Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: S.H. Kimball
- Type: Wooden schooner-barge (bulk freight)
- Year Built: 1864
- Builder: I. Nicholas, Vermilion, Ohio
- Dimensions: 138 ft × 26 ft × 12 ft (42.0 m × 7.9 m × 3.7 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 319 gross tons / 303 net tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 183 m / 600 ft
- Location: ~38 miles NW of Pointe Aux Barques, Michigan
- Coordinates: Unknown (deep water, ~600 ft)
- Official Number: 22374
- Original Owners: Likely M.A. Bradley, Cleveland (further confirmation required)
- Number of Masts: Not specified
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The S.H. Kimball was classified as a wooden schooner-barge, primarily used for bulk freight transport on the Great Lakes.
Description
The S.H. Kimball was a wooden schooner-barge built in Vermilion, Ohio, in 1864. Measuring 138 ft in length with a 26 ft beam and 12 ft depth of hold, she registered 319 gross tons. Like many vessels of her type, she operated as a towed bulk freighter, carrying coal and other cargoes on the Great Lakes. The vessel’s design reflected the economic trend of converting schooners for tow service during the late 19th century, when steam power dominated primary propulsion.
History
In May 1895, S.H. Kimball was under tow of the steamer George Stone on Lake Huron with a cargo of soft coal. On 8 May, while navigating in dense fog about 38 miles northwest of Pointe Aux Barques, Michigan, the barge became separated from her tow. In attempting to rejoin, the George Stone collided head-on with the barge in the fog. The impact holed the hull, causing rapid flooding.
The barge sank quickly into ~100 fathoms of water (approximately 600 ft / 183 m). Fortunately, her crew were rescued by the steamer and no lives were lost.
Significant Incidents
- Collision with the steamer George Stone in fog on 8 May 1895.
- Rapid flooding led to the sinking of the S.H. Kimball.
Final Disposition
Declared a total loss, the S.H. Kimball came to rest in deep water in Lake Huron. No salvage attempts are recorded due to the great depth. The wreck has not been located by modern survey and remains undiscovered.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Not dive accessible. Estimated wreck depth ~600 ft (183 m) precludes conventional diving. Potential subject for remote sensing or submersible survey.
Emergency Contacts: U.S. Coast Guard Saginaw / Detroit Sectors
Permits: Research permits required under U.S. law for disturbance.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”s-h-kimball-us-22374″ title=”References & Links”]
The S.H. Kimball remains a significant historical wreck, representing the maritime history of the Great Lakes and the challenges faced by vessels during the era of steam-powered navigation.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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