Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: B. S. Shepard
- Type: Wooden-hulled, three-masted bark
- Year Built: 1854
- Builder: Not documented
- Dimensions: Length: 172 ft (52.4 m); Beam: Not documented; Depth: Not documented
- Registered Tonnage: Not documented
- Location: Point Pelee, Ontario, Lake Erie
- Official Number: Not documented
- Original Owners: Not documented
- Number of Masts: Three
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Wooden-hulled, three-masted bark
Description
The B. S. Shepard was a wooden three-masted bark constructed in 1854. Measuring 172 feet in length, she was designed for bulk cargo transport across the Great Lakes. At the time of her loss, she was carrying a cargo of oats.
History
On October 20, 1863, the B. S. Shepard was navigating Lake Erie when she encountered fog and high seas near Point Pelee, Ontario. The vessel ran aground due to the poor visibility and adverse weather conditions. Initially, she was not severely damaged. However, during salvage operations, the vessel broke apart, resulting in a total loss. Specific details regarding the salvage efforts and the fate of her crew are not documented in available records.
Significant Incidents
- October 20, 1863: The B. S. Shepard ran aground near Point Pelee, Ontario, due to fog and high seas.
- During salvage operations, the vessel broke apart, resulting in a total loss.
Final Disposition
The B. S. Shepard broke apart during salvage operations after running aground near Point Pelee, Ontario. There is no record of successful salvage or recovery of the vessel. Her remains were likely left at the wreck site.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As of current records, there is no documentation indicating that the wreck of the B. S. Shepard has been located or explored by maritime archaeologists or divers.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”b-s-shepard-1854″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The loss of the B. S. Shepard underscores the challenges faced by maritime vessels on the Great Lakes during the 19th century, particularly those navigating in poor visibility and adverse weather conditions. Her wreck near Point Pelee, Ontario, adds to the numerous shipwrecks that have occurred in Lake Erie, contributing to the rich maritime history of the region. While the exact location of her wreck remains unknown, the B. S. Shepard’s story is a testament to the perils of lake navigation during that era.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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