Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Bolivar
- Type: Wooden Schooner
- Year Built: 1825
- Builder: Erie, Pennsylvania
- Dimensions: Length: 68 ft (20.7 m); Beam: 17 ft 4 in (5.3 m); Depth of hold: 5 ft 8 ½ in (1.7 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 60 tons
- Location: Near Presqu’ile, Canadian side, Lake Ontario
- Original Owners: Sheldon Thompson, George Miles Jr.
- Number of Masts: 2
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Bolivar was a wooden schooner equipped with two masts, designed for freight transport across the Great Lakes. Typical of the period, it was constructed from timber, which allowed for a balance of durability and ease of repair. The Bolivar’s modest size and 60-ton capacity made it an efficient workhorse for carrying various goods, notably salt.
Description
The Bolivar launched in 1825, serving the vital Great Lakes trade routes. Over its operational life, it changed ownership multiple times, including several prominent merchants and shipping figures, Sheldon Thompson and George Miles Jr. The schooner played a crucial role in transporting essential goods, including salt, which was a primary cargo in its final voyage.
History
On its ill-fated journey in November 1839, the Bolivar departed Oswego, New York, headed for Lake Erie. A fierce storm struck as the vessel crossed Lake Ontario, forcing it aground near Presqu’ile on the Canadian side. Despite the crew’s rescue by a passing Canadian steamboat and other towing efforts, the Bolivar was never repaired. Its last registration in May 1839, in Cleveland, Ohio, suggests that it ceased operations after the incident.
Significant Incidents
- Grounded near Presqu’ile during a November storm in 1839.
- Rescue of the crew by a passing Canadian steamboat.
- Last registration in May 1839, indicating cessation of operations.
Final Disposition
The Bolivar was grounded near Presqu’ile during a November storm in 1839 and later towed into Presque Isle. The damage rendered it beyond salvage, and no records show its return to service.
Current Condition & Accessibility
No known remnants of the Bolivar have been extensively documented. While its grounding site near Presqu’ile is of historical interest, the current condition of any remains is uncertain.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”bolivar-1825″ title=”References & Links”]
The Bolivar remains a significant part of maritime history in the Great Lakes, representing the challenges faced by early shipping vessels in the region.
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