Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Barcelona
- Type: Coal Barge / Schooner-Barge
- Year Built: 1890-1910
- Builder:
- Dimensions: 130 ft (estimated); Beam: 30 ft; Depth of hold: unknown
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 44.2 m / 145 ft
- Location: Lake Erie corridor, near Cleveland-Buffalo area
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Barcelona is identified as a transitional-era coal barge or schooner-barge, likely designed for bulk coal carriage and shallow draft.
Description
The wreck is located at a depth of 145 ft with a south-north orientation. It features a stern that is beautifully rounded and sharply undercut, with a large intact wheel and steering gear. The rudder is turned hard to port, and machinery hatch openings, pumps, and a capstan remain in place. The vessel has a single continuous cargo hatch that spans two-thirds of its length, divided into five holds, which contain remnants of coal. The windlass and tow bit are intact, and anchors are still secured at the bow. The wreck exhibits metal framing hints, possible partial metal sheathing, and turnbuckles on the starboard gunwale, suggesting mast rigging. The decking, gunwale framing, and hull are well-preserved.
History
The Barcelona is believed to have been built between 1890 and 1910, designed for bulk coal carriage. It may have foundered slowly, allowing for the preservation of its intact deck and gear, and sank gently without violent impact.
Significant Incidents
- Wreck discovered on July 24, 1980.
Final Disposition
The wreck remains unidentified, with compelling structural and cargo clues suggesting it is a transitional-era coal barge or schooner-barge. Its remarkably intact condition and lack of modern salvage signs provide insight into early 20th-century small cargo vessel construction and operation.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck is in a confirmed state, with no signs of modern salvage. It is accessible for diving, offering a unique opportunity to explore a well-preserved historical vessel.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”barcelona-wreck” title=”References & Links”]
Further research is recommended to compile a list of vessels lost in the Lake Erie corridor between 1890 and 1910 that match the wreck’s characteristics.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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