Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Collingwood
- Type: Schooner
- Year Built: 1855
- Builder: Unknown
- Dimensions:
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Approximately 25 miles northeast of Milwaukee, Lake Michigan
- Number of Masts: Two or three masts likely
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Collingwood was a wooden schooner, a prevalent vessel type on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Schooners were primarily used for transporting bulk cargo such as lumber, coal, and grain across the interconnected waterways.
Description
Specific details regarding the Collingwood‘s construction, dimensions, and ownership are scarce. As a schooner operating on Lake Michigan in the mid-1800s, it likely featured two or three masts and was designed for cargo transport.
History
On November 23, 1882, the Collingwood was en route from St. Helena to Chicago, laden with cedar posts and telegraph poles. Approximately 25 miles northeast of Milwaukee, the vessel became waterlogged during a severe gale. As she foundered, her cabin was washed off, spars were lost, the centerboard chain broke, and she ultimately broke in two. Tragically, the captain and three crew members perished, last seen clinging to cedar posts in the frigid waters.
Significant Incidents
- The Collingwood sank in Lake Michigan on November 23, 1882, during a severe gale.
- The vessel became waterlogged, leading to structural failure.
- Four lives were lost, including the captain and three crew members.
Final Disposition
The Collingwood sank in Lake Michigan on November 23, 1882, approximately 25 miles northeast of Milwaukee. The exact location of the wreck has not been documented in available historical records.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As of current knowledge, the wreck of the Collingwood has not been located or identified.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”collingwood-1875″ title=”References & Links”]
The sinking of the Collingwood in 1882 adds to the extensive history of maritime incidents on Lake Michigan. While specific details about the vessel and the circumstances of its sinking are limited, the loss of life underscores the perilous nature of Great Lakes navigation during that era. Further research in specialized maritime archives or local historical societies may provide additional insights into the Collingwood and its final voyage.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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