New Orleans (1885)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: New Orleans
• Type: Wooden Steamer
• Year Built:
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Not documented
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Lake Huron

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type: Wooden Steamer

Description

The New Orleans was a wooden steamer operating on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. Vessels like the New Orleans were critical to the transportation of goods, passengers, and raw materials across the expanding industrial region.

In 1885, the New Orleans sank in the waters off Thunder Bay, Michigan, an area now encompassed by the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The exact circumstances of the sinking are not well-documented, but it is consistent with the region’s history of shipwrecks caused by sudden storms, navigational errors, or mechanical failures.

History

The New Orleans is a representation of the dynamic history of Great Lakes commerce and the challenges faced by mariners in the 19th century. Its location within the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary ensures its protection and continued study, offering insights into ship design, cargo transport, and life on the lakes during its operational period.

Significant Incidents

• 1885: The New Orleans sank in Thunder Bay, Michigan.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the New Orleans is part of the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a region rich in maritime heritage with over 100 identified wrecks. The sanctuary protects and studies these historically significant wrecks.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The New Orleans is likely well-preserved, protected by Lake Huron’s cold, fresh waters. Divers are prohibited from disturbing or removing artifacts from any wrecks within the sanctuary, emphasizing the importance of lawful and ethical behavior.

Resources & Links

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The New Orleans serves as a reminder of the maritime history of the Great Lakes and the importance of preserving such sites for future generations. As divers, we encourage you to leave only bubbles and take only memories, ensuring these historical sites remain intact for others to appreciate.