Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Ostrich
- Type: Wooden two-masted schooner
- Year Built: 1856
- Builder: unknown
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: ~279 GRT
- Location: Lake Michigan
- Number of Masts: 2
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Type: Wooden two-masted schooner
Description
The Ostrich was a wooden two-masted schooner built in 1856. It had a registered tonnage of approximately 279 gross tons. The master of the vessel was Capt. John McKay.
History
The Ostrich departed from Milwaukee light on October 19, 1892, intending to load hemlock lumber at Torch Lake for its return to Milwaukee. Unfortunately, it encountered the same severe storm that sank the steel freighter W.H. Gilcher.
Significant Incidents
- The Ostrich foundered during the gale of October 27-28, 1892, likely after taking on water and capsizing or sinking.
- All 6 aboard (or possibly 7, as sources vary) perished in the incident.
Final Disposition
Speculation exists that the Ostrich may have collided with the W.H. Gilcher, given they sank in the same storm zone. However, the Ostrich bore no hull damage consistent with such a collision.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck site of the Ostrich remains to be surveyed. Research and archival investigations are recommended to gather more information about the incident and the vessel’s history.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”ostrich-1856″ title=”References & Links”]
The loss of the Ostrich serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by wooden vessels in the Great Lakes, particularly during severe weather events.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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