Site Identification & Information #
Vessel Type Description #
The Charles Horn was a wooden-hulled schooner, built in 1867 in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, by William Bates. The vessel measured approximately 125 feet in length with a beam of 26 feet, a depth of 9 feet, and a gross tonnage of 243 tons. As a typical three-masted schooner of its time, the Charles Horn was designed primarily for carrying bulk cargoes such as grain, coal, and lumber across the Great Lakes.
History #
The Charles Horn had a relatively typical career as a working schooner on the Great Lakes, contributing to the bustling maritime commerce that characterized the late 19th century. The vessel’s routes frequently took it across the treacherous waters of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, where unpredictable weather and sudden storms often posed significant dangers to ships of its kind.
During its years of operation, the Charles Horn experienced several mishaps typical for vessels of its era, including groundings and minor collisions. However, it always managed to return to service after necessary repairs. Its sturdy construction and experienced crew ensured that it remained a reliable vessel for its owners, making regular voyages across the lakes.
Final Disposition #
The final voyage of the Charles Horn occurred in the late 19th century under unclear circumstances. It is believed that the vessel encountered a severe storm while traversing Lake Superior, which led to its disappearance. Despite efforts to locate the wreck, the Charles Horn has never been found, and its exact resting place remains a mystery.
The loss of the Charles Horn adds to the long list of shipwrecks on the Great Lakes, where unpredictable weather conditions and the challenges of navigation claimed many vessels. The ship’s disappearance serves as a reminder of the perils faced by mariners during the height of Great Lakes commerce.
Current Condition & Accessibility #
As the wreck of the Charles Horn has never been located, its current condition remains unknown. The vessel is presumed to lie at the bottom of Lake Superior or one of the other Great Lakes, where it likely remains in a state of preservation due to the cold freshwater environment.
Resources & Links #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive resource for shipwrecks and maritime history in the region.
- Great Lakes Shipwrecks Database: Database cataloging shipwrecks across the Great Lakes, providing valuable information for historians and divers.
The Charles Horn remains one of the many lost vessels of the Great Lakes, its story a testament to the dangers faced by sailors navigating these inland seas. The search for the Charles Horn continues to capture the imagination of maritime historians and divers alike, as it remains a part of the rich tapestry of Great Lakes maritime heritage
