Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Plymouth
- Type: Schooner-barge
- Year Built: 1854
- Builder: Stephenson & Lafrinier, Ohio City, OH
- Dimensions: ~213 ft × 32 ft × 12 ft; ~846 gross tons
- Registered Tonnage: ~846 gross tons
- Location: Gull Island area, Lake Michigan
- Original Owners: Sternberg & Co., Western Transp. Co., Scott Lumber Co., etc.
- Number of Masts: Three-masted
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Originally a steam-powered cargo vessel later converted into a three-masted schooner-barge.
Description
The Plymouth was built in 1854 and served various owners throughout her career. She was converted to a sail-only barge in 1884 and was known for transporting lumber, including a notable shipment of approximately 100,000 cedar posts in 1912.
History
Throughout her operational years from 1854 to 1913, the Plymouth changed ownership multiple times, serving under companies such as Sternberg & Co., Western Transportation Company, and Scott Lumber Company. Her conversion to a barge allowed her to continue operating in the lumber trade until her final voyage.
Significant Incidents
- Date of loss: November 11, 1913.
- Under tow by: Tug James H. Martin from Menominee, MI, heading to Lake Huron.
- Storm action: During the Great Lakes Storm of 1913, the tug sought shelter, cut the towline, and abandoned the Plymouth.
- Disappearance & fate: The Plymouth vanished with all seven crew members aboard. A bottled note from Deputy Marshal Chris Keenan indicated they had been anchored for 40 hours before disappearing.
Final Disposition
The Plymouth is part of the Great Lakes Storm of 1913, which claimed her and her crew. Despite extensive searches, the wreck has never been found, making it one of three vessels lost during that storm that remain unlocated.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the Plymouth remains unlocated, with potential search areas identified near Gull Island and Poverty Island in northern Lake Michigan. The vessel’s fate continues to intrigue maritime historians and underwater explorers.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”plymouth-1854″ title=”References & Links”]
The Plymouth serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by mariners on the Great Lakes. Her disappearance during the Great Storm of 1913, along with the loss of her crew, highlights the power of nature and the ongoing quest to uncover the mysteries of the deep.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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