Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Colonel Ellsworth
- Type: Schooner
- Year Built: 1861
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length: 139 ft (42.37 m); Width: 26 ft (7.92 m); Depth: 12 ft (3.66 m)
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 25.91 m / 85 ft
- Location: Lake Michigan, Michigan
- Coordinates: N 45° 48.743′, W 085° 01.056′
- Official Number: 4354
- Number of Masts: Unknown
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Colonel Ellsworth was a wooden schooner, a type of vessel commonly used for cargo transport on the Great Lakes during the 19th century.
Description
The wreck of the Colonel Ellsworth is heavily broken but remains largely complete, with most pieces located at the site. Key features include the rudder, windlass, centerboard winch, and catheads. Notably, the ship’s wheel and anchors are absent. Despite its broken state, the site provides valuable insight into schooner construction and remains a point of interest for divers.
History
The Colonel Ellsworth was built in 1861 and served for 35 years, likely carrying lumber, grain, or other commodities essential to the region’s economy. It sank in 1896 under circumstances that are not well documented but may have involved adverse weather or navigational hazards. The Colonel Ellsworth’s remains now contribute to the rich underwater heritage of Lake Michigan.
Significant Incidents
- Sank in 1896, possibly due to adverse weather or navigational hazards.
Final Disposition
The wreck is confirmed and remains a significant site for underwater archaeology, providing insights into the maritime history of the Great Lakes.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The site’s depth of 85 ft is suitable for advanced recreational divers. Visibility can vary depending on seasonal conditions in Lake Michigan. Divers should exercise caution and avoid further disturbing the site to preserve its historical integrity.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”colonel-ellsworth-us-4354″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The Colonel Ellsworth’s remains serve as an enduring testament to the maritime history of the Great Lakes and offer a unique opportunity for divers to explore the legacy of schooner shipping.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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