Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: PHILIP MINCH
• Type: Steamer
• Year Built:
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage: 3,000 tons
• Depth at Wreck Site: 13.7 m / 45 ft
• Location: Lake Erie, approximately 6 miles east of Chickenole Reef and near Middle Island
• Original Owners: Minch Co., Fairport, Ohio

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The PHILIP MINCH was a steam-powered freighter, part of the essential fleet transporting bulk cargo such as coal across the Great Lakes. With a gross tonnage of 3,000 tons, it was a sizable vessel, designed to withstand the challenging conditions of the lakes. Owned by Minch Co. of Fairport, Ohio, the PHILIP MINCH served reliably as a workhorse of the shipping industry before its tragic loss.

Description

The wreck of the PHILIP MINCH was discovered in November 1904 by Captain Otto Biemiller of the tug THISTLE. It lay in Canadian waters, approximately 6 miles east of Chickenole Reef and near Middle Island, at a depth of 45 feet. Initially, a broken spar held by rigging was visible above the surface, posing a significant hazard to navigation. To address this, a barrel buoy with red and black horizontal stripes was placed to warn mariners. In September 1905, the wreck was partially destroyed with explosives to create a safer depth for vessels.

History

On November 20, 1904, the PHILIP MINCH departed Conneaut, Ohio, heading for its next port to load coal. During the early hours of the voyage, approximately 8 miles east of Marblehead Light, disaster struck when a fire erupted in the ship’s stern. The crew fought valiantly to control the blaze, but it spread uncontrollably. Captain B. A. Benson ordered an evacuation, and the 17 crew members abandoned the burning vessel in yawl boats. The crew safely reached Sandusky, Ohio, but lost all personal belongings. The cause of the fire was never determined. The PHILIP MINCH was completely consumed by the flames and sank, leaving only charred remnants. Its loss marked the end of a vessel that had served its owners faithfully for many years.

Significant Incidents

• November 20, 1904: Fire erupts in the stern of the PHILIP MINCH, leading to evacuation and sinking.
• Discovery of the wreck in November 1904 by Captain Otto Biemiller.
• September 1905: Wreck partially destroyed with explosives to improve navigation safety.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the PHILIP MINCH was discovered in November 1904 by Captain Otto Biemiller of the tug THISTLE. It lay in Canadian waters, approximately 6 miles east of Chickenole Reef and near Middle Island, at a depth of 45 feet. Initially, a broken spar held by rigging was visible above the surface, posing a significant hazard to navigation. To address this, a barrel buoy with red and black horizontal stripes was placed to warn mariners. In September 1905, the wreck was partially destroyed with explosives to create a safer depth for vessels.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck lies at the bottom of Lake Erie, heavily deteriorated and partially destroyed. Its accessibility for diving is unknown, but given the wreck’s age and the intervention to remove navigational hazards, it is likely scattered and in poor condition. Advanced divers should consult local resources and exercise caution.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”philip-minch” title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]

The loss of the PHILIP MINCH serves as a somber reminder of the perils faced by early 20th-century mariners on the Great Lakes. Despite its robust design and skilled crew, the vessel succumbed to an uncontrollable fire, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most reliable ships. The subsequent marking and partial removal of the wreck reflect the ongoing challenges posed by shipwrecks to navigation. The PHILIP MINCH remains a poignant chapter in the history of Lake Erie, symbolizing both the bravery of its crew and the unforgiving nature of the inland seas.