Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Britannia
- Type: Two-Masted Wooden Schooner
- Year Built: 1860
- Builder: D. Foster
- Dimensions: Length: 87 ft (26.5 m); Beam: 21 ft (6.4 m); Depth of hold: 7 ft (2.1 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 124 tons
- Location: Near Cleveland, Lake Erie
- Number of Masts: 2
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Britannia was a two-masted wooden schooner, a common vessel type used for cargo transport on the Great Lakes during the 19th century.
Description
The Britannia was constructed in 1860 by shipbuilder D. Foster in Port Ryerse, Ontario. It measured 87 feet in length, with a beam of 21 feet and a depth of 7 feet. The vessel had a gross tonnage of 124 tons and a net tonnage of 118 tons, making it a capable cargo carrier for its time.
History
The Britannia served in the bustling maritime trade of the Great Lakes, transporting goods such as wheat and other bulk cargoes across the region. On October 30, 1870, the Britannia encountered a severe storm while sailing near Cleveland on Lake Erie, which ultimately led to its wrecking.
Significant Incidents
- In October 1866, while carrying a cargo of wheat on Lake Erie, the Britannia experienced damage to some of its cargo, resulting in an estimated property loss of $1,000.
- During the storm on October 30, 1870, crew member Alonza Grant was severely injured, leading to the amputation of his leg.
Final Disposition
After the storm, the Britannia was stripped of its valuable parts and abandoned by November 8, 1870. Its current condition and exact location are unknown.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the Britannia has been stripped and abandoned, leaving little trace of its existence. Continuous monitoring of maritime history archives may provide further insights into its condition.
Resources & Links
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The story of the Britannia serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by sailors on the Great Lakes. While the vessel was ultimately lost to the storm, its legacy continues through historical records and ongoing research into maritime history.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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