JOHN B. MERRILL

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Identification & Site Information: #

Vessel Name: John B. Merrill
Vessel Type: Schooner
Dimensions: 200 feet in length
Depth of Wreck: 85 feet (30 meters)
Location: South of Drummond Island, Lake Huron (45°54.981’N, 83°43.912’W)
Date Built: 1873
Builder: Constructed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Final Voyage: October 14, 1893
Cargo: Not specifie

Vessel Type Description #

The John B. Merrill was a large three-masted schooner, a common vessel type on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Schooners were prized for their speed, maneuverability, and cargo capacity, making them a popular choice for transporting goods across the vast inland seas. The John B. Merrill was no exception, known for her elegance and speed, and she even won a notable race from Buffalo to Milwaukee in 1886, showcasing her sailing prowess.

History #

Launched in 1873, the John B. Merrill was a symbol of maritime craftsmanship and elegance. Measuring 189 feet in length, this Milwaukee-built schooner was designed for both speed and capacity. She quickly became a fixture on the Great Lakes, known for her ability to carry large cargoes efficiently and her success in competitive sailing.

The schooner’s most notable achievement was winning a race from Buffalo to Milwaukee in 1886, beating two other schooners in a thrilling contest that underscored her reputation as one of the finest vessels of her time.

However, the John B. Merrill’s storied career came to a tragic end on October 14, 1893. While under tow by the steamer F. E. Spinner, she encountered a violent storm. The storm’s intensity forced the steamer to cut the schooner loose, leaving the John B. Merrill to fend for herself in the treacherous waters. Captain and crew attempted to seek shelter in False Detour Passage, but the schooner ran aground on a shoal south of Drummond Island near the entrance to the DeTour Passage.

The powerful storm proved too much for the vessel, and she eventually broke apart and sank. The loss of the John B. Merrill marked another casualty in the long history of shipwrecks on the Great Lakes, a region known for its sudden and often deadly storms.

Final Disposition #

The wreckage of the John B. Merrill lies scattered in the waters off Drummond Island in Lake Huron. The remains of the schooner extend over an area of approximately 100 feet by 200 feet, resting at depths ranging from 35 to 85 feet. Although the vessel is broken apart, the graceful lines of the hull are still visible, offering a glimpse into the schooner’s former glory.

One of the most poignant aspects of the wreck site is the presence of the stern with the name board still attached, a solemn reminder of the ship’s identity and the lives it once supported. Artifacts such as tools, ship’s hardware, and personal effects can be found amidst the wreckage, providing insights into the daily operations and life aboard the vessel. The capstan and windlass, crucial components of the ship’s operational mechanism, remain intact, adding to the site’s historical significance.

NOTMARs & Advisories #

There are currently no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) directly associated with the wreck of the John B. Merrill. However, divers should exercise caution when exploring the site, as the depth and the fragmented nature of the wreck can present challenges.

Located By & Date #

The wreck of the John B. Merrill has been known to local divers and historians for many years. Its location has been documented, and it remains a popular dive site for those interested in the maritime history of the Great Lakes.

Resources & Links #

Conclusion #

The wreck of the John B. Merrill offers a fascinating window into the history of Great Lakes shipping during the late 19th century. As a schooner that epitomized the grace and power of sailing vessels of its time, her story is one of triumph and tragedy. The remnants of the John B. Merrill serve as a testament to the perils of maritime life on the Great Lakes and offer modern explorers a chance to connect with the past through the artifacts and structure left behind.