Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: MARY JARECKI
- Type: Steambarge
- Year Built: 1871
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: 502 tons
- Location: Point Sauble, Lake Superior
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The MARY JARECKI was a wooden steambarge, a robust vessel designed primarily for hauling bulk cargo such as timber, ore, or grain across the Great Lakes. These vessels were vital during the late 19th century, supporting the booming industries surrounding the lakes. The MARY JARECKI exemplified this era, serving as a key transport vessel for goods across Lake Superior and beyond.
Description
The MARY JARECKI faced her tragic demise in July 1883 while navigating Point Sauble on Lake Superior. The vessel encountered significant structural failure, described as being “raised amidships,” indicating a severe break or damage to the hull. Efforts to pump out water and stabilize the steambarge failed as the boiler shifted, worsening the situation.
The vessel was abandoned by the crew, who safely made it to Sault Ste. Marie. Salvage efforts were led by S.A. Murphy, who successfully recovered the steambarge’s machinery, including its boiler and additional valuable components. However, much of the vessel and its cargo were lost, leaving only the outfit (equipment and tools) salvageable.
History
The MARY JARECKI was declared a total loss. While parts of the machinery were recovered, the vessel was deemed irreparable and abandoned. It remains a symbol of the dangers of shipping on the Great Lakes during the 19th century, particularly on Lake Superior, known for its unpredictable weather and treacherous waters.
Significant Incidents
- July 1883: Structural failure while navigating Point Sauble.
- Abandonment of the vessel by the crew, who reached safety.
- Salvage efforts led by S.A. Murphy, recovering machinery but losing much of the vessel and cargo.
Final Disposition
The wreck of the MARY JARECKI is presumed to be heavily deteriorated or buried in the sediment at Point Sauble, Lake Superior. There is no detailed documentation or recent exploration of the site, making its exact condition uncertain.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The loss of the MARY JARECKI highlights the vulnerabilities of wooden steambarges in the face of Lake Superior’s harsh environment. Its story reflects the challenges faced by mariners navigating the vast and often perilous waters of the Great Lakes.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”mary-jarecki” title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The MARY JARECKI‘s loss at Point Sauble in 1883 is a stark reminder of the risks and challenges of Great Lakes shipping during the 19th century. While her machinery was salvaged, the vessel itself was abandoned, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and the perils faced by steambarges of the era. The story of the MARY JARECKI remains an integral part of Lake Superior’s maritime history, preserving the memory of a vessel that once played a vital role in the region’s industrial growth.
Legacy Notes & Full Historical Record
This section preserves the original unedited Shotline content for this wreck so that no historical detail is lost as we transition to the new logbook format.
Wreck Report: Steambarge MARY JARECKI
Identification & Site Information
- Vessel Name: MARY JARECKI
- Type: Steambarge
- Year Built: 1871
- Location of Loss: Point Sauble, Lake Superior
- Date of Loss: July 1883
- Dimensions & Tonnage:
- Gross Tonnage: 502 tons
- Age: 12 years at the time of loss
- Value at Time of Loss: $28,000
Vessel Type Description
The MARY JARECKI was a wooden steambarge, a robust vessel designed primarily for hauling bulk cargo such as timber, ore, or grain across the Great Lakes. These vessels were vital during the late 19th century, supporting the booming industries surrounding the lakes. The MARY JARECKI exemplified this era, serving as a key transport vessel for goods across Lake Superior and beyond.
History
The MARY JARECKI faced her tragic demise in July 1883 while navigating Point Sauble on Lake Superior. The vessel encountered significant structural failure, described as being “raised amidships,” indicating a severe break or damage to the hull. Efforts to pump out water and stabilize the steambarge failed as the boiler shifted, worsening the situation.
The vessel was abandoned by the crew, who safely made it to Sault Ste. Marie. Salvage efforts were led by S.A. Murphy, who successfully recovered the steambarge’s machinery, including its boiler and additional valuable components. However, much of the vessel and its cargo were lost, leaving only the outfit (equipment and tools) salvageable.
Final Disposition
The MARY JARECKI was declared a total loss. While parts of the machinery were recovered, the vessel was deemed irreparable and abandoned. It remains a symbol of the dangers of shipping on the Great Lakes during the 19th century, particularly on Lake Superior, known for its unpredictable weather and treacherous waters.
Current Condition
The wreck of the MARY JARECKI is presumed to be heavily deteriorated or buried in the sediment at Point Sauble, Lake Superior. There is no detailed documentation or recent exploration of the site, making its exact condition uncertain.
Significance
The loss of the MARY JARECKI highlights the vulnerabilities of wooden steambarges in the face of Lake Superior’s harsh environment. Its story reflects the challenges faced by mariners navigating the vast and often perilous waters of the Great Lakes.
Resources & References
- J.W. Hall Great Lakes Marine Scrapbook, July 1883
- Marine Record, July 12, August 30, September 27, December 27, 1883
- Lost Tonnage on the Lakes, Marine Record, 1883
- Merchant Vessel List, U.S., 1871
Tags – MARY JARECKI Lake Superior Shipwreck 19th-Century Steambarge Great Lakes Maritime History Point Sauble Wrecks
Conclusion
The MARY JARECKI‘s loss at Point Sauble in 1883 is a stark reminder of the risks and challenges of Great Lakes shipping during the 19th century. While her machinery was salvaged, the vessel itself was abandoned, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and the perils faced by steambarges of the era. The story of the MARY JARECKI remains an integral part of Lake Superior’s maritime history, preserving the memory of a vessel that once played a vital role in the region’s industrial growth.
unknown-shipwreck-23088 1883-07-14 07:53:00