Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Julia Miner
- Type: Wooden schooner
- Year Built: 1867
- Builder: Dupont & Perra, Detroit
- Dimensions: Not specified
- Registered Tonnage: Not specified
- Location: Northeast of Big Charity Island, Saginaw Bay
- Original Owners: Frutchey of Detroit
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Julia Miner was a wooden schooner, originally named Sampson, likely used for transporting roofing materials and gravel.
Description
Built in 1867 by Dupont & Perra in Detroit, the Julia Miner was named after Julia Miner, the wife of Captain John Miner. The vessel’s specifications, including dimensions and tonnage, are not detailed in available sources.
History
On June 7, 1894, while upbound in Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron, the Julia Miner struck a reef northeast of Big Charity Island during a storm. The impact caused significant damage to the forward hull, leading the crew to abandon ship. All crew members were safely rescued by a local lighthouse keeper.
Initially declared a total loss, the vessel was surprisingly refloated and repaired by August 1894. At the time of the incident, the Julia Miner was owned by Frutchey of Detroit and had reportedly been uninsurable for several years prior to the wreck.
Significant Incidents
- June 7, 1894: Struck a reef during a storm in Saginaw Bay, leading to abandonment of the vessel.
- All crew survived, aided by a lighthouse keeper.
- Initially declared a total loss but refloated and repaired by August 1894.
Final Disposition
The Julia Miner was refloated and repaired after being declared a total loss. This recovery is notable for its speed and reflects the resilience of late 19th-century Great Lakes maritime practices.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the wreck is not documented in available sources. Further research may be needed to assess the site and any remaining artifacts.
Resources & Links
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The story of the Julia Miner illustrates the challenges faced by Great Lakes vessels in the 19th century, as well as the community’s response to maritime incidents. The wreck site and the vessel’s repair history provide valuable insights into the era’s maritime resilience.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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