Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Bahama
- Type: Three-Masted Wooden Schooner-Barge
- Year Built: 1863
- Builder: George Goble, Oswego, NY
- Dimensions: Length: 136 ft (41.45 m); Beam: 26 ft (7.92 m); Depth: 13 ft (3.96 m)
- Registered Tonnage: Gross: 333 tons; Net: 317 tons
- Location: Lake Erie
- Official Number: US 2380
- Original Owners: T. S. Mott; Clark & Parker; Patrick Boylan; N. Mills; Philo Bemis; Hughes Bros. & Bangs (Final Owners)
- Number of Masts: Three
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Bahama was a three-masted wooden schooner-barge, primarily used for transporting bulk freight across the Great Lakes.
Description
The schooner-barge Bahama was constructed in 1863 and played a significant role in the economic development of the Great Lakes region. It was built by George Goble in Oswego, New York, and was known for its sturdy design and operational versatility.
History
The Bahama’s operational history includes several notable incidents, including a collision with the E.P. Ryerse in September 1874, where it sustained damage but remained afloat. In the 1890s, it faced multiple challenges, including being declared a total loss in 1893 after a storm on Lake Huron and reportedly foundering near Alpena in 1895, although it was salvaged afterward. The vessel was ultimately converted into a stone barge and suffered a catastrophic structural failure in May 1903, leading to its sinking and subsequent dynamiting to clear navigational waters.
Significant Incidents
- Collision with the E.P. Ryerse (September 1874): The Bahama collided with the E.P. Ryerse, causing the latter to sink while the Bahama sustained damage but remained afloat.
- Reported Losses in the 1890s: The Bahama faced several incidents, including being declared a total loss in 1893 and reportedly foundering near Alpena in 1895.
- Final Incidents and Ultimate Fate (1903): In May 1903, the Bahama suffered a structural failure and sank after departing Windmill Point, Ontario, leading to its destruction by dynamite.
Final Disposition
The Bahama was dynamited to clear the wreck from navigational waters after its sinking in 1903. Conflicting accounts exist regarding its fate, with some records suggesting it was lost at the Cleveland breakwater or abandoned in 1904.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the Bahama is no longer present as it was destroyed by dynamite. The site where it sank is now clear for navigation.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”bahama-us-2380″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The Bahama’s storied career reflects the dynamic and often perilous nature of maritime commerce on the Great Lakes. Despite surviving numerous incidents, its structural failure in 1903 marked the end of its service, highlighting the importance of maintaining safe waterways.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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