Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Oscar Townsend
- Type: Propeller, wood, steam barge
- Year Built: 1873
- Builder: E. Fitzgerald
- Dimensions: Length: 193 ft (58.8 m); Beam: 34 ft (10.4 m); Depth of hold: 14 ft (4.3 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 1038 tons (939 metric tonnes)
- Location: 8 miles off Lexington, Michigan
- Official Number: 19385
- Original Owners: J. Root, Tecumseh, Michigan
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The OSCAR TOWNSEND was a wooden-hulled steam barge designed for bulk cargo transport, primarily engaged in the coal trade across the Great Lakes.
Description
Constructed in 1873 by E. Fitzgerald in Port Huron, Michigan, the OSCAR TOWNSEND featured a 458-horsepower engine and had a significant tonnage capacity of over 1000 tons. At the time of her loss, she was owned by J. Root of Tecumseh, Michigan.
History
The OSCAR TOWNSEND was primarily engaged in the coal trade, making voyages to various ports around the Great Lakes. Her construction and operational history reflect the importance of steam-powered vessels in the late 19th century.
Significant Incidents
- October 28, 1891: The OSCAR TOWNSEND suffered a fire caused by an exploding lamp in the lamp room while bound for Escanaba.
- The crew was successfully rescued by the nearby tug MYSTIC.
- The vessel was burned to a total loss and sank 8 miles off Lexington, Michigan.
Final Disposition
The fire on the OSCAR TOWNSEND resulted in her sinking, but fortunately, there were no casualties among the crew due to the timely rescue efforts of the MYSTIC.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the OSCAR TOWNSEND remains submerged in Lake Huron. Divers are encouraged to practice no-touch documentation methods and to leave the site better than they found it.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”oscar-townsend-us-19385″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The loss of the OSCAR TOWNSEND serves as a reminder of the dangers of fire aboard ships. The swift actions of the MYSTIC ensured the survival of her crew, highlighting the importance of safety measures in maritime operations.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
Join Shotline to read more →