Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Peshtigo
- Type: Barge, later converted to screw steamer
- Year Built: 1869
- Builder: Alvin A. Turner, Trenton, Michigan
- Dimensions: 198.2 ft (60.4 m) × 34.3 ft (10.5 m); Depth of hold 12.9 ft (3.9 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 660 gross tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 18 m / 60 ft
- Location: Round Island Passage, Straits of Mackinac, Lake Huron
- Official Number: 54218
- Original Owners: S.P. Howell, William J. Calhoun, Charles F. Bauer, Fremont B. Chesbrough
- Number of Masts: 2
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Originally built as a large tow barge for the lumber trade between Green Bay and Chicago. In 1896, she was reconstructed as a screw steamer at Wyandot, MI—fitted with a steeple-compound engine (rebuilt from George W. Johnson), delivering 400 hp with an 8’6″ × 15′ firebox boiler.
Description
The Peshtigo was a wooden vessel that transitioned from a tow barge to a screw steamer, reflecting the technological advancements in maritime transport during the late 19th century. Her dimensions post-conversion were 198.2 feet in length, 34.3 feet in beam, and a depth of 12.9 feet.
History
- 20 May 1869: Enrolled in Chicago for the Green Bay–Chicago lumber trade.
- Towed: By Admiral D.D. Porter (1871), Clematis (1876).
- Ownership: 1890: S.P. Howell, Chicago; 1891: William J. Calhoun, Chicago; 1894: Charles F. Bauer, Saginaw; 1896: Fremont B. Chesbrough, Bay City (also rebuilt & converted).
Significant Incidents
In a violent overnight gale on 24 October 1908, the Peshtigo stranded on the shoals near Round Island. Severe structural damage and progressive break-up in shallow water led to abandonment. The vessel was officially documented as stranded and a total loss in 1909 at Marquette.
Final Disposition
The hull remains in shallow shoals off Mackinac’s Round Island. Early observers saw portions of her hull and machinery unlawfully scavenged. Subsequent site surveys discovered remnants but no formal archaeological documentation.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Site known since 1908; documented through local wreck logs and underwater exploration. Identification confirmed by dimensions, engine parts, and hull remnants matching official register.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”peshtigo-1908-us-54218″ title=”References & Links”]
The Peshtigo barge–turned–steamer exemplifies the evolution of Great Lakes working vessels. Her final loss during a lumber cargo transport highlights the enduring risks of autumn storms and the transitions in maritime technology from sail-barge to steam barge in the late 19th century.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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