Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: James Scott
- Type: Schooner
- Year Built: 1870
- Builder: Cleveland, Ohio
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Near Springfield, Pennsylvania
- Original Owners: Captain James Scott
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The James Scott was a wooden schooner, part of Captain James Scott’s fleet based in Cleveland, Ohio. It typically carried bulk freight such as iron ore or general cargo across Lake Erie routes.
Description
Built around 1870, the James Scott was designed for transporting goods across the Great Lakes. The vessel was known for its sturdy construction and was part of a fleet that contributed to the shipping industry in the region.
History
The James Scott was primarily engaged in trade routes between Ogdensburg, NY, and Detroit, utilizing the waterways of Lake Erie. Its service history reflects the typical operations of wooden schooners during the late 19th century.
Significant Incidents
- Date of Loss: November 1882
- Route: Bound from Ogdensburg, NY toward Detroit, navigating across Lake Erie.
- Incident: Driven ashore in a severe storm, the vessel stranded near Springfield, Pennsylvania, approximately 20 miles west of Erie, PA, and was quickly broken apart by wave action.
- Casualties: The crew abandoned the ship and reached shore safely; no fatalities were recorded.
Final Disposition
The James Scott was declared a total loss as it disintegrated after being driven ashore. The wreck serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes during severe weather conditions.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As of now, the wreck of the James Scott is not accessible for diving due to its disintegration and the location’s conditions. The site may be of interest for historical research and study.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”james-scott-1870″ title=”References & Links”]
The loss of the James Scott highlights the challenges of maritime navigation in the Great Lakes, particularly during storms. The vessel’s story contributes to the rich maritime history of the region.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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