Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

A. Rossetter

Explore the wreck of the A. Rossetter, a 19th-century schooner lost in Lake Michigan. A significant part of maritime heritage, it awaits rediscovery.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: A. Rossetter
  • Type: Schooner
  • Year Built: 1847
  • Builder:
  • Dimensions: Length: Not specified; Beam: Not specified; Depth of hold: Not specified
  • Registered Tonnage: Not available
  • Location: Michigan shore, en route from Chicago to St. Joseph
  • Official Number: Not available
  • Original Owners: Not specified
  • Number of Masts: Two

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type
Wooden schooner

Description

Description
The A. ROSSETTER was a mid-19th-century wooden schooner built in 1847. While specific dimensions are not documented, schooners of this period often measured between 60 to 100 feet (18 to 30 metres) in length and were designed for regional transport across the Great Lakes. These vessels typically featured two masts and shallow drafts, suitable for lake harbours.

History

History
The schooner A. ROSSETTER was engaged in regular commercial trade along the southern basin of Lake Michigan, particularly between Chicago, Illinois and St. Joseph, Michigan. This route was crucial in the mid-1800s for moving lumber, produce, and goods between expanding urban and frontier communities.

Significant Incidents

Significant Incidents
– Stranded and wrecked on October 11, 1855, along the Michigan shore while en route from Chicago to St. Joseph.
– No casualties were reported.

Final Disposition

Final Disposition
On October 11, 1855, the A. ROSSETTER stranded and wrecked along the Michigan shore while en route from Chicago to St. Joseph. The circumstances point to a storm or adverse weather conditions, although the exact nature of the event is not clearly recorded. The wreck was considered a total loss and not recovered.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Current Condition & Accessibility
There are no known records of the A. ROSSETTER being located, and no modern surveys have confirmed the wreck’s position. No navigational warnings or NOTMARs are associated with this site.

Resources & Links

Resources & Links
– Great Lakes Shipwreck Files: https://greatlakesrex.wordpress.com/r/