Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: John C. Liken
- Type: Wooden propeller vessel—package & bulk freight
- Year Built: 1873
- Builder: George Carpenter
- Dimensions: 90 ft (27.43 m); Beam 21 ft; Depth of hold 5 ft
- Registered Tonnage: ~79 gross / 58 net tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 91.44 m / 300 ft
- Location: Hammond Bay, near the Straits of Mackinac
- Official Number: 75507
- Original Owners: Reportedly purchased by Capt. Doville just before her loss
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Wooden propeller vessel designed for package and bulk freight.
Description
The John C. Liken was built in 1873 by George Carpenter at Sebewaing, Michigan. The vessel measured approximately 90 feet in length, with a beam of 21 feet and a depth of 5 feet. It had a registered tonnage of approximately 79 gross tons and 58 net tons, primarily operating in mixed freight runs, including wood lath and general goods, from Michigan ports.
History
The John C. Liken was engaged in mixed freight trade, particularly in the transportation of lumber and general goods. The vessel was known to operate in the challenging waters of Lake Huron, particularly around Cheboygan and Hammond Bay, which were notorious for rough spring conditions and navigational difficulties.
Significant Incidents
- Loss Date: May 2, 1890
- Route: From Cheboygan, Michigan, bound for Toledo, Ohio, intending to enter her regular freight trade.
- Incident: Caught in a violent gale with low visibility in Hammond Bay, near the Straits of Mackinac.
- The vessel foundered in approximately 50 fathoms (about 300 feet) of water. Her crew escaped via her small boat and reached shore with great difficulty.
- No loss of life was reported; all eight aboard survived.
Final Disposition
The John C. Liken sank during a storm on May 2, 1890, in deep water off Hammond Bay. The vessel was officially lost, and her registration was surrendered shortly thereafter.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the John C. Liken lies in deep water, making it accessible primarily to experienced divers. The conditions in the area can be challenging due to weather and visibility factors.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”john-c-liken-us-75507″ title=”References & Links”]
The loss of the John C. Liken highlights the dangers of navigation in the Straits of Mackinac region during late winter and early spring. The successful evacuation of the crew underscores the resilience of those operating small freighters during this era.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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