Identification & Site Information

•Wreck Name: Albany

•Type: Brig

•Incident Date: Unspecified (wrecked while seeking shelter in a storm)

•Location: Near Presque Isle, Lake Huron

•Condition: Total Loss due to grounding and subsequent storm; vessel destroyed.

Vessel Type Description

The Albany was a Brig, a two-masted, square-rigged sailing vessel designed for cargo transport. Brigs were highly valued on the Great Lakes for their speed and capacity, often used for transporting bulk goods. Their sturdy construction enabled them to handle challenging weather, though they were not immune to the severe storms that frequently struck the region.

History

Built in Oswego, New York, the Albany operated on the Great Lakes, serving as a cargo transporter between key ports. Known for its resilience and ability to carry large loads, the vessel was integral to the trade network on the lakes. The Albany represents the essential role of brigs in the 19th-century Great Lakes economy, moving goods vital to the growing industrial cities around the lakes.

Final Disposition

While attempting to seek shelter from an approaching gale near Presque Isle on Lake Huron, the Albany was driven over a bar by strong winds and turbulent waters. Despite immediate efforts to haul the vessel back into deeper water, it remained stranded on the bar. Shortly after, a second storm struck, inflicting further damage and ultimately destroying the Albany. Despite the vessel’s loss, all passengers and crew were safely rescued, avoiding any casualties.

Rescue and Salvage Attempts

Efforts were initially made to refloat the Albany and move it back to safety, but these attempts proved unsuccessful due to the vessel’s position on the bar and the force of the storm. When a subsequent storm hit, the additional damage rendered salvage impossible, leading to the Total Loss of the vessel. The quick response of rescuers ensured the safety of everyone aboard, marking a fortunate outcome despite the vessel’s destruction.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to this wreck site today. The area near Presque Isle is known for shifting sandbars and shallow hazards, especially in storm conditions, which can complicate navigation. Mariners should exercise caution near Presque Isle during poor weather.

Located By & Date

The wreck site was known at the time of the incident, as the vessel grounded near Presque Isle. However, the exact location of any remaining fragments has not been documented, and shifting sands may have obscured or buried parts of the wreck.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The Albany was destroyed by the second storm, and any remaining pieces of the vessel are likely scattered and buried by sand over time. If accessible, the site would offer limited Visibility of structural remnants, given the likely deterioration and burial of wreckage. The area around Presque Isle may hold historical interest for divers but may offer minimal physical exploration due to the nature of the wreck and environmental conditions.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Maritime History of the Great Lakes – A resource with historical records on shipwrecks, including vessels lost in storms near Presque Isle.

•Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum: Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum – Provides information on Great Lakes shipwrecks and the challenges faced by vessels like the Albany.

Conclusion

The grounding and subsequent destruction of the Albany near Presque Isle underscores the dangers that vessels faced on the Great Lakes, particularly in the unpredictable weather of Lake Huron. Despite the crew’s and passengers’ safe rescue, the Albany was a Total Loss, marking the end of its service on the lakes. This incident is a reminder of the risks inherent to Great Lakes navigation and the resilience of both vessels and crew who navigated these waters.

Tags

#GreatLakes #Shipwrecks #LakeHuron #PresqueIsle #Brig #Albany #MaritimeHistory #HistoricalShipwreck #GreatLakesStorms #19thCenturyShips