Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Lookout
- Type: Schooner (Clipper-style hull)
- Year Built: 1855
- Builder: Buffalo, New York
- Dimensions: Not specified
- Registered Tonnage: Not located in accessible sources
- Depth at Wreck Site: 3 m / 10 ft
- Location: Rawley Point, Wisconsin
- Official Number: Not located in accessible sources
- Original Owners: Not specified
- Number of Masts: Not specified
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Schooner (Clipper-style hull)
Description
The Lookout was a wooden schooner designed with a clipper-type hull—a rare design for Great Lakes vessels, more commonly used in ocean-going ships. These hulls featured a sharper deadrise and narrower beam, optimizing them for speed rather than the broader cargo-friendly designs typical of lake freighters. Built in Buffalo, New York, in 1855, she was used throughout her long career to transport essential cargoes like grain, coal, and lumber across various Great Lakes ports.
History
Lookout enjoyed an exceptionally long career on the Great Lakes, sailing for over 45 years. Her final voyage began in April 1897 when she encountered a fierce gale while rounding Rawley Point on Lake Michigan’s western shore. She was driven aground just 200 yards offshore in the area’s infamous “quicksand.” By 5 AM the following day, the vessel was discovered by a local Life-Saving Service patrol.
Recognizing the danger posed by the worsening storm and crashing surf, the captain ordered the crew to abandon ship using the yawl boat. All hands survived and met the lifesaving crew onshore. The following day, Lookout’s deck was underwater and the hull irretrievably stuck in the shifting sands. Only the anchor, some chain, and navigational instruments were salvaged. The ship was declared a total loss.
Significant Incidents
- Grounded and wrecked off Rawley Point on April 29, 1897.
Final Disposition
Declared a total wreck after grounding at Rawley Point on April 29, 1897. The hull remains embedded in nearshore sands.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck is accessible for diving, with generally calm conditions. Visibility varies, and moving sands continue to shift the wreckage coverage. Points of interest include the bow section, intact lower hull, centerboard, and part of the starboard hull.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”lookout-1855″ title=”References & Links”]
The Lookout is a rare example of a clipper-hulled schooner on the Great Lakes, representing unique design evolution and enduring maritime service. Her accessible location, shallow depth, and historical significance make her an excellent site for both diving and historical exploration. Preserved under layers of sand, the wreck continues to provide insights into Great Lakes shipping history and evolving underwater archaeological methods.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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