Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

Addie US 105168

Explore the wreck of the ADDIE, a 19th-century schooner lost in a storm on Lake Michigan, known for its role in coastal trade.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: ADDIE
  • Type: Schooner, Wood, 2-Mast
  • Year Built: 1872
  • Builder: J. Randall
  • Dimensions: Length: 64 ft (19.5 m); Beam: 16 ft (4.9 m); Depth of hold: 5 ft (1.5 m)
  • Registered Tonnage: 30 tons
  • Location: Near Frankfort, Michigan, Lake Michigan
  • Official Number: 105168
  • Number of Masts: 2

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The ADDIE was a small, two-masted wooden schooner, commonly used for coastal trade on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. Schooners of this size were often employed in transporting light cargo, personal goods, or specialized shipments between growing towns and cities along the shores of Lake Michigan. Their size and maneuverability made them well-suited for navigating tight harbors and shallow waters.

Description

Launched in 1872 from Benton Harbor, Michigan, the ADDIE spent over two decades serving the bustling maritime trade routes of Lake Michigan. The schooner frequently transported household goods and other small cargoes between ports, playing a key role in supporting the growing settlements along the lakeshore.

Despite its hardworking nature, the ADDIE experienced several incidents during its service:

  • 1877: The schooner was shoved between rows of pilings at Lakeside, Michigan, causing heavy damage.
  • 1882: Following extensive wear and damage, the ADDIE was rebuilt, extending her operational life.
  • 1887: The vessel was wrecked and temporarily abandoned near Muskegon, Michigan, but was salvaged and returned to service.

These incidents illustrate the challenges faced by smaller schooners navigating the unpredictable waters of the Great Lakes.

History

On October 5, 1897, the ADDIE encountered a severe storm near Frankfort, Michigan. The details surrounding the schooner’s sinking are sparse, but it is known that she was carrying household goods at the time. The storm overwhelmed the vessel, leading to her loss. There is no clear documentation regarding the loss of life, but smaller schooners typically operated with minimal crew, increasing the risk during harsh weather conditions.

Significant Incidents

  • NOTMARs: No current Notices to Mariners for this wreck.
  • Advisories: Mariners and divers near Frankfort, Michigan should exercise caution due to potential underwater obstructions from historical wrecks.

Final Disposition

The ADDIE represents the resilience and challenges faced by small trading vessels on Lake Michigan during the late 19th century. Despite multiple incidents and rebuilds, the schooner continued to serve for over 25 years, contributing to the vital flow of goods and supplies along the lakeshore communities. Her eventual loss near Frankfort in 1897 reflects the unpredictable nature of Great Lakes weather and the inherent dangers of maritime life during that period.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Located By: No official discovery recorded.
Date Found: The wreck site remains unidentified.

Resources & Links

The schooner ADDIE represents the resilience and challenges faced by small trading vessels on Lake Michigan during the late 19th century. Despite multiple incidents and rebuilds, the schooner continued to serve for over 25 years, contributing to the vital flow of goods and supplies along the lakeshore communities. Her eventual loss near Frankfort in 1897 reflects the unpredictable nature of Great Lakes weather and the inherent dangers of maritime life during that period.