Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: C. Michelson
- Type: Wooden schooner
- Year Built: 1867
- Builder: Details not specified
- Dimensions: Not specified
- Registered Tonnage: Not specified
- Location: Lake Michigan, Michigan
- Coordinates: Not documented
- Official Number: Not documented
- Original Owners: Not documented
- Number of Masts: Not documented
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The C. Michelson was a wooden schooner, a prevalent vessel type on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Schooners were integral to maritime commerce, facilitating the transport of bulk commodities such as lumber, iron ore, and grain across the lakes.
Description
Constructed in 1867, the C. Michelson was designed for the rigorous demands of Great Lakes shipping. While specific dimensions and tonnage are not documented, schooners of this era typically ranged from 100 to 150 feet (30 to 45 meters) in length and were built with robust wooden hulls to withstand the challenging conditions of the lakes.
History
On October 20, 1901, the C. Michelson was en route with a cargo of 20,000 board feet of lumber when she encountered a severe storm on Lake Michigan. The vessel was overwhelmed by the storm’s intensity and was driven ashore. Despite the perilous conditions, the crew managed to reach the shore safely, and no casualties were reported in the incident.
Significant Incidents
- October 20, 1901: The C. Michelson was overwhelmed by a storm and driven ashore while carrying a cargo of lumber. No loss of life was reported.
Final Disposition
Following the incident, the C. Michelson was declared a total loss. There is no documented evidence of salvage operations or recovery of the vessel. Given the circumstances and the era, it is likely that the remains of the vessel deteriorated over time or were reclaimed by the lake.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As of current records, there is no documentation indicating that the wreck of the C. Michelson has been located or surveyed by maritime archaeologists or divers. The exact coordinates of the wreck remain unknown.
Resources & Links
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The loss of the C. Michelson underscores the perils faced by 19th-century mariners on the Great Lakes, particularly those engaged in the transport of heavy cargoes like lumber. Her story contributes to the rich maritime history of the region, highlighting the importance of schooners in the economic development of the Great Lakes and the challenges they faced in their service.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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