Other Names #
- Battersby Wreck
The wreck of the schooner Sam Cooke, also known as the Battersby Island Wreck, is a fascinating dive site with a rich history. This three-masted schooner was built in Oswego, New York, in 1873. In 1882, while en route from Ogdensburg to Ashtabula, Ohio, the Cooke encountered adverse weather conditions and drifted towards Battersby Island. Despite efforts to anchor, the ship ran aground and became stranded.
Fortunately, no lives were lost during the incident. However, the cargo of iron ore and the ship’s fittings were salvaged after the grounding. The wreck of the Sam Cooke remains in the St. Lawrence River near Jones’ Narrows, about 3.5 miles above Brockville.
Over the years, several attempts were made to salvage the wreck and raise the vessel. The ship’s condition deteriorated, leading to various restoration efforts. In 1883, a wrecking expedition from Port Huron attempted to raise the Cooke, but challenges arose due to the strong currents and water depth.
Despite the salvage attempts, the Sam Cooke remained partially submerged for several years. However, in 1884, Captain F.I. Merryman succeeded in raising the ship after three years of abandonment. The vessel was then renamed “William Wheeler.”
As a dive site, the wreck of the Sam Cooke offers a unique opportunity to explore a historical shipwreck in the St. Lawrence River. Divers can expect to see the remnants of a 19th-century schooner, including the hull, masts, and other structures. The wreck lies in about 60 feet of water, making it accessible to experienced divers.
Divers should be aware that the wreck may have changed over time and should take necessary safety precautions while exploring the site. The visibility in the area is variable, ranging from 3-4 feet to around 15 feet below the surface. The water temperature can be chilly, and currents may be strong at times, so it’s essential to be prepared with appropriate diving gear and experience.
Diving at the Sam Cooke wreck offers a chance to witness maritime history firsthand and to discover artifacts from the ship’s past. Explorers may find remnants of the iron ore cargo, fittings, and possibly other items left behind during salvage operations. The presence of eels and various fish species adds to the unique underwater experience.
As with any dive, safety should be a priority, and divers are encouraged to follow local regulations and guidelines while exploring the Sam Cooke wreck. Additionally, being respectful of the site’s historical importance and avoiding any disturbance to artifacts is crucial to preserving the shipwreck for future generations of divers to appreciate.
