Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Scow #1
- Type: Wooden cargo scow
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Foot of Wisconsin Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Official Number: 11895
- Original Owners: Bay de Noquette Lumber Company
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Type: Wooden cargo scow (flat-bottomed barge), typically used for hauling lumber or bulk goods.
Description
The Scow #1 was a wooden cargo scow designed for transporting lumber. It was flat-bottomed, which made it suitable for shallow waters, but also vulnerable to severe weather conditions.
History
Scow #1 was engaged in hauling lumber from Bay de Noquette, Michigan, to Chicago, Illinois, when it encountered severe storm conditions. The vessel broke from its tow and grounded ashore near Milwaukee.
Significant Incidents
- On September 22, 1895, while under tow, Scow #1 broke free and grounded near the foot of Wisconsin Street, Milwaukee.
- Initial salvage efforts were thwarted by a sudden gale, leading to the abandonment of the vessel.
- Rescue operations successfully saved all crew members, with no injuries or fatalities reported.
Final Disposition
The abandoned scow was gradually pounded and dispersed by surf, leading to its effective loss in shallow water. No underwater wreck surveys or dive documentation have recorded remains.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As of now, the wreck site has not been documented through underwater surveys, and the remains of Scow #1 are presumed to have been consumed by wave action.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”scow-1-pre-1895″ title=”References & Links”]
This case illustrates the challenges faced by 19th-century cargo scows, including minimal structural resilience and high exposure to storm stress. The story of Scow #1 is documented in various historical accounts and offers insights into maritime operations of the time.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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