Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Havanna
- Type: Two-masted schooner
- Year Built: 1871
- Builder: Oswego, New York (likely by A. Miller or local yard)
- Dimensions: Approx. 135–136 ft; Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: Approximately 306 tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 15 m / 50 ft
- Location: ~6 miles north of St. Joseph, Lake Michigan
- Coordinates: N 42° 11.731′, W 86° 25.637′
- Official Number: Not recorded
- Original Owners: Captain John Curran at time of loss
- Number of Masts: Two
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Havanna was a two-masted schooner, a common design among Great Lakes trading vessels, built for bulk freight transport.
Description
The Havanna was a two-masted schooner of roughly 135–136 ft, built in 1871 at Oswego, NY. Her 306 ton capacity suited her for bulk freight such as iron ore. A common design among Great Lakes trading schooners, she featured prominent centerboards and robust hull construction to weather the variable lake conditions.
History
During her career, the Havanna ran aground off Forester, Michigan in 1885 but was successfully salvaged and returned to service. On 3 October 1887, while transporting iron ore from Escanaba to St. Joseph, she was caught in severe storm conditions. Unable to safely enter the harbor, the captain anchored outside, but the vessel sprang leaks. The schooner drifted northward until she eventually sank in approximately 50–52 ft of water, some 6 miles north of St. Joseph.
Significant Incidents
- Ran aground off Forester, Michigan in 1885 but was salvaged.
- Sank on 3 October 1887 during a storm while transporting iron ore.
Final Disposition
The Havanna foundered slowly, allowing her crew to climb into the rigging. Tragically, when the mainmast collapsed, Captain Curran, cook John Morse, and seaman Joseph Clint drowned. The remaining four survivors were rescued by the tug Hannah Sullivan.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck lies at a depth of approximately 50–52 ft, making it accessible for scuba divers. It is documented by regional preservation groups and remains of interest for archaeological surveys.
Resources & Links
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The Havanna serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Great Lakes vessels and the importance of maritime safety. Divers visiting the site can explore the remains of this historic schooner.
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