Mary E. Burgoyne US 17027 (Tempest)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Mary E. Burgoyne
• Type: Schooner
• Year Built: 1848
• Builder: Racine, Wisconsin
• Dimensions: Length: 126 ft (38.4 m); Beam: 26 ft (7.9 m); Depth of hold: 8 ft (2.4 m)
• Registered Tonnage: 196.30 tons
• Location: Hanford’s Landing, Lake Ontario
• Coordinates: N43° 57.49′, W76° 44.79′
• Official Number: US 17027
• Original Owners: Reed & Stone, M.V. Poucher, C. Guthrie
• Number of Masts: Schooner rigged

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The TEMPEST / MARY E. BURGOYNE was a schooner, a versatile sailing vessel common on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Designed for transporting bulk cargoes like lumber and agricultural products, it exemplified the hardworking vessels that sustained regional economies.

Description

Built in Racine, Wisconsin, in 1848, the TEMPEST was a robust schooner designed for cargo transport on the Great Lakes. Its initial operations centered around Chicago, Illinois. The vessel was reconstructed in Napanee, Ontario, in 1851 and was renamed MARY E. BURGOYNE in 1859, reflecting its transition to a new phase of service.

History

Launch and Early Years (1848-1859): The TEMPEST was designed for cargo transport on the Great Lakes, primarily operating out of Chicago. Rebuild and Renaming (1851-1859): After being reconstructed in Napanee, Ontario, it was renamed MARY E. BURGOYNE in 1859. 1859 Incident: In July, while carrying lumber, the schooner became waterlogged and was towed to Oswego for repairs, incurring significant losses. Ownership Changes and Service (1861-1866): The vessel changed hands several times, owned by Reed & Stone, M.V. Poucher, and C. Guthrie, continuing to transport goods across the Great Lakes. Tragic End (1871): In May 1871, the MARY E. BURGOYNE burned at Hanford’s Landing, resulting in a total loss.

Significant Incidents

• 1859: Waterlogged while carrying lumber, towed to Oswego for repairs.
• 1871: Burned at Hanford’s Landing, Ontario, resulting in total loss.

Final Disposition

The wreck location of the TEMPEST / MARY E. BURGOYNE has not been confirmed. Its fiery end likely left little of the ship intact, but its legacy persists in historical records and maritime lore.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The current condition of the wreck is unknown, as the site has not been confirmed. Divers are encouraged to respect the site and engage in no-touch documentation methods.

Resources & Links

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The TEMPEST / MARY E. BURGOYNE played a vital role in Great Lakes commerce, weathering challenges and disasters throughout its career. Although it ultimately met a tragic end, the schooner’s history offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of 19th-century maritime vessels.