Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Seabird
- Type: Wooden two-masted schooner
- Year Built: 1862
- Builder:
- Dimensions:
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Lake Erie, likely near Erie, PA
- Number of Masts: 2
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Seabird was a wooden two-masted schooner, primarily used for cargo transport.
Description
On her last voyage, the Seabird was carrying coal when she encountered severe weather conditions that ultimately led to her grounding.
History
The Seabird was built in 1862 and served in various capacities until her loss in April 1873. She was caught in a storm on Lake Erie and driven ashore, where salvage attempts were made but ultimately abandoned.
Significant Incidents
- Date of Loss: April 1873
- Location: Lake Erie — exact grounding point unknown (likely near Erie, PA, based on tug origin)
- Incident Description: Caught in heavy weather, the Seabird was driven ashore. Despite efforts by the tug H. N. Martin and an Erie-based schooner, the vessel was deemed a total loss.
Final Disposition
The Seabird was abandoned after being driven ashore and is believed to have been left stranded and broken beyond repair. No records indicate recovery efforts were successful.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The expected remains of the Seabird include broken hull and deck debris near the shoreline, possibly buried under beach sediments or salvaged for timber. The wreck is aged and weathered, likely not visible above water, and no recent surveys have identified remains.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”seabird-1862″ title=”References & Links”]
The Seabird represents a piece of maritime history, lost to the elements and time. With no modern surveys conducted, her remains may still lie hidden along the shores of Lake Erie, awaiting discovery.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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