IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
2. VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The J.S. Austin was a three-masted bark, a common sailing vessel during the mid-19th century. It was designed to handle heavy cargo, such as timber, which it frequently transported across the Great Lakes and even on transatlantic voyages to England. The ship was robustly built, a characteristic that made it suitable for long and demanding journeys.
3. HISTORY #
The J.S. Austin was launched in 1863 and was owned by Ryerse & Austin, with an estimated value of $15,000. It quickly became known for its reliable service, particularly in transporting timber and other valuable cargoes. In 1876, the vessel secured lucrative contracts to transport pine timber from Lake Huron to England and deals from Lake Michigan ports to Liverpool, each contract valued at $5,500 in gold. However, the ship’s final journey was marred by mechanical failures and crew concerns, leading to the abandonment of the transatlantic voyage and its return to Quebec.
4. FINAL DISPOSITION #
On its last recorded voyage in 1876, the J.S. Austin encountered a jammed centerboard while navigating the open waters. The crew, consisting of experienced salt-water seamen, was alarmed by the situation, rendering them ineffective in assisting the captain. Consequently, the captain decided to abandon the trip and return to Quebec, where the ship unloaded its cargo. Despite the failed voyage, the vessel was compensated $8 in gold for transporting cargo from Green Bay to Quebec. The vessel’s subsequent history is less documented, with ownership eventually returning to Canada in 1898.
5. NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the wreck of the J.S. Austin.
6. LOCATED BY & DATE #
No specific information on the discovery or current location of the J.S. Austin wreck has been provided.
7. CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The condition of the J.S. Austin wreck remains undocumented. Its accessibility for diving or research is unknown and would require further exploration and confirmation.
8. RESOURCES & LINKS #
9. ADDITIONAL NOTES #
The J.S. Austin underwent several name changes throughout its career, reflecting its various owners and ports of registry. This vessel serves as a fascinating example of the complex maritime history of the Great Lakes region, where ships often changed hands and nationalities, adapting to new roles and routes as needed. Its rich history highlights the economic significance of the Great Lakes as a vital transportation corridor during the 19th century.
10. DIVING NOTES & RECOMMENDATIONS #
Given the lack of precise information regarding the location and condition of the wreck, any potential diving expeditions should proceed with caution. It is recommended that interested divers coordinate with local diving clubs or historical societies, such as those associated with the Maritime History of the Great Lakes, to gather more information and ensure safe and responsible diving practices. If the wreck were to be located, it could provide a valuable site for both historical research and underwater exploration, contributing further to our understanding of Great Lakes maritime history.
