Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: John Webber
• Type: Two-Masted Wooden Schooner
• Year Built: 1856
• Builder: C. Hinman, Black River, Ohio
• Dimensions: 93 ft (28.3 m); Beam: 24 ft (7.3 m); Depth of hold: 10 ft (3.0 m)
• Registered Tonnage: 153 tons
• Depth at Wreck Site: 12 m / 40 ft
• Location: Near Escanaba, Michigan
• Official Number: 12970
• Original Owners: Wex, Buffalo, New York
• Number of Masts: Two

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The John Webber was a two-masted wooden schooner, designed for bulk cargo transportation across the Great Lakes.

Description

The John Webber was launched in 1856 and primarily engaged in transporting iron ore, coal, and grain. The vessel was part of the heavy shipping trade between Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and industrial centers like Cleveland and Buffalo.

History

Throughout her operational life, the John Webber underwent several repairs and rebuilds, including a significant rebuild in 1870 after going ashore on Lake Erie and heavy repairs in Spring 1875 following another grounding incident.

Significant Incidents

• 1870: Rebuilt after going ashore on Lake Erie.
• Spring 1875: Heavy repairs following another grounding incident.
• October 5, 1875: The vessel began taking on water rapidly after departing Escanaba, leading to an emergency beaching attempt.

Final Disposition

After attempting to beach the vessel, the John Webber broke in two due to structural failure. A storm on October 13 further destroyed the wreck, and it was officially declared abandoned shortly thereafter.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The remains of the John Webber are likely scattered across the lakebed due to the violent breakup of the hull. Some iron fastenings and remnants of iron ore may still be present, but storm activity may have buried much of the wreckage under sand.

Resources & Links

The John Webber serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by wooden schooners in the Great Lakes, particularly those transporting heavy cargoes. Though no significant wreckage has been identified, her story remains a part of maritime history.