Identification & Site Information #
Vessel Type Description #
The GEORGE FINNIE was originally constructed as a three-masted wooden schooner, a common rigging type for cargo vessels on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. The schooner was known for its versatility in handling various cargoes such as grain, lumber, and coal. Its design allowed it to navigate the often rough and unpredictable waters of the Great Lakes. The vessel was later converted into a two-masted schooner, possibly to improve its sailing efficiency or to adapt to changing cargo demands.
History #
Built in 1866 at Oswego, New York, by G. Goble, the GEORGE FINNIE was a robust and reliable vessel that served the Great Lakes for 25 years. With a length of 130 feet, a beam of 26 feet, and a draft of 10 feet, the schooner had a gross tonnage of 301 tons, making it a sizable cargo carrier for its time.
Throughout its years of service, the GEORGE FINNIE was an integral part of the maritime commerce that fueled the economy of the Great Lakes region. It transported various goods between ports, contributing to the economic growth of cities and towns along the lakes.
However, the vessel’s career came to a tragic end on November 17, 1891, when it foundered in a gale while navigating the waters of Lake Erie. The schooner was caught in a powerful storm that it could not withstand, leading to its sinking. All seven crew members aboard the GEORGE FINNIE were lost in the disaster, marking a somber chapter in the vessel’s history.
Final Disposition #
The wreck of the GEORGE FINNIE now lies at a depth of 100 feet (30 meters) on the bottom of Lake Erie. The wreck site is located 11.3 nautical miles from Port Maitland, 20.2 nautical miles from Port Colborne, and 15.6 nautical miles from Dunkirk. The coordinates for the site are N 42° 40.087′ W 79° 36.250′.
Divers visiting the site will find an orange and white mooring buoy attached to the windlass of the wreck, aiding in locating and exploring the remains of the GEORGE FINNIE. The wreck is a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by sailors on the Great Lakes and serves as a historical site for those interested in maritime history.
Resources & Links #
- Niagara Divers Association
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Great Lakes Ships
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
Tags #
- Shipwreck
- Schooner
- Lake Erie
- Great Lakes Maritime History
- Port Dover
- Niagara Divers Association
- 19th Century Vessel
Conclusion #
The GEORGE FINNIE represents a significant piece of Great Lakes history, illustrating the perils of maritime trade in the late 19th century. The vessel’s loss during a gale in November 1891, with the tragic loss of all seven crew members, highlights the risks that sailors faced while navigating the often unpredictable and dangerous waters of Lake Erie. Today, the wreck of the GEORGE FINNIE serves as both a diving site and a historical artifact, allowing us to reflect on the legacy of those who sailed these waters.
