Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: P. S. Marsh

• Type: Schooner

• Cargo: Sandstone

• Final Location: Approximately 5 miles east of the Two Heart River, Lake Superior

• Date of Incident: August 26, 1896

• Coordinates: Not documented

Vessel Type Description

The P. S. Marsh was a traditional wooden Schooner, commonly used during the late 19th century to transport bulk materials such as sandstone, coal, and grain. Schooners like the P. S. Marsh were vital to Great Lakes commerce, with their multi-mast configurations offering efficient sail power to navigate the often unpredictable waters of Lake Superior.

History

The P. S. Marsh played a role in the robust maritime trade that connected ports across the Great Lakes. Laden with sandstone and en route from Portage to Ashtabula, the vessel was caught in challenging conditions on the morning of Wednesday, August 26, 1896. Near the Two Heart River, about 5 miles offshore, the P. S. Marsh Foundered, succumbing to the forces of nature.

The Schooner’s story is remarkable not only for the loss of the vessel but for the survival of its entire crew—a testament to their skill, determination, and perhaps a stroke of luck amid the disaster.

Final Disposition

The P. S. Marsh sank in Lake Superior after foundering. The vessel was considered a Total Loss, with no salvageable cargo or structural elements reported. The sandstone cargo, characteristic of the building and construction materials transported in that era, was likely scattered across the lakebed near the wreck.

NOTMARs & Advisories

• Current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs): None specifically issued for this wreck. Mariners should note that Lake Superior’s waters, particularly near the Two Heart River, are historically treacherous during adverse weather conditions.

Located By & Date

The wreck of the P. S. Marsh has not been definitively located or documented in underwater surveys. Historical records such as the Port Huron Daily Times on August 27, 1896, provide details of the incident.

Current Condition & Accessibility

• Condition: The remains of the P. S. Marsh likely lie scattered on the lakebed, if they have not been fully decomposed or buried by sediment over time.

• Accessibility: The exact location of the wreck is unknown, limiting access for divers or researchers. If located, the wreck would be an intriguing site for historical maritime exploration.

Resources & Links

1. Maritime History of the Great Lakes:

An essential source for shipwreck records and archival newspaper clippings.

https://www.maritimehistoryofthegreatlakes.ca

2. Port Huron Daily Times Archives:

Historical documentation of the incident published on August 27, 1896.

3. Great Lakes Historical Society:

Dedicated to preserving the legacy of Great Lakes vessels and their crews.

4. Local Diving Clubs and Maritime Museums:

Organizations around Lake Superior may hold further details or have conducted exploratory dives near the Two Heart River area.

Conclusion

The P. S. Marsh Schooner’s story is a poignant reminder of the inherent risks faced by Great Lakes mariners, particularly during an era when wind-powered vessels dominated maritime trade. Despite the loss of the vessel, the survival of the crew stands as a testament to their resolve and skill. The incident remains part of the rich tapestry of Lake Superior’s maritime history.

Keywords

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