Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Olga (formerly Sandusky)
- Type: Wooden Schooner-Barge
- Year Built: 1873
- Builder: Gibraltar, Michigan
- Dimensions: Length: 178.4 ft (54.4 m); Beam: 33.3 ft (10.1 m); Depth of hold: 12.6 ft (3.8 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 593 tons
- Location: Three miles above Goderich, Ontario, Lake Huron
- Official Number: 115141
- Original Owners: Captain Edward Prill of Tonawanda, New York
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Olga, originally launched as the Sandusky, was a prominent wooden schooner-barge operating on the Great Lakes.
Description
In its later years, the vessel was primarily engaged in the lumber trade, transporting large quantities of timber across Lake Huron and surrounding waterways.
History
The Olga became a derelict during a fierce storm on Lake Huron after breaking loose from the steamer Meyers, which was towing the schooner. Over two stormy days, the unmanned vessel drifted helplessly before stranding near Goderich, Ontario, during a snowstorm. The wreck resulted in significant damage to the vessel and a partial loss of its cargo of 800,000 feet of lumber, of which 300,000 feet were lost.
Significant Incidents
- Date: November 30 – December 2, 1905
- Location: Went ashore three miles above Goderich, Ontario, Lake Huron
Final Disposition
The Olga was released from its grounded position and towed to Port Huron for dry-docking and repairs. By April 1906, the vessel was refitted at Sarnia, Ontario, and resumed service in the lumber trade under the ownership of Captain Edward Prill of Tonawanda, New York.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The Olga serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by maritime operators on the Great Lakes, particularly during severe weather conditions.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”olga-sandusky-us-115141″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The Olga, despite its challenges, contributed to the robust maritime trade of its era and remains a symbol of resilience amidst the Great Lakes’ often-unforgiving conditions.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
Join Shotline to read more →