Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Manitowoc
- Type: Wooden three-masted schooner
- Year Built: 1868
- Builder: Rand shipyard, Manitowoc, Wisconsin
- Dimensions: 210 ft (64 m) X 29 ft (8.8 m); Depth of hold: 13 ft (4 m)
- Registered Tonnage: ~507 gross / 479 net tons
- Location: North Manitou Island, Lake Michigan
- Official Number: 90465
- Number of Masts: Three
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Originally built as a sidewheel steamer, the Manitowoc was converted to a three-masted schooner after a fire in 1874. This conversion allowed her to continue serving in the lumber trade across Lake Michigan.
Description
The Manitowoc was a wooden three-masted schooner, approximately 210 feet long, with a beam of 29 feet and a depth of hold of 13 feet. At the time of her loss, she was carrying a cargo of lumber.
History
Constructed in 1868 by Rand shipyard in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, the Manitowoc began her life as a sidewheel steamer. Following a fire in 1874, she was converted into a three-masted schooner, which allowed her to continue operating in the lumber trade. Throughout her service, she navigated the waters of Lake Michigan, contributing to the regional economy.
Significant Incidents
- Converted from a sidewheel steamer to a three-masted schooner after a fire in 1874.
- Lost on November 10, 1900, during a late-season storm.
- Driven ashore on North Manitou Island, resulting in total wreckage.
Final Disposition
The Manitowoc was declared totally wrecked in the registry following her loss. The circumstances of her sinking highlight the dangers of navigating the Great Lakes during stormy weather, particularly in the autumn months.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As a wreck, the Manitowoc is located on North Manitou Island. The current condition of the wreck is not documented, but it is noted that the vessel was completely wrecked during the storm.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”manitowoc-us-90465″ title=”References & Links”]
The Manitowoc, a converted sidewheel steamer, met her end on November 10, 1900, when she was driven ashore and wrecked near North Manitou Island. Her loss serves as a reminder of the perils faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes during stormy conditions.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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