I. May Brown – Lake Michigan Schooner Shipwreck (1895)

Explore the wreck of the I. May Brown, a wooden schooner that capsized in 1895 on Lake Michigan due to cargo shift during heavy weather.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: I. May Brown
  • Type: Wooden schooner
  • Year Built: 1884
  • Builder: Not specified in available records
  • Dimensions: Not specified in available records
  • Registered Tonnage: Not listed in available registries
  • Location: Near Michigan City, Indiana, Lake Michigan
  • Official Number: Not listed in available registries
  • Original Owners: Not specified in available records

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Wooden schooner

Description

The I. May Brown was a wooden schooner constructed in 1884. Specific details about her dimensions and builder are not available in the existing records.

History

On July 7, 1895, while transporting a cargo of gravel, the I. May Brown encountered heavy weather conditions on Lake Michigan. The shifting of the gravel cargo caused the vessel to capsize. Subsequently, the schooner drifted ashore near Michigan City, Indiana, where she became a total loss. Fortunately, all crew members were rescued without injury.

Significant Incidents

  • Capsized due to cargo shift in heavy weather on July 7, 1895.
  • All crew members were rescued without injury.

Final Disposition

The I. May Brown capsized due to cargo shift in heavy weather and was declared a total loss after drifting ashore near Michigan City, Indiana, on July 7, 1895.

Current Condition & Accessibility

There are no records indicating that the wreck of the I. May Brown has been located.

Resources & Links

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The I. May Brown serves as a historical example of the risks associated with transporting bulk cargoes like gravel on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. The incident underscores the importance of proper cargo securing methods, especially in vessels susceptible to shifting loads during adverse weather conditions.

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Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.

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