Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Northwestern
- Type: Schooner
- Year Built: 1847
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length 115 ft (35.1 m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 41.1 m / 135 ft
- Location: Lake Huron
- Official Number: Not Available
- Number of Masts: Two
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Northwestern was a two-masted wooden schooner, a common vessel type in the mid-19th century Great Lakes maritime trade. Schooners were primarily used to transport goods such as grain, lumber, and coal.
Description
Built in 1847, the Northwestern served as a cargo vessel on the Great Lakes during the early days of maritime commerce in the region. On October 9, 1850, the vessel sank in Lake Huron, likely due to a collision or severe weather. It represents one of the earlier shipwrecks in the Great Lakes’ recorded history, providing a snapshot of mid-19th century shipbuilding and operations.
History
The wreck of the Northwestern lies at a depth of 135 ft (41.1 m) in Lake Huron.
Significant Incidents
- The wreck is splayed out from the midship to the stern, but the bow remains relatively intact.
- The transom is disarticulated and lies behind the main wreckage.
- Significant features on the site include:
- Bowsprit and stays, both intact.
- Two wooden stock anchors resting on the bottom below their original stowed positions.
- Anchor windlass, anchor chains, and catheads (used for handling anchors).
- Centerboard trunk, which is heeled over, and the centerboard winch.
- Masts and booms, although toppled and partially buried under wreckage.
- Rudder and tiller, both extant.
- Deadeyes, used for securing rigging.
Final Disposition
The wreck is well-documented by the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, emphasizing its historical significance as an early Great Lakes shipwreck. Its preservation offers a rare opportunity to study early schooner construction and operation.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The site lies at a depth requiring advanced diving skills and technical equipment. Divers should exercise caution due to the fragility of the wreck and adhere to legal protections for underwater cultural heritage. Artifact removal is strictly prohibited.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”northwestern-1847″ title=”References & Links”]
Overall, the Northwestern serves as an important reminder of the maritime history of the Great Lakes and the challenges faced by early navigators.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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