Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Saratoga
- Type: Schooner
- Year Built: 1844
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Specific dimensions are not documented in the accessible sources
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: North of the piers on Lake Michigan
- Official Number: Not specified in available records
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Schooner (Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)
Description
The Saratoga was a schooner operating on the Great Lakes during the mid-19th century. While specific details about its construction and service history are scarce, it functioned as part of the extensive commercial shipping network that was vital to the economic development of the Great Lakes region during that era.
History
Information regarding the construction and ownership of the Saratoga is limited. It was part of the commercial shipping fleet that played a crucial role in the Great Lakes economy.
Significant Incidents
- On May 2, 1855, the Saratoga encountered a severe storm while navigating Lake Michigan.
- The vessel was driven ashore north of the piers, where it broke up rapidly due to the heavy weather conditions.
- At the time of the incident, the schooner was carrying a cargo of lumber.
- The rapid destruction of the vessel upon grounding suggests that salvage efforts were likely minimal or nonexistent.
Final Disposition
On May 2, 1855, the Saratoga encountered a severe storm while navigating Lake Michigan. The vessel was driven ashore north of the piers, where it broke up rapidly due to the heavy weather conditions. The schooner was carrying a cargo of lumber at the time of the incident. The rapid destruction of the vessel upon grounding suggests that salvage efforts were likely minimal or nonexistent. (alcheminc.com)
Current Condition & Accessibility
Information regarding the discovery or exploration of the Saratoga wreck site is not available in the current records.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”saratoga-1844″ title=”References & Links”]
The Saratoga serves as a historical example of the risks faced by schooners operating on the Great Lakes in the mid-19th century. Despite the lack of detailed records, the incident underscores the importance of maritime safety and the potential hazards of severe weather conditions on the Great Lakes. Further research into maritime archives and historical records may provide additional insights into the vessel’s specifications, service history, and the circumstances of its loss.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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