J. J. Carroll – Lake Erie Trawler Shipwreck (1929)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: J.J. CARROLL
• Type: Fish Tug (Oil Screw Vessel)
• Year Built: 1925
• Builder: Sandusky, Ohio
• Dimensions: Length: 59.3 ft (18.1 m); Beam: 15.6 ft (4.8 m); Draft: 5.5 ft (1.7 m)
• Registered Tonnage: Gross: 77 tons; Net: 68 tons
• Depth at Wreck Site: 3 m / 10 ft
• Location: Fish Point, Pelee Island, Lake Erie
• Coordinates: Latitude: 41°43.547′ N; Longitude: 82°40.261′ W
• Official Number: 224735
• Original Owners: United Fisheries Co.
• Number of Masts: 2

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type: Fish Tug (Oil Screw Vessel)

Description

The J.J. CARROLL was a wooden fish tug designed for freight transportation and operated primarily in Lake Erie. Its oil screw propulsion system was advanced for the time, providing efficient navigation for a small two-person crew. With its home port in Sandusky, Ohio, the vessel was integral to the fishing industry, transporting goods and supplies across the lake.

History

Built in 1925, the J.J. CARROLL served as a robust utility vessel for the United Fisheries Co. Its design was optimized for navigating shallow and challenging waters, making it ideal for operations on Lake Erie.

Significant Incidents

Incident: On November 7, 1929, the J.J. CARROLL was destroyed by fire near Pelee Island, Ontario. The fire burned the vessel to the waterline, leaving behind a scattered debris field. Fortunately, there were no casualties. The cause of the fire remains unclear, but fires were not uncommon on oil-powered vessels of this era, often attributed to engine malfunctions or flammable cargo.

The loss was significant but not entirely unexpected, as such vessels were routinely exposed to the harsh and unforgiving conditions of the Great Lakes.

Final Disposition

The remains of the J.J. CARROLL rest in 10 feet (3 meters) of water on a sandy bottom, making the site relatively shallow and accessible. The visible wreckage includes:

• Transom Section: Partially visible above the sandy lakebed.
• Barrel-Like Object: Likely a portion of the boiler, closed at one end.
• Circular Object: Measuring 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height, possibly related to the propulsion system.
• Scattered Debris: Pipes, metal parts, and various fragments of the hull.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The shallow depth and proximity to shore make the site an interesting dive for beginners, though visibility can be limited to 8–10 feet (2.4–3 meters), particularly in late summer when marine vegetation heavily covers the area.

NOTMARs & Advisories:

• No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with the wreck site.
• Divers should be cautious of entanglement risks from submerged debris and reduced visibility caused by marine vegetation and sediment.

Resources & Links

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The wreck of the J.J. CARROLL provides a fascinating glimpse into the working life of fish tugs on Lake Erie during the early 20th century. While fire ended its service prematurely, the remaining wreckage tells the story of a vessel that was an integral part of the region’s fishing industry. Today, the site serves as both a historical artifact and a dive attraction, offering an accessible exploration opportunity for divers and history enthusiasts alike.