Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: L. B. Fortier
- Type: Wooden scow-schooner
- Year Built: 1858
- Builder: J. Ledger in Buffalo, New York
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: 167 gross tons
- Location: Approximately 10 miles off Grand Haven, Michigan
- Coordinates: N/A
- Official Number: N/A
- Original Owners: Registered out of Buffalo; Master in 1859: Captain Graves
- Number of Masts: N/A
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Wooden scow-schooner, a type of vessel commonly used for transporting goods along the Great Lakes.
Description
The L. B. Fortier was a wooden scow-schooner built in 1858, measuring approximately 167 gross tons. It was registered out of Buffalo, New York, and was typically used for carrying light freight, likely including lumber.
History
Built by J. Ledger in Buffalo, New York, the L. B. Fortier served in the Great Lakes shipping industry. The vessel was under the command of Captain Graves in 1859, indicating it was actively used shortly after its construction.
Significant Incidents
- November 18, 1865: The L. B. Fortier capsized during a gale approximately 10 miles off Grand Haven, Michigan, resulting in the loss of five crew members.
Final Disposition
The L. B. Fortier sank as a total loss due to waterlogging and capsizing in severe weather conditions.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the L. B. Fortier remains submerged in Lake Michigan, with no known recovery efforts or salvage operations reported.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”l-b-fortier-1858″ title=”References & Links”]
The loss of the L. B. Fortier highlights the dangers faced by scow-schooners navigating the Great Lakes during autumn storms. The vessel’s sinking serves as a reminder of the perils of maritime navigation in this region.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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