Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Melvin S. Bacon
- Type: Schooner Barge
- Year Built: 1874
- Builder: Vermilion, Ohio
- Dimensions: 182.0 ft (55.5 m); Beam: 33.5 ft; Depth of hold: 13.6 ft
- Registered Tonnage: 614 tons
- Location: Detroit River near Grassy Island
- Official Number: 140964
- Original Owners: Montreal Transportation Company
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Melvin S. Bacon was a wooden schooner barge designed for the transportation of bulk goods across the Great Lakes.
Description
The Melvin S. Bacon was built in 1874 and originally served the Great Lakes region. It was a robust vessel with a gross tonnage of 614 tons and dimensions of 182.0 feet in length, 33.5 feet in width, and 13.6 feet in depth.
History
The Melvin S. Bacon had a notable career, facing significant incidents including a fire in 1905 and a collision in 1915 that led to its abandonment. After being salvaged, it was sold to Canada in 1919 and underwent modifications.
Significant Incidents
- 1905 Incident: On September 24-25, 1905, the vessel went ashore near Ashland, Wisconsin, resulting in a fire and declared a total loss, but was salvaged and repaired.
- 1915 Collision: On November 16, 1915, the Melvin S. Bacon was rammed and sunk by the steamer Joseph Sellwood in the Detroit River, leading to its abandonment.
Final Disposition
The Melvin S. Bacon was dismantled in 1929, concluding its 55-year service history as newer steel-hulled ships became prevalent.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the Melvin S. Bacon is confirmed, but specific dive conditions and accessibility details are not provided.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”melvin-s-bacon-c-140964″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The history of the Melvin S. Bacon illustrates the resilience of schooner barges in the Great Lakes, showcasing their adaptability and significance in maritime commerce.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
Join Shotline to read more →