IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: The JACQUILINE was a wooden car ferry designed to transport vehicles and passengers across the waters of the Great Lakes, specifically in the North Channel of Lake Huron. The construction details, including the year it was built, its builders, and original owners, remain undocumented, but it played a crucial role in connecting remote communities by providing an essential transportation link.
HISTORY: The JACQUILINE operated as a car ferry, likely serving the small towns and communities along the North Channel. The ferry would have been a vital asset for the local population, facilitating the movement of vehicles and goods across the often-challenging waters of Lake Huron. Car ferries like the JACQUILINE were common in the Great Lakes region during the early to mid-20th century, providing an essential service before the widespread development of road networks and bridges.
FINAL DISPOSITION: The JACQUILINE met its demise in the North Channel, where it now rests in shallow water at a depth of 12 feet (4 meters). The exact circumstances surrounding the sinking of the ferry are not detailed in available records. However, given its shallow resting place, it is likely that the ferry may have encountered issues such as grounding, leaks, or damage from rough weather, leading to its eventual sinking.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories are currently in effect related to the wreck of the JACQUILINE. The shallow depth of the wreck makes it relatively accessible, but divers and boaters should still exercise caution in the area to avoid potential hazards.
LOCATED BY & DATE: The wreck of the JACQUILINE is located in the North Channel of Lake Huron, at coordinates N46 05.067, W082 13.208. The site is easily accessible due to its shallow depth, and it may be of interest to recreational divers and historians.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY: The JACQUILINE lies in 12 feet (4 meters) of water, making it one of the more accessible wrecks in the area. The shallow depth means that much of the wreck may still be visible, though the condition of the vessel may have deteriorated over time due to exposure to the elements and natural decay processes. The wreck is likely to be a popular site for snorkelers and beginner divers, given its easy access.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
- Great Lakes Ships: Great Lakes Ships
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- Bowling Green State University: Historical Collections of the Great Lakes
KEYWORDS: JACQUILINE, Car Ferry, North Channel, Lake Huron, Shipwreck, Great Lakes, Maritime History
CONCLUSION: The JACQUILINE is a significant part of the maritime history of the North Channel and Lake Huron. As a car ferry, it played an essential role in connecting communities and facilitating transportation in the region. Its wreck, now resting in shallow waters, offers a glimpse into the past and serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes. The JACQUILINE remains a point of interest for divers, historians, and maritime enthusiasts alike.
