IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFO

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

Vessel Name: SS Vienna

Year Built: 1873

Official Number: 25875

Also Known As: None

Built At: Quayle & Martin, Cleveland, Ohio, USA

Vessel Type: Wooden Propeller Steamship

Hull Materials: Wood

Number of Decks: 1

Builder: Quayle & Martin

Original Owner: Cleveland Navigation Company, Cleveland, Ohio

Length: 191 feet (58.2 meters)

Beam: 34 feet (10.4 meters)

Depth: 14 feet (4.3 meters)

Gross Tonnage: 1,006 tons

Net Tonnage: 829 tons

Propulsion: Triple-expansion steam engine

Location of Wreck: Whitefish Bay, Lake Superior, Michigan, USA

GPS Coordinates: Near shore, precise location within Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve

Depth at Wreck Site: 145 feet (44.2 meters)

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The SS Vienna was a wooden propeller Steamship built for the Cleveland Navigation Company. Designed to handle the rugged transport of coal, lumber, and grain, the vessel was equipped with a triple-expansion steam engine. The wooden Hull was robust enough to endure the harsh conditions of the Great Lakes, and its single Deck was well-suited for bulk cargo.

HISTORY

The SS Vienna was launched in 1873 and quickly became an integral part of the Great Lakes shipping network. Operated by the Cleveland Navigation Company, it transported essential commodities that fueled industrial growth in the region.

In 1876, the Vienna suffered a minor collision but was repaired and returned to service, a testament to the resilience of its construction. In 1888, it underwent significant upgrades, including the installation of a new engine, which improved its efficiency and ensured its continued operation.

The vessel met its tragic end on September 16, 1892. While towing the Barge Mattie C. Bell in Whitefish Bay under foggy conditions, it was struck broadside by the wooden propeller Nipigon. The collision created a catastrophic breach in the Vienna’s side, and despite the Nipigon’s efforts to tow it to safety, the Vienna sank rapidly. All crew members survived the incident.

FINAL DISPOSITION

•How: Sunk following a collision with the Nipigon.

•Where: Whitefish Bay, Lake Superior, Michigan, USA.

•When: September 16, 1892.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

The wreck of the SS Vienna lies upright in 145 feet (44.2 meters) of water, with its Deck accessible at 120 feet (36.6 meters), making it a popular destination for advanced divers. The wreck remains remarkably intact, offering divers a unique opportunity to explore a well-preserved wooden Steamship.

Points of Interest:

•Collision Break: Visible on the starboard side, marking the impact point with the Nipigon.

•Artifacts: Cups, shovels, a Capstan, and other items are scattered throughout the site.

•Engine: The triple-expansion steam engine remains a centerpiece, featuring ornate, star-shaped, oil-painted decorations.

•Stern: The massive rudder, rudder shaft, and propeller are particularly well-preserved.

•Small Wooden Boat: Found near the wreck, likely used as a lifeboat or tender.

Diving Notes:

•Situated within the Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve, the site is protected and offers excellent Visibility.

•Recommended for advanced divers due to depth and potential cold water temperatures.

REFERENCES & LINKS

•Marine History of the Great Lakes

•David Swayze Shipwreck File

•Great Lakes Ships Database

•Bowling Green State University Historical Vessel Collection

•Great Lakes Shipwrecks & Survivals by William Ratigan

•Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve

•3DShipwrecks.org – SS Vienna

KEYWORDS

SS Vienna, Whitefish Bay shipwreck, Lake Superior, Nipigon collision, Cleveland Navigation Company, Great Lakes shipwreck, wooden Steamship, 3D shipwreck model, Quayle & Martin.

CONCLUSION

The wreck of the SS Vienna offers an unparalleled glimpse into the history of Great Lakes maritime commerce. From its construction in 1873 to its untimely demise in 1892, the Vienna’s story is one of resilience and tragedy. Today, it remains an exceptional dive site, preserving the legacy of wooden steamships and their vital role in shaping the industrial growth of the Great Lakes region.