IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

•Vessel Name: Unidentified K13

•Type: Presumed to be a wooden vessel, possibly a Schooner or small freighter

•Location: Lake Ontario, likely within a 20-mile radius of Oswego, New York

•Depth: Estimated to be over 100 feet (30 meters)

•Description: The wreck is relatively well-preserved, with significant portions of the Hull intact. It is believed to date from the mid to late 19th century, based on the construction methods observed.

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The K13 wreck is thought to be a wooden vessel, possibly a Schooner or small freighter typical of the mid to late 19th century. These vessels were the backbone of Great Lakes trade, designed for transporting cargoes such as grain, coal, timber, and manufactured goods. The robust wooden construction observed at the site suggests it was built to endure the harsh conditions of the Great Lakes. The preservation of the wreck offers valuable insights into historical shipbuilding techniques and maritime commerce of the period.

HISTORY

Lake Ontario was a bustling maritime corridor during the 19th century, integral to trade and transportation in the Great Lakes region. The K13 wreck likely represents one of the many vessels that plied these waters, contributing to the economic development of the surrounding areas.

Potential Historical Context:

•Cargoes: Commonly included bulk materials like grain, coal, and timber, vital to regional industries.

•Voyages: Vessels like the K13 often navigated between U.S. and Canadian ports, connecting inland markets with broader trade networks.

The wreck’s condition and depth suggest a sudden and catastrophic event, such as a storm, collision, or structural failure, leading to its sinking. The lack of historical records complicates its identification but emphasizes the high risks faced by 19th-century sailors.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The wreck lies at a depth exceeding 100 feet (30 meters) on the floor of Lake Ontario. Its preserved state, with significant Hull sections intact, indicates that it sank suddenly and has remained undisturbed by salvage operations. The site’s depth and preservation make it a valuable target for further exploration and research.

LOCATED BY & DATE

•Discovered By: Likely by NOAA or a local research expedition, though the details of its discovery remain unclear.

•Date of Discovery: Not documented.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

•Status: No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with this wreck.

•Advisory:

•The wreck does not pose a navigational hazard due to its depth.

•Divers exploring the wreck should adhere to safety guidelines for deep wreck diving and ensure they have proper training and equipment.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

•Condition:

•Significant portions of the Hull are intact, suggesting a high degree of preservation.

•The wreck’s integrity could provide detailed insights into ship design and construction of the period.

•Accessibility:

•The depth of the wreck (over 100 feet) necessitates technical diving skills and appropriate equipment.

•Visibility and currents in Lake Ontario may impact diving conditions.

RESOURCES & LINKS

•NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries: Information on marine preservation and historical shipwrecks.

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Explore Great Lakes Maritime History

•3D Shipwrecks: Resource for virtual and physical exploration of underwater sites.

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Database for historical shipwreck records.

CONCLUSION

The K13 wreck is a remarkable discovery that embodies the maritime history of Lake Ontario. Its well-preserved condition offers a unique opportunity to study the shipbuilding practices and trade routes of the 19th century. Further exploration could unveil more about the vessel’s origin, purpose, and the events leading to its sinking, enriching our understanding of Great Lakes maritime history.

KEYWORDS

•K13 Shipwreck

•Lake Ontario

•Oswego

•Wooden Vessel

•Schooner

•Small Freighter

•19th Century

•Great Lakes Maritime History

•Deep Wreck

•Recreational Diving

CALL TO ACTION

Maritime archaeologists and historians are encouraged to prioritize research and exploration of the K13 wreck. Collaboration with NOAA, local dive teams, and historical societies could uncover critical details about this unidentified vessel, contributing to the broader narrative of Great Lakes shipping and trade.