Identification & Site Information

• •Vessel Name: Persian
• •Type: Schooner
• •Tonnage: 545 tons
• •Year Built: 1855
• •Builder: James Navagh, Oswego, New York
• •Owners: Captain Long and Mr. Michael Murphy, Oswego, New York
• •Value: $11,000
• •Repairs: Extensive repairs completed in 1865
• •Crew: Entire crew hailed from Oswego
• •Date of Wreck: September 16, 1868
• •Location: Above Presque Isle, Lake Huron
• •Depth: Masthead near the surface
• •Hazard: Danger to passing steamers
• GPS Coordinates N45° 41.961’ W84° 09.174’

Vessel Type Description

The Persian was a robust wooden Schooner, designed to withstand the rigors of Great Lakes navigation. Constructed in 1855 by James Navagh in Oswego, New York, it was one of the larger vessels of its time, intended for bulk cargo transportation across the expansive waters of the Great Lakes. By 1865, the Schooner underwent extensive repairs, ensuring its operational efficiency and continued service in the competitive shipping industry of the mid-19th century.

History

The Persian, co-owned by Captain Long and Michael Murphy of Oswego, was a key player in commercial shipping on the Great Lakes. Its sturdy build and substantial cargo capacity made it a valuable asset in transporting goods between ports.

On September 16, 1868, tragedy struck while the Persian was navigating Lake Huron with favorable winds. The Schooner was struck on the quarter by the Schooner E.B. Allen, which was attempting to pass. The collision caused catastrophic damage, forcing the Persian’s crew to attempt an emergency landing. Despite their efforts, the Schooner was lost, and none of the crew survived. The incident became one of the notable maritime tragedies of the era, underscoring the hazards faced by sailors on the Great Lakes.

Final Disposition

Following the collision, the Persian sank near Presque Isle in Lake Huron. Its masthead, perilously close to the surface, posed a navigational hazard to passing vessels, particularly steamers. The Schooner remained undiscovered for over a century until its wreck was located in 1991, lying in deep water near the site of its sinking.

Located By & Date

The wreck of the Persian was discovered in 1991 by a team of underwater explorers. Its condition provided valuable insights into mid-19th-century shipbuilding and the circumstances surrounding its tragic loss.

NOTMARs & Advisories

•Hazard: The masthead of the Persian is located close to the water’s surface, posing a danger to vessels passing through the area.

•Chart Obstruction: Mariners are advised to exercise caution and refer to navigational charts when traversing the vicinity of the wreck.

Resources & Links

• •3dshipwrecks.org – Persian.
• •Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive records on historical vessels and shipwrecks.
• •David Swayze Shipwreck File: Offers detailed records on Great Lakes maritime losses.
• •Toronto Telegram Fonds: Archival material documenting Ontario’s maritime history.

3D Model – Persian

Persian by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Conclusion

The wreck of the Persian remains a stark reminder of the challenges and dangers faced by mariners on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Its discovery in 1991 shed light on one of the region’s many maritime tragedies and added to the rich historical narrative of Great Lakes shipping. While its proximity to the surface poses ongoing risks, the Persian continues to stand as a testament to the resilience and sacrifices of those who worked these inland seas.

Keywords

#Persian #Schooner #LakeHuron #EBAllen #Shipwreck #GreatLakes #Oswego #MaritimeHistory #19thCenturyShipping #PresqueIsle