David Sharp (1867)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: David Sharp
• Type: Wooden two-masted schooner
• Year Built: circa 1867
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: Lake Erie, approximately 20 miles upstream (west) of the Grand River near Port Burwell, Ontario
• Original Owners: Kingsville, Ontario
• Number of Masts: Two

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Type: Wooden two-masted schooner, built circa 1867

Home Port: Kingsville, Ontario

Cargo: Loaded with railroad ties, bound for Buffalo

Description

The David Sharp was a wooden two-masted schooner that met its fate during a fierce gale on September 8, 1878. The vessel became waterlogged and capsized, leaving only about 2 feet of her hull above water.

History

The David Sharp was carrying railroad ties when it encountered a severe storm on Lake Erie. Aboard were the captain, his wife, their 17-month-old child, and four crewmen. They survived an 11-hour ordeal clinging to the upturned hull before being rescued by the schooner Dundee.

Significant Incidents

• September 8, 1878: The David Sharp capsized during a storm on Lake Erie, approximately 20 miles upstream of the Grand River near Port Burwell, Ontario.
• The crew survived by clinging to the exposed side of the upturned hull for nearly 11 hours.
• Rescue was conducted by the schooner Dundee, which found the captain’s wife and child in a severely weakened state.

Final Disposition

After the rescue, the capsized hull likely sank or grounded soon after. It may still lie in shallow waters near the incident site, possibly buried under sediment. No formal identification of the wreck site has been recorded by NOAA or other maritime heritage agencies.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck site remains unconfirmed, suggesting potential for discovery. The hull may be partially buried under sediment in shallow Lake Erie waters.

Resources & Links

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The David Sharp exemplifies the endurance and bravery of its crew during a storm, highlighting the domestic roles of schooners in the late 19th century and presenting opportunities for further research and exploration.