Charles B. Packard (Elfin-Mere)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Charles B. Packard
• Type: Bulk Freighter
• Year Built: 1887
• Builder: F. Wheeler, West Bay City, Michigan
• Dimensions: Length: 191 ft (58.2 m); Beam: 34 ft (10.4 m); Depth of hold: 21 ft (6.4 m)
• Registered Tonnage: Gross: 1054 tons; Net: 796 tons
• Depth at Wreck Site: 12 m / 40 ft
• Location: Colchester Shoal, Lake Erie, near Point Pelee
• Coordinates: 41° 55.221′ N, 82° 43.658′ W

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type: Bulk Freighter

Description

The Charles B. Packard, originally named Elfin-Mere, was a typical propeller-driven freighter built for cargo transport on the Great Lakes. It was constructed in 1887 by F. Wheeler in West Bay City, Michigan.

History

Built as Elfin-Mere in 1887, the vessel was designed for cargo transport. In 1901, it was almost entirely destroyed by fire while in Green Bay and underwent a complete rebuild. The vessel was renamed Charles B. Packard in 1902, reflecting its new ownership and role as a bulk freighter.

Significant Incidents

• On September 16, 1906, the Charles B. Packard sank after colliding with the wreckage of the schooner Armenia during a storm on Lake Erie.
• The vessel was en route to Chicago towing the barge Harold when it struck the submerged wreckage.
• No casualties were reported, but the crew escaped with only the clothes they were wearing.
• The first mate lost his shoes in the commotion.

Final Disposition

Salvage attempts were made following the sinking of the Charles B. Packard, but it was ultimately decided not to raise the vessel in 1906. The wreck remained abandoned on Colchester Shoal until it was dismantled and removed in 1913.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck site contains scattered remnants of the Packard and possibly some of the Armenia, though much of the vessel was dismantled. Located at a depth of 40 feet (12 meters), the site is accessible to divers, making it a popular destination for exploration.

Resources & Links

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The Charles B. Packard serves as a reminder of the dangers of navigating the Great Lakes and the challenges faced by vessels during its era. Its story contributes to the rich maritime heritage of Lake Erie and offers an intriguing dive site for exploration.