Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Polynesia
- Type: wooden three-masted schooner
- Year Built: 1885
- Builder: J. Davidson, West Bay City, Michigan
- Dimensions: 204 ft × 37 ft × 16 ft; 979 GRT / 940 NRT
- Registered Tonnage: 979 GRT / 940 NRT
- Depth at Wreck Site: 100.58 m / 330 ft
- Location: Approximately 20 nautical miles east of Sheboygan, WI
- Official Number: 150347
- Original Owners: James Corrigan & Huntington
- Number of Masts: Three
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Polynesia was a wooden three-masted schooner, primarily used for transporting coal across the Great Lakes.
Description
Built in 1885 by J. Davidson in West Bay City, Michigan, the Polynesia was part of the Corrigan-Huntington fleet. It measured 204 feet in length, 37 feet in beam, and had a hold depth of 16 feet. The vessel was registered with an official number of 150347 and had a gross registered tonnage of 979 and a net registered tonnage of 940.
History
Originally constructed in 1885, the Polynesia was acquired by James Corrigan & Huntington in 1886, operating mainly in coal transport between Buffalo and Chicago. The vessel was towed by the steamer Raleigh during its final voyage.
Significant Incidents
- October 15, 1887: Departed Buffalo in tow of Raleigh, bound for South Chicago.
- October 23, 1887: Encountered a violent storm off Sheboygan, WI, leading to loss of sail and water ingress.
- October 24, 1887, 11 AM: Capt. Kerr ordered abandonment as the vessel sank in approximately 330 feet of water; crew was rescued by Raleigh.
- Casualties: None reported.
Final Disposition
The Polynesia sank approximately 20 nautical miles east of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, in deep water. The estimated value at the time of loss was $58,000. No significant salvage operations were attempted, and the wreck remains undisturbed in cold water.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the Polynesia lies at a depth of about 330 feet, likely well-preserved due to the cold water conditions. It presents potential for future remote-operated vehicle (ROV) documentation.
Resources & Links
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The story of the Polynesia serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by sailing vessels in the Great Lakes, particularly during late-season storms. Its wreck offers insights into maritime history and the operational practices of the time.
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