Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: DORCAS PENDELL
- Type: Wooden Schooner
- Year Built: 1884
- Builder: East Saginaw, Michigan
- Dimensions: Length: 148.0 ft (45.11 m); Beam: 30.9 ft; Depth of hold: 11.0 ft
- Registered Tonnage: Gross: 407 tons; Net: 389 tons
- Location: Harbor Beach, Lake Huron
- Coordinates: 43.8443, -82.6467
- Official Number: 157124
- Number of Masts: 3
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The DORCAS PENDELL was a wooden schooner, a type of sailing vessel widely used on the Great Lakes in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Schooners like the DORCAS PENDELL were designed for cargo transport and were vital to regional commerce. This three-masted schooner, with its robust wooden hull, exemplified the design and construction typical of its time, optimized for stability and carrying capacity.
Description
The DORCAS PENDELL was built in East Saginaw, Michigan, in 1884. With its gross tonnage of 407 tons, the schooner was employed in freight transport across the Great Lakes, carrying a variety of goods such as lumber, coal, and grain. Over its 30-year career, the vessel was an active participant in the bustling trade networks of the region.
History
On January 5, 1914, the schooner met its unfortunate end at Harbor Beach, a key harbor on Lake Huron known for its protective breakwall and lighthouse. The DORCAS PENDELL caught fire while docked, leading to the vessel’s total destruction. Despite the severity of the fire, all six crew members on board were successfully rescued, and there were no fatalities.
Significant Incidents
- January 5, 1914: The DORCAS PENDELL caught fire while docked at Harbor Beach, resulting in its total destruction.
Final Disposition
The fire completely destroyed the DORCAS PENDELL. The remnants of the schooner likely settled in the harbor area or were cleared following the incident. While the vessel’s final location in Harbor Beach is not documented, the fire marked the end of its service.
Current Condition & Accessibility
There is no record of the wreck site being officially located or surveyed, making it a potential area of interest for underwater archaeologists or maritime historians. The harbor is an active area, and care should be taken when exploring underwater in this region.
Resources & Links
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As a part of the maritime history of the Great Lakes, the DORCAS PENDELL serves as a reminder of the risks faced by sailors and the importance of preserving these historical sites. Divers are encouraged to respect the underwater environment and adhere to ethical practices, leaving only bubbles and taking only memories.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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