Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Carlotta (formerly Adrienne, Thora)
- Type: Gas Screw Vessel (originally a Sail Yacht, later a Fish Tug)
- Year Built: 1879
- Builder: Lawley & Son, Boston, Massachusetts
- Dimensions: Length: 39 ft (11.9 m); Beam: 14 ft (4.3 m); Depth of hold: 5 ft (1.5 m)
- Registered Tonnage: Gross: 14 tons; Net: 12 tons
- Location: Near Elmwood Beach, off Grand Island, Munising Bay, Lake Superior
- Official Number: 105834
- Original Owners: Benjamin Cowles of Buffalo, New York
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Carlotta began life in 1879 as a luxury sail yacht named Adrienne, constructed by Lawley & Son in Boston, Massachusetts. It was later converted to a gas screw vessel in 1910 and served as a fish tug. With its small size and utilitarian design after conversion, the Carlotta was well-suited for operations such as fishing and short-distance transportation.
Description
The Carlotta had a fascinating and varied life:
- 1879: Launched as the sail yacht Adrienne, built for leisure and showcasing craftsmanship.
- Later Years: Renamed Thora and later Carlotta, reflecting its evolving functions.
- 1910: Converted into a gas screw vessel, marking its transition from a luxurious yacht to a practical fish tug.
- 1911: Registered officially as the Carlotta under Benjamin Cowles of Buffalo, New York, with the official number 105834.
History
On August 27, 1913, while navigating near Elmwood Beach, off Grand Island in Munising Bay, Lake Superior, the Carlotta caught fire. The blaze consumed the vessel entirely. Fortunately, both individuals aboard survived, but the vessel was declared a total loss.
Significant Incidents
The Carlotta was destroyed by fire near Grand Island, Lake Superior. Its remains were not salvaged, and the vessel was rendered unsalvageable. The incident marked the end of its 34-year journey through varying roles and ownership.
Final Disposition
There are no current NOTMARs or advisories related to the Carlotta. Given its complete destruction by fire, the site poses no known hazards to navigation.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreckage of the Carlotta has not been formally located. The vessel was last reported near Elmwood Beach, off Grand Island, Munising Bay, Lake Superior, but no modern surveys or explorations have confirmed its location.
The total destruction of the Carlotta by fire suggests minimal remains, if any, are present. As such, the site holds more historical interest than archaeological or diving appeal. Any remnants would likely be difficult to locate or identify.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”carlotta-us-105834-adrienne-thora” title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The Carlotta, originally launched as the sail yacht Adrienne, evolved through multiple roles, including service as a fish tug, reflecting the changing demands on Great Lakes vessels. Its destruction by fire in 1913 near Grand Island marked a somber end to its diverse career. Although its physical remains may be scant, its story enriches the maritime history of Lake Superior, offering a glimpse into the lives of the vessels and sailors who traversed these waters.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
Join Shotline to read more →