Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: G. D. Norris
- Type: Wooden Two-Mast Schooner
- Year Built: 1856
- Builder: G. W. Jones
- Dimensions: Approximately 128 × 26 × 11 ft; 262 gross tons, 252 net tons
- Registered Tonnage: 262 gross tons
- Location: Near Goderich, Ontario
- Official Number: U.S. Official No. 10336
- Number of Masts: Two
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The G. D. Norris was a wooden two-mast schooner, a common vessel type for cargo transport on the Great Lakes during the 19th century.
Description
Built in 1856 in Cleveland, Ohio, the G. D. Norris measured approximately 128 feet in length and was registered at 262 gross tons. The vessel was primarily used for transporting lumber.
History
The G. D. Norris was involved in the transportation of goods between Michigan and Ohio. Her final voyage began from Bay City, Michigan, bound for Cleveland, Ohio, under tow by the steamer Oswegatchie.
Significant Incidents
- Final Voyage: On October 24, 1887, the vessel encountered a severe storm on Lake Huron, leading to her sinking.
- Rescue: The crew was evacuated and rescued by the passing steamer Breck.
- Wreckage: The vessel likely drifted ashore near Goderich, Ontario, after sinking.
- Casualties: There were no reported casualties; all crew members survived.
Final Disposition
After the sinking, the G. D. Norris was abandoned, and her registration certificate was surrendered at Port Huron in 1888, indicating her legal status as a wreck.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The remains of the G. D. Norris are located near Goderich, Ontario, in an area frequented by maritime historians and wreck surveys.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”g-d-norris-us-10336″ title=”References & Links”]
The loss of the G. D. Norris highlights the risks associated with towed schooner operations in the Great Lakes, particularly during stormy weather. Her story is a testament to the maritime history of the region.
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