Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: F.H. Prince
• Type: Wooden Package Freight Vessel / Sand Dredge
• Year Built: 1890
• Builder: Detroit Shipbuilding Company, Detroit, Michigan
• Dimensions: Length: 240 ft (73.2 m); Beam: 42 ft (12.8 m); Depth: 23.4 ft (7.1 m)
• Registered Tonnage: 2,047
• Depth at Wreck Site: 6 m / 18 ft
• Location: East side of Kelley’s Island, Lake Erie
• Coordinates: N 41° 36.240′, W 82° 40.520′
• Official Number: 120797
• Original Owners: Rutland Transportation Company (original), later converted under new ownership
• Number of Masts: Not specified

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Originally a wooden package freight vessel, the F. H. Prince was later converted into a sand dredge in 1911.

Description

Construction and Early Years

The F. H. Prince was built in 1890 for the Rutland Transportation Company of Ogdensburg, New York, to serve in the package freight trade on the Great Lakes. It was a steam-powered wooden ship designed to carry large volumes of cargo efficiently.

By 1911, the vessel was converted into a sand dredge under new ownership, reflecting the versatility of Great Lakes vessels during this period.

Final Incident and Sinking

On August 8, 1911, while operating as a sand dredge near Kelley’s Island, a fire broke out aboard the F. H. Prince. The crew managed to beach the vessel on the island’s east side to prevent further damage or loss of life. Despite the fire being controlled, it reignited on August 14, 1911, completely destroying the ship. The total loss was estimated at $50,000, a significant sum at the time.

History

Site and Features

Remains:

• Wreckage includes the propeller shaft and other metal components.
• Located near the Kelley’s Island landing strip for small planes.

Depth: Shallow site at 18 ft (6 m), accessible to novice divers and snorkelers.

Historical Significance:

The F. H. Prince is a testament to the dynamic use of vessels on the Great Lakes, transitioning from a package freighter to a sand dredge. Its fiery demise highlights the risks of operating wooden steamships in the early 20th century, particularly with the advent of high-demand industrial modifications.

Significant Incidents

Located By & Date Found

The wreckage site, including visible remains like the propeller shaft, is well-documented due to its proximity to a public area and shallow depth. It has become a local historical interest point for divers and historians.

Final Disposition

Notices & Advisories

• Hazards: The shallow depth and proximity to Kelley’s Island may pose navigation risks for small craft.
• Advisories: Ensure the area is marked on navigational charts and approached cautiously by divers and boaters.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The engine and boilers were removed in 1914. However, many heavy timbers remain and there is machinery that comes within 2 feet of the surface. The wreckage lies on a rock bottom and is home to many fish. As a result, many fishermen frequent her and the wreckage is smothered with monofilament and lures. If you can fend off the heavy boat traffic, this is a great place to pick up fishing tackle.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”f-h-prince-us-120797″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]

The F. H. Prince’s transition from package freighter to sand dredge mirrors the evolving industrial needs of the Great Lakes region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its fiery end near Kelley’s Island marks a dramatic close to its service and leaves behind a historical site now accessible to divers and enthusiasts. The remnants of the vessel provide a tangible link to the maritime legacy of the Great Lakes.