IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
HISTORY #
The wreck identified as Rochester 6 was part of the 2022 discoveries made by NOAA in Lake Ontario. This wreck, like Rochester 4 and Rochester 5, is believed to date back to the 19th or early 20th century, a time when the Great Lakes were a vital corridor for commerce and transportation.
While the exact identity of Rochester 6 remains unknown, it is likely a schooner or barge, reflecting the types of vessels that were most common in the area during that era. The discovery adds another piece to the puzzle of Lake Ontario’s maritime history, offering new opportunities for research and exploration.
The wreck lies in the depths near Rochester, a city that played a key role in the regional economy during the 1800s. The finding of Rochester 6 underscores the importance of continued efforts to locate, document, and preserve the many shipwrecks that lie hidden in the Great Lakes.
Legacy and Significance of the 2022 Discoveries #
The identification of Rochester 4, Rochester 5, and Rochester 6 by NOAA in 2022 represents a significant step forward in understanding the maritime history of Lake Ontario. Each of these wrecks provides a unique glimpse into the past, offering clues about the types of vessels that sailed these waters and the challenges they faced.
As unidentified wrecks, these sites serve as important archaeological resources. The process of identifying these wrecks could lead to the discovery of new historical information or the confirmation of existing records about shipwrecks in the area. These wrecks also remind us of the dangers that once accompanied maritime travel and commerce on the Great Lakes, where storms, collisions, and other hazards frequently claimed ships and lives.
The continued exploration and study of these wrecks will contribute to the preservation of the Great Lakes’ underwater cultural heritage, ensuring that the stories of these vessels and their crews are not forgotten.
References & Sources #
- NOAA Reports and Announcements (2022): Information regarding the discovery of the wrecks near Rochester, New York.
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes Website: Provides historical context and details about shipwrecks and maritime incidents in Lake Ontario.
- Great Lakes Shipwreck Research Database: A key resource for historical records related to shipwrecks, maritime disasters, and underwater archaeological finds in the Great Lakes region.