CRAFTSMAN

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #

Wreck Name: CRAFTSMAN
Type: Crane Barge
Date of Incident: June 3, 1958
Location: Avon Point, Lake Erie, approximately 2 miles north of Avon Point
Coordinates: 41° 31.932′ N, 82° 00.355′ W
Depth: 41 feet (14 meters)
Condition: The wreck is upright on the lakebed, with the crane structure and barge hull largely intact. The wreckage shows signs of corrosion and degradation due to prolonged submersion in the lake.

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The CRAFTSMAN was a crane barge built in 1921, designed to perform heavy lifting and construction tasks on the Great Lakes. The barge had a gross tonnage of 165 and a length of 90 feet. It was registered under the U.S. Number 221068. Crane barges like the CRAFTSMAN were essential for dredging, construction, and maintenance tasks in ports and waterways.

HISTORY #

The CRAFTSMAN was constructed in 1921 and served in the Great Lakes, performing various industrial tasks such as dredging and heavy lifting. The vessel was operated by the Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company. Over the years, the barge contributed to the development and maintenance of maritime infrastructure.

On June 3, 1958, the CRAFTSMAN foundered approximately 2 miles north of Avon Point, Lake Erie. The specific details of the incident remain unclear, but the barge was declared a total loss. The wreck now lies at a depth of 41 feet (14 meters) and remains a part of Lake Erie’s underwater historical landscape.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

The CRAFTSMAN lies on the lakebed, largely intact, with its crane and structural components visible to divers. Despite the damage and corrosion over the decades, the wreck remains relatively well-preserved. The site is accessible to divers, offering an interesting glimpse into the industrial past of Lake Erie.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #

The CRAFTSMAN wreck is located in 41 feet of water, making it accessible to divers of various skill levels. The site features the remains of the crane and other structural elements of the barge. However, divers should exercise caution due to the potential for entanglement in the crane or other parts of the wreck.

RESOURCES & LINKS #

Primary Sources: U.S. Vessel losses on the Great Lakes, Merchant Vessel List of the United States (1959)
Further Reading:
- Great Lakes Wrecks and Maritime History
- Lake Erie Diving Resources

CONCLUSION #

The CRAFTSMAN serves as a significant piece of Lake Erie’s industrial history, offering divers a well-preserved wreck to explore. The barge’s role in the construction and maintenance of maritime infrastructure highlights the importance of such vessels in the early 20th century. The CRAFTSMAN wreck remains a testament to the industrial activities that once thrived on the Great Lakes.