Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: John C. Bauer (formerly Planet)
- Type: Scow-schooner
- Year Built: 1855
- Builder: D. Fox
- Dimensions: Length ~107 ft (32.6 m); Beam ~25.6 ft (7.8 m); Depth ~8 ft (2.4 m)
- Registered Tonnage: ~197 old-style tons
- Location: South Fox Island Harbor, Lake Michigan
- Official Number: 54159
- Original Owners: Thomas Thompson (at time of loss)
- Number of Masts: Two-masted
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Type: Wooden scow-schooner, two-masted, flat-bottomed.
Description
The John C. Bauer, originally named Planet, was a wooden scow-schooner built in 1855. It was primarily used in the lumber and stone trades, showcasing the durable design typical of mid-19th century coastal workboats.
History
The vessel was enrolled at Cleveland, Ohio in 1855 as Planet. It experienced several ownership changes and port registrations in Ohio and Wisconsin, with a significant reconstruction in 1869. The name was changed to John C. Bauer in 1882. By 1900, it was owned by Thomas Thompson and was en route from Milwaukee to Cecil Bay when the incident occurred.
Significant Incidents
- 1858: Grounded south of Milwaukee piers; later released.
- 1900: Stranded and wrecked in dense fog; crew abandoned ship with no loss of life reported.
Final Disposition
The vessel was declared a total loss after stranding in dense fog on July 6, 1900. The crew was rescued by a local fishing boat, and the hull was later towed clear of the harbor.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck site is presumed to be close to the southwest harbor of South Fox Island, Michigan. As a wooden scow-schooner stranded in shallow waters, little remains are likely, and the structure may be broken and dispersed. Accessibility may be possible at low water with surf or seasonal exposure, but no official dive surveys are known.
Resources & Links
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The John C. Bauer exemplifies the challenges faced by mid-19th century vessels navigating confined waters, particularly in fog. Its loss highlights the importance of navigational aids and the risks inherent in maritime operations of the time.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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