Nett Woodward (1867)

Explore the tragic story of the Nett Woodward, a wooden schooner lost in a storm while entering Southampton Harbor in 1892. A reminder of the dangers faced by sailors on the Great Lakes.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: Nett Woodward
  • Type: Wooden Schooner
  • Year Built: 1867
  • Builder: A. Woodward, Port Rowan, Ontario
  • Dimensions: 107 ft (32.6 m); Beam: 25 ft (7.6 m); Depth of hold: 9 ft (2.7 m)
  • Registered Tonnage: 175 tons
  • Location: Near Southampton, Ontario, Lake Huron
  • Official Number: None (Canadian Registry)
  • Original Owners: Likely A. Woodward, Port Rowan, Ontario

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Nett Woodward was a wooden schooner, a type of sailing vessel commonly used for transporting goods across the Great Lakes.

Description

The Nett Woodward was built in 1867 and primarily engaged in the transport of timber and bulk goods. She was known for carrying cedar logs, which were valuable for various construction purposes.

History

The Nett Woodward operated along the Great Lakes trade routes, navigating both Canadian and American ports. She experienced a near-loss incident in September 1889 when she was driven ashore during a storm but was refloated and repaired.

Significant Incidents

  • September 1889: Driven ashore near Southampton during a storm but refloated and repaired.

Final Disposition

On August 31, 1892, the Nett Woodward capsized while attempting to enter Southampton Harbor during a severe gale. Two sailors perished in the incident, and the vessel was deemed a total loss as it broke apart in the surf.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the Nett Woodward was destroyed by waves and storms after drifting ashore. Any remains would likely be buried under sand or dispersed along the shore, with some iron fastenings or wooden fragments possibly found near Southampton’s beaches.

Resources & Links

References are being reviewed for this wreck.

The loss of the Nett Woodward serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by sailors on the Great Lakes, particularly during storms. Despite the absence of significant remains today, her story contributes to the maritime history of the region.