Hetty Taylor US 95356

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Hetty Taylor
• Type: Schooner
• Year Built: 1874
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Length: 84 ft (25.60 m); Width: 23 ft (7.01 m); Depth: 8 ft (2.44 m)
• Registered Tonnage:
• Depth at Wreck Site: 32 m / 105 ft
• Location: Lake Michigan, near Wisconsin
• Coordinates: 43° 40.890′ N, 087° 39.290′ W
• Official Number: 95356

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Hetty Taylor was a wooden schooner, a type of sailing vessel characterized by its fore-and-aft rigging and multiple sails, commonly used for cargo transport.

Description

The wreck of the Hetty Taylor rests upright at a depth of 105 ft (32.00 m), partially embedded in the lakebed, particularly near the stern. The stern and starboard side are broken with significant structural damage, while the bow and forward deck remain fairly intact, including the bowsprit. Artifacts present at the site include the anchor windlass, centerboard trunk, disarticulated cabin roof, stove, and rudder.

History

The Hetty Taylor was constructed in 1874 and primarily used for transporting cargo across the Great Lakes. Schooners like the Hetty Taylor were essential to Great Lakes commerce during the 19th century, hauling bulk goods such as lumber, coal, and grain. The vessel sank in 1880 in Lake Michigan near Wisconsin, likely due to the sudden storms and navigational challenges faced by vessels of that era.

Significant Incidents

• Sank in Lake Michigan on March 14, 1880.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the Hetty Taylor is protected under Wisconsin law, and divers are encouraged to observe but not disturb or remove artifacts. The site is significant for its well-preserved bow and surviving artifacts, which provide valuable insights into the vessel’s operation and the daily life of its crew.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck is accessible to advanced divers, with good visibility often reported at this depth, though conditions can vary with weather and currents. Divers should be aware of the preservation status and adhere to legal and ethical guidelines regarding artifact handling.

Resources & Links

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The Hetty Taylor serves as a reminder of the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes and the importance of preserving such sites for future generations. Remember to leave only bubbles and take only memories while diving.