Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Darien
- Type: Wooden Bulk Carrier (Iron Ore Schooner)
- Year Built: Likely mid-19th century
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: Not recorded; typical for small-tonnage ore schooners of the era (circa 50–200 tons)
- Depth at Wreck Site: 3.35 m / 11 ft
- Location: Stranded in ~11 feet of water—specific lake uncertain (likely Lake Michigan or Huron)
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
A small wooden iron-ore schooner engaged in regional bulk transport—typical of early Great Lakes ore traders using shallow-draft vessels before the advent of steel-hulled freighters.
Description
Though no plans or dimensions are extant, Darien matched mid-19th century shallow-draft ore schooners. Designed for short runs from small ore pits or ports, likely scow-schooner-style or simple flat-bottom hull to navigate shallow zones. Equipped for carrying heavy bulk ore in modest holds.
History
- Historical records beyond the Swayze-derived summary are absent. Database entry indicates:
- Loss: stranded and broke in two when grounded in shallow water (~11 ft) while carrying iron ore.
- Crew saved by U.S. lighthouse keepers—indicating proximity to a staffed lighthouse and coastal port region.
- No registry number, build date, ownership, or master data located in Swayze’s summaries or modern compilations.
Significant Incidents
- No Notices to Mariners listed; the wreck site remains unnamed on navigational charts.
- No official hazard bulletins or later references in hydrographic records.
Final Disposition
- Turned into two sections after grounding; left as a total loss.
- With no salvage documented, the wreck was abandoned in-place and likely remains buried or disintegrated in shallow water.
- No follow-up salvage, legal inquiry, or insurance outcome is recorded.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck remains uncharted and is likely buried or disintegrated in shallow water, with no recent assessments available.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”darien-pre-1870″ title=”References & Links”]
The Darien serves as a reminder of the risks faced by early ore schooners in the Great Lakes, highlighting the importance of maritime infrastructure in ensuring crew safety.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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