Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: E. Cohen
- Type: Schooner-Barge (formerly Brigantine)
- Year Built: 1867
- Builder: Henry D. Root, Black River, Ohio
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: 205 tons
- Location: Port Hope Reef, Michigan
- Coordinates: unknown
- Original Owners: Multiple owners over its service life
- Number of Masts: Schooner-barge configuration
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The E. COHEN was initially constructed as a brigantine in 1867. As a versatile and popular rig type, brigantines combined the maneuverability of schooners with the sail power of square-rigged ships, making them suitable for both open water and coastal trade. Over time, the E. COHEN underwent multiple transitions, including modifications and repairs, eventually being transformed into a schooner-barge.
Description
The E. COHEN faced several significant incidents throughout its service history. Shortly after its construction, it grounded at Devil’s River in Alpena, Michigan, while carrying a load of lumber, requiring repairs in May 1867. After a severe stranding incident on Lake Erie in 1877, it was thought to be a total loss and was dismantled for use as an unrigged barge in Buffalo in 1878. However, it was salvaged and returned to service in September 1878 under the guidance of Captain Michael Carr and Cornelius McCarty.
On October 18, 1890, while in tow by the steamer EIGHTH OHIO, the E. COHEN encountered adverse conditions near Port Hope Reef, Michigan, and ran aground, leading to its declaration as a total loss. At the time, it was carrying a valuable cargo of lumber and lath bound for Toledo, valued at $6,500.
History
The E. COHEN’s service history is marked by resilience and adaptability. After its initial construction, it changed ownership multiple times and underwent significant repairs and conversions. By 1884, it was listed as an unrigged barge, reflecting a shift in its operational use. The vessel’s transformation from brigantine to barge illustrates the adaptability of Great Lakes vessels, which were frequently repurposed to meet changing demands.
Significant Incidents
- Grounded at Devil’s River in Alpena, Michigan (1867)
- Stranded on Lake Erie (1877)
- Declared a total loss after grounding near Port Hope Reef, Michigan (1890)
Final Disposition
The E. COHEN was declared a total loss after running aground on October 18, 1890. Fortunately, the Point Aux Barques Lifesaving Service arrived in time to rescue the crew, ensuring no lives were lost in the incident.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the E. COHEN wreck is unknown, as it was declared a total loss in 1890. Divers are encouraged to respect the site and engage in no-touch documentation methods, leaving only bubbles and taking only memories.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”e-cohen” title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The history of the E. COHEN reflects the resilience of Great Lakes vessels and the maritime industry’s adaptability in the face of repeated challenges. Despite multiple strandings and damages, the E. COHEN was salvaged and returned to service, underscoring the determination of its crew and owners. The vessel’s final loss in 1890 near Port Hope Reef, Michigan, closed the chapter on a schooner-barge that had become a symbol of perseverance on the Great Lakes.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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