IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Edward Kean, later known as the Little Wissahickon, was a wooden schooner-barge with a single deck and two masts. Constructed in 1869, the vessel measured 146.4 feet in length, 29.4 feet in beam, and 12 feet in depth. With a gross tonnage of 376.53 and a net tonnage of 357.7, the schooner-barge was originally owned by P.E. Kean of Marine City. The Edward Kean was primarily used for transporting bulk cargo, such as coal, across the Great Lakes, and it was often towed by steamers.
HISTORY #
The Edward Kean had a rich history, with its construction dating back to 1869. Originally built as a schooner-barge, the vessel underwent several modifications, including the cutting down of its spars at Union Dry Dock in June 1879. In 1882, it was renamed the Little Wissahickon. Throughout its operational life, the vessel was towed by various steamers, including the Oakland, George L. Colwell, Salina, and James P. Donaldson.
The schooner-barge experienced numerous incidents, including groundings on Lake St. Clair, the Saginaw River, and Bird Island Reef. Despite these challenges, it remained in service until its tragic demise in 1896.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The Edward Kean met its fate on July 10, 1896, while under tow by the steamer James P. Donaldson, along with other consorts. The vessel sprang a leak and ultimately foundered in Lake Erie, approximately 22 miles south of Rondeau Point, Ontario. The schooner-barge was carrying a cargo of coal at the time of the sinking. Unfortunately, three crew members lost their lives during the incident. The wreck now rests at a depth of 80 feet, serving as a solemn reminder of its history.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are related to this wreck site.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck was discovered and documented by divers; however, specific details on the discovery are not mentioned.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The wreck of the Edward Kean remains upright on the lakebed. Significant features such as the ship’s wheel, located at the stern, and the windlass and anchors at the bow are still intact. The ship’s bell, initially removed by divers, has been returned to the site and securely bolted to a concrete block as a memorial. The site is accessible to experienced divers, with visibility and conditions typical of Lake Erie.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Primary Sources: Information compiled from historical accounts and shipwreck databases.
- Further Reading: Additional details can be found in archives like the Great Lakes Historical Society, NOAA’s Shipwreck Database, and Google Books related to Great Lakes shipwrecks.
CONCLUSION #
The wreck of the Edward Kean, or Little Wissahickon, is a testament to the perils faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes. Its tragic sinking, marked by the loss of three crew members, underscores the dangers inherent in maritime transport during the late 19th century. Today, the wreck serves as both a historical artifact and a memorial to those who perished, preserved for exploration and remembrance.
TAGS #
- Tags: #GreatLakes #Shipwrecks #LakeErie #MaritimeHistory #SchoonerBarge #EdwardKean #LittleWissahickon #DivingSites #HistoricalShipwreck #UnderwaterExploration
