IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION: #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Abyssinia was a schooner-barge, a hybrid vessel type that combined the features of a traditional sailing schooner with those of a barge. Schooner-barges were equipped with masts and sails for navigation but were often towed by steamers when necessary. This design allowed for greater versatility in transporting goods across the Great Lakes, particularly for larger cargoes. The Abyssinia was notable for its substantial size, with four masts and two decks, constructed primarily of wood.
HISTORY #
Built in 1896 by James Davidson & Co. in West Bay City, Michigan, the Abyssinia was a large wooden vessel measuring 288.6 feet in length, with a beam of 44.6 feet and a depth of 19.1 feet. It had a gross tonnage of 2037 and a net tonnage of 1916, indicating its significant carrying capacity.
The Abyssinia was involved in various operations throughout its service life, including multiple towing operations by different vessels. In 1900, it was damaged during a storm, and in 1901 and 1912, it was towed by the City of Glasgow and the E.M. Peck, respectively. Despite these incidents, the vessel continued to operate until its final voyage in 1917.
On October 18, 1917, the Abyssinia met its demise when it stranded on Tecumseh Reef, located 3 miles west of Buffalo, New York, in Lake Erie. At the time, the vessel was carrying a cargo of wheat. Fortunately, all eight crew members on board survived the incident, but the ship was declared a total loss and subsequently abandoned. The wreck of the Abyssinia was discovered in 1962.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The Abyssinia was abandoned as a total loss after it stranded on Tecumseh Reef in 1917. The wreck, which lies at the coordinates provided, serves as a historical site in Lake Erie.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck of the Abyssinia was discovered in 1962, adding it to the list of notable shipwrecks in the Great Lakes region.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
The site is known to be a shipwreck location, and mariners and divers should approach with caution, keeping in mind the shoal that caused the vessel’s demise.
