and returned to service.

Storm Near Port Colborne (November 1860):

• While navigating near Port Colborne, Ontario, on Lake Erie, the Schooner ran aground during a storm. This tragic event resulted in the loss of lives, highlighting the perilous conditions faced by Great Lakes mariners.

Final Voyage and Wreck (October 2, 1867):

• • Route: Cleveland, Ohio, to Detroit, Michigan
• • Cargo: Coke
• • Incident: Struck Gull Island Reef, near Kelley’s Island, Ohio, on Lake Erie.
• • The Schooner was wrecked in 75 feet of water, ending its 17-year career.
• • Casualties: Three crew members lost their lives in the tragic event.

Legacy

The Sacramento exemplifies the challenges faced by schooners during the 19th century. Its repeated mishaps, repairs, and eventual loss reflect the unpredictable and hazardous nature of Great Lakes navigation at the time. Despite its resilience and multiple salvage efforts, the vessel met a tragic end, underscoring the risks inherent in early maritime commerce.

Current Condition & Accessibility

• The wreck of the Sacramento lies near Gull Island Reef in 75 feet (23 meters) of water, making it accessible to advanced divers equipped for deeper dives. The site offers an opportunity to explore a piece of maritime history and examine a well-used Schooner that endured the rigors of Great Lakes shipping.

Historical Significance

The Sacramento represents the hardiness of early schooners and the determination of their crews to weather the dangers of Great Lakes trade. Its eventful history, including collisions, groundings, and eventual wrecking, paints a vivid picture of the maritime industry during a transformative period in North American history.

Resources & References

• • Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Documents the vessel’s history and incidents.
• • David Swayze Shipwreck File: Detailed records of the Sacramento’s mishaps and final wreck.
• • Local Dive Charters and Historical Societies: Insights into the wreck’s current condition and accessibility.

Conclusion

The Sacramento’s story is one of resilience in the face of adversity. Its service, punctuated by accidents and recoveries, reflects the maritime spirit of the 19th century. Resting near Gull Island Reef, the Schooner serves as a reminder of the perils of early Great Lakes navigation and a testament to the era’s craftsmanship and courage.