Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: J. M. Lee
- Type: Wooden-hulled propeller steam vessel
- Year Built: 1888
- Builder: Unknown
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: 100-300 gross tons
- Location: Western Lake Huron
- Coordinates: Exact coordinates unknown
- Official Number: Unknown
- Original Owners: Unknown
- Number of Masts: Unknown
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Given her timeframe and construction, J. M. Lee was likely a wooden propeller-driven freighter or tug, ranging between 100–300 gross tons (standard for the era). Further technical specs—like dimensions, tonnage, engine configuration, and builder—require additional archival digging.
Description
While specific logs of the incident have yet to be located, the record indicates a fire aboard in August 1913 resulted in a total loss. No crew members were lost. The fire most likely originated in the vessel’s machinery spaces or galley—typical ignition points—leading to a catastrophic hull fire that consumed the ship.
History
Trade Area: Active on Lake Huron, potentially carrying timber, coal, ore, or general freight.
Service Record: No major incidents recorded prior to 1913. Her loss appears singular and specific to the fire event.
Significant Incidents
- Loss occurred in August 1913 due to a fire.
- No fatalities reported.
- Fire likely originated in machinery spaces or galley.
Final Disposition
J. M. Lee was burned to total loss and sank where she burned. The wreck is currently unlocated, with no diver surveys or remote-sensing expeditions recorded.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Likely burned wreckage sunk in moderate or greater than 50 ft depth. No official Notices to Mariners or navigational hazard bulletins are known to have been issued in her case.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”j-m-lee-1888″ title=”References & Links”]
The J. M. Lee remains insufficiently documented, with essential data on her construction, ownership, and final location still outstanding. Pursuing ship registries, newspaper archives, and possibly an archaeological survey could significantly enhance our understanding of her story and material remnants.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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