Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Pilgrim
- Type: Wooden propeller-driven vessel
- Year Built: 1888
- Builder: R. Rogers, Saugatuck, Michigan
- Dimensions: 119 ft (36.3 m) length × 23 ft beam × 9 ft depth; 300 GRT / 256 NRT
- Registered Tonnage: 300 GRT / 256 NRT
- Location: Near Fort Gratiot, Lake Huron
- Official Number: 150433
- Original Owners: C. W. Thompson of St. Clair, Michigan
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Wooden propeller-driven vessel used for passenger and package freight service.
Description
The Pilgrim was a wooden propeller schooner built in 1888, measuring 119 feet in length, 23 feet in beam, and 9 feet in depth. It had a registered tonnage of 300 gross tons and 256 net tons.
History
The Pilgrim was constructed by R. Rogers in Saugatuck, Michigan, and was primarily used for transporting passengers and freight. At the time of its loss, it was owned by C. W. Thompson and captained by A. H. Cotton.
Significant Incidents
- Date & Route: April 29, 1907 — early-season run from St. Clair toward Detroit.
- Cargo & Passengers: Carrying six passengers and farm produce.
- Incident: Struck an ice floe, which sprung a leak in her bottom. Crew diverted to beach her deliberately near Fort Gratiot to avoid sinking. High water levels caused her to be driven far up the beach, beyond salvage reach.
- Casualties: None — all passengers and crew rescued safely by local vessels and fishing watermen.
Final Disposition
The Pilgrim was declared a total (constructive) loss. It was salvaged for gear, but the hull was abandoned and later broke up in place. After the incident, it was stripped of reusable equipment and left to gradually disintegrate on the beach.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the Pilgrim is no longer intact, having broken up over time. The exact location of the wreck may be difficult to access due to its condition and the surrounding environment.
Resources & Links
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The Pilgrim serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes, particularly during the ice-laden months of early spring. Its story highlights the importance of safety and preparedness in maritime operations.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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