Legacy Notes & Full Historical Record

This section preserves the original unedited Shotline content for this wreck so that no historical detail is lost as we transition to the new logbook format.

Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: “Jackie’s Wreck” (Name unknown, colloquially referred to as Jackie’s Wreck)
• Vessel Type: Sail Vessel
• Length: Approximately 120 feet (36.6 meters)
• Depth: 50 feet (15 meters)
• Location: Pelee Passage, Lake Erie
• Coordinates: Latitude 41°51.707′N, Longitude 82°21.084′W
• Bottom Type: Mud

Vessel Type Description

Jackie’s Wreck appears to have been a sailing vessel, possibly a schooner or another type of merchant sail vessel common to the Great Lakes during the 19th or early 20th centuries. Its construction includes notable maritime features such as deadeyes, belaying pins, and a centerboard winch, suggesting a robust ship designed for heavy cargo or frequent voyages. The flattened structure and loss of decking imply that the vessel may have been salvaged, a common practice following shipwrecks in shallow, accessible waters.

Site Features

The wreck, though fragmented, offers several intriguing features that give insight into its construction and use:

• •Starboard Side: An 85-foot section of the starboard side remains intact. Near the bow of this section, divers can find deadeyes (used in the rigging) and belaying pins, indicating this was part of the operational rigging area of the ship.
• •Centerboard & Winch: The centerboard is still visible, with a sheet winch located on the starboard side near this area, a key feature for sail handling and stability.
• •Port Rail: A 30-foot section of the port rail sits separate from the starboard section, about 50 feet away, suggesting the vessel broke apart during sinking or subsequent salvage operations.
• •Bow: The bow features two stanchions, structural elements that once supported the vessel’s deck or rigging.

Historical Context

While the exact identity of Jackie’s Wreck remains unknown, the construction details and layout suggest it was a typical sail vessel of the Great Lakes, operating during the era when wind-powered vessels dominated regional trade. The scattered remains indicate either a violent sinking, possibly during a storm, or deliberate salvage operations after the wreck occurred.

The Pelee Passage was a critical and often perilous navigation route in Lake Erie, known for its strong currents, sudden weather changes, and shallow areas. Many vessels met their fate in this area due to storms or navigational hazards.

Final Disposition

The wreck lies in a fragmented state on a mud bottom in Pelee Passage. Key structural components, such as sections of the hull and operational features like the winch and deadeyes, are still visible. The wreck’s flattened state and missing decking suggest it was salvaged at some point, potentially for valuable materials like metal fittings or rigging.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck, while scattered, remains an intriguing site for divers interested in Great Lakes maritime history. Its features, including the starboard side, port rail, and bow stanchions, offer a chance to explore the vessel’s structure and gain insights into its construction and function. The shallow depth of 50 feet makes it accessible to recreational divers with proper equipment and training.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to Jackie’s Wreck. However, mariners should exercise caution when navigating in the Pelee Passage, given its history of shipwrecks and challenging conditions.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Historical records and databases may provide further clues about the wreck’s identity.
• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Useful for cross-referencing similar wrecks in the area.
• Save Ontario Shipwrecks: Preservation efforts and exploration tips for Lake Erie wrecks.
• Local Dive Shops: Information on diving conditions and guided tours in the Pelee Passage area.

Conclusion

Jackie’s Wreck is a compelling reminder of the many vessels that once traversed Lake Erie, facing its unpredictable waters and hazardous navigation routes. While its identity remains a mystery, the wreck offers valuable insights into the construction and operation of 19th or early 20th-century sailing vessels on the Great Lakes. Its accessibility and preserved features make it a noteworthy dive site for enthusiasts and historians alike.

Keywords

Jackie’s Wreck, Lake Erie shipwreck, Pelee Passage, sailing vessel, schooner wreck, Great Lakes maritime history, shipwreck diving site, 19th-century vessels.

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