Identification & Site Information:

• Name: MAITLAND
• Type: Bark (Three-Masted Sailing Ship)
• Date of Loss: 1 May 1871
• Final Resting Place: Straits of Mackinac, Great Lakes (specific location undetermined)
• Cargo: Grain
• Cause of Sinking: Collision

Vessel Type Description:

The MAITLAND was a Bark, a three-masted vessel with square sails on the foremast and mainmast and a fore-and-aft rigged mizzenmast. This design was common in the mid-19th century for transporting bulk goods across the Great Lakes. Its stability and capacity made it a favoured choice for carrying grain and other commodities.

History of the Incident:

On May 1, 1871, the MAITLAND was navigating the Straits of Mackinac, a critical shipping passage connecting Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. Loaded with grain, the Bark collided with the Schooner GOLDEN HARVEST in the narrow and busy waterway.

The initial collision caused significant damage, but before the crew could recover or assess the situation, the Schooner MEARS struck the MAITLAND. The second impact was catastrophic, causing the Bark to sink rapidly. The combined incidents resulted in the Total Loss of the MAITLAND.

Details regarding the fate of the crew or rescue efforts are not included in the historical account.

Final Disposition:

The MAITLAND was lost entirely, along with its cargo of grain, following the collisions. The exact location of the wreck remains undocumented in modern records, and its condition on the lakebed is unknown.

Located By & Date:

No confirmed discovery or exploration of the wreck of the MAITLAND has been reported.

NOTMARs & Advisories:

There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the wreck of the MAITLAND.

Resources & Links:

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• David Swayze Shipwreck File

3D Model Maitland

Maitland by BeckyKaganSchott on Sketchfab