Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: NORMA
- Type: Schooner
- Year Built: 1867
- Builder: J.S. Monroe
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: 18 tons
- Location: Near Egg Harbor, Green Bay, Lake Michigan
- Official Number: 18605
- Original Owners: W.P. Kirtland, Nelson Brothers of Sheboygan, Wisconsin
- Number of Masts: 2
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
NORMA was a small wooden schooner designed for the Great Lakes’ coastal and short-haul bulk cargo trades. Schooners of this size frequently carried lumber, cordwood, farm produce, or general merchandise between regional ports. Their shallow draft made them ideal for working smaller harbours around Green Bay.
Description
NORMA was a wooden schooner built in 1867, primarily used for trade in the Great Lakes region. With a gross tonnage of 18 tons, she was designed for carrying various cargoes, reflecting the maritime commerce of her time.
History
NORMA’s career spanned over three decades of service. Records show that she was repaired in 1875, indicating an active trade life, and was owned in 1876 by the Nelson Brothers of Sheboygan, Wisconsin. On November 17, 1893, NORMA stranded on the beach north of Saugatuck, Michigan, but was subsequently released and repaired in April 1894. Her final loss came in October 1900 near Egg Harbor, Wisconsin, while owned by W.P. Kirtland. No fatalities are recorded, but full details of the circumstances of her loss are lacking.
Significant Incidents
- Stranded on the beach north of Saugatuck, Michigan, on November 17, 1893; released and repaired in April 1894.
Final Disposition
Lost near Egg Harbor, Wisconsin, in October 1900. The circumstances of her loss are unknown; she is presumed to have foundered or wrecked.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck has not been confirmed or documented, and its precise state is unknown.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”norma-us-18605″ title=”References & Links”]
NORMA represents the hundreds of small schooners that supported regional commerce across Lake Michigan in the 19th century. Her long working life and repeated repairs highlight the durability and importance of these vessels in Great Lakes trade.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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