Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Belle Stevens
- Type: Schooner
- Year Built: 1861
- Builder: Not specified
- Dimensions: Not specified
- Registered Tonnage: Not specified
- Location: Lake Michigan
- Coordinates: Not publicly disclosed
- Official Number: Not available
- Original Owners: Not specified
- Number of Masts: Not specified
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Belle Stevens was a wooden-hulled schooner, a common vessel type on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Schooners were favored for their cargo capacity and maneuverability, making them ideal for transporting bulk goods such as lumber, grain, and other commodities across the lakes.
Description
Built in 1861, the Belle Stevens was designed for the lumber trade, a significant industry in the Great Lakes region during that era. While specific dimensions and tonnage are not available, schooners of this type typically ranged from 60 to 150 feet (18 to 46 meters) in length and were constructed to handle the challenging conditions of the lakes.
History
On November 1, 1890, the Belle Stevens was navigating Lake Michigan with a cargo of lumber and shingles. During a severe gale, the vessel went ashore and broke up, resulting in a total loss. Details regarding the crew and any potential casualties are not specified in the available records. The incident underscores the perils faced by maritime operations on the Great Lakes, where sudden and intense storms could quickly overwhelm vessels.
Significant Incidents
- November 1, 1890: The Belle Stevens went ashore during a gale and broke up, resulting in a total loss.
Final Disposition
Following the incident, the Belle Stevens was declared a total loss. There is no available information regarding salvage operations or the current state of the wreck.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As of current records, there is no publicly available information indicating that the wreck of the Belle Stevens has been located or surveyed.
Resources & Links
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The loss of the Belle Stevens in 1890 highlights the challenges faced by maritime operations on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Despite advancements in shipbuilding and navigation, vessels remained vulnerable to the region’s unpredictable and often severe weather conditions. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of continued vigilance and respect for the power of nature in maritime activities.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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