George M Chapman (1854)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: George M. Chapman
• Type: two-masted wooden schooner
• Year Built: 1854
• Builder: George Swick in Buffalo, New York
• Dimensions: Length: 130 ft (39.6 m); Beam: 26 ft (7.9 m); Depth of hold: 11 ft (3.4 m)
• Registered Tonnage: 318 gross tons
• Location: Oswego Harbor, New York
• Number of Masts: 2

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The George M. Chapman was a two-masted wooden schooner, a common design for vessels used on the Great Lakes during the mid-19th century.

Description

The George M. Chapman was constructed in Buffalo, New York, primarily to carry bulk cargo such as wheat, coal, or other goods across the Great Lakes. Its sturdy build and streamlined hull were suited for transporting goods efficiently across the expansive waters.

History

The schooner George M. Chapman, also referred to as G.M. Chapman, embarked on what would be her final voyage from Chicago, Illinois, to Oswego, New York. She was laden with a cargo of wheat, a staple commodity in Great Lakes shipping during the 19th century. On November 4, 1856, while attempting to enter Oswego Harbor on Lake Ontario, the schooner encountered a severe storm.

The weather was described as a “perfect hurricane”, one of the worst storms of the season. The gale’s violent winds and heavy seas made navigation nearly impossible. While approaching the harbour’s east pier, the vessel was driven ashore. The pounding waves battered the George M. Chapman until the hull broke apart, rendering the vessel a total loss.

Despite the schooner’s destruction, the crew miraculously survived the ordeal, likely aided by proximity to the harbour and the shore.

Significant Incidents

• The George M. Chapman was lost during a severe storm on November 4, 1856, while attempting to enter Oswego Harbor.
• The vessel broke apart near the east pier, resulting in a total loss of the ship and its cargo.
• No lives were reported lost in the incident.

Final Disposition

The schooner broke apart near the east pier of Oswego Harbor. Her cargo of wheat was lost along with the vessel. No lives were reported lost.

Current Condition & Accessibility

There are no current records indicating if the wreck has been located or surveyed in modern times. The location of the George M. Chapman is presumed to be within Oswego Harbor near the east pier. The wreckage may still pose potential underwater obstructions for navigation, though it is likely to have deteriorated significantly.

Resources & Links

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The George M. Chapman remains a significant part of Great Lakes maritime history, representing the challenges faced by vessels during the 19th century and the dangers of severe weather conditions on the lakes.