Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Cherokee (later MAPLEGROVE, JED)
- Type: Bulk Freighter
- Year Built: 1889
- Builder: Martin P. Lester
- Dimensions: 208.7 ft (63.6 m); Beam: 35.7 ft; Depth of hold: 14.5 ft
- Registered Tonnage: 1002.85 tons (gross); 749.34 tons (net)
- Location: Fort William Harbor, Ontario
- Official Number: 126590
- Original Owners: M. P. Lester et al., Curtis & Brainard, Edward Glynn, Connelly, Good, Otter Navigation Co., Canada Steamship Lines
- Number of Masts: 3 (varied later to 2)
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Type: Bulk Freighter
Description
The Cherokee, later known as MAPLEGROVE and JED, was a wooden-hulled bulk freighter built in 1889. It was primarily used for the transportation of lumber, coal, and ore across the Great Lakes.
History
The Cherokee was built by Martin P. Lester in Marine City, Michigan. It underwent several ownership changes and modifications throughout its operational life, including a significant rebuild in 1891 that added a second deck. The vessel was involved in multiple incidents, including groundings and collisions, which were common for wooden freighters of that era.
Significant Incidents
- 1893: Grounded near Sugar Island; released by tug MERRICK.
- 1906: Grounded in collision with CHIPPEWA on Canadian border.
- 1920: Sank in Welland Canal after ramming lock gates; raised.
Final Disposition
In 1936, the JED was deliberately removed and dynamited by the Canadian government after being stranded and abandoned since 1931.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the JED no longer exists as it was destroyed in 1936. Prior to its demolition, it had been abandoned for several years.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”jed-us-125590maplegrove-cherokee” title=”References & Links”]
The Cherokee serves as a historical example of the wooden-hulled bulk freighters that were prevalent in the late 19th century, highlighting the transition from wooden to steel vessels in maritime trade.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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