Sodus (pre1876)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Sodus
• Type: Schooner
• Year Built:
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Length 60-100 ft (18.3-30.5 m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: Approximately three miles north of Big Sandy Creek

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Sodus is classified as a schooner, a type of vessel commonly used for trade and transport on the Great Lakes, particularly in the lumber and agricultural industries.

Description

The Sodus was a wooden-hulled schooner, typical for vessels operating on Lake Ontario. It was primarily engaged in transporting timber, bark, and other cargoes along the Great Lakes. On its final voyage, the Sodus was loaded with bark and wood, departing from Port Ontario and bound for Genesee.

History

The Sodus represents a class of working schooners that were vital to the trade and transport network on Lake Ontario. These vessels typically ranged in length from 60 to 100 feet, designed with a shallow draft to navigate nearshore and harbor areas. The storm of 1876, which led to the wreck of the Sodus, highlighted the dangers of navigating the Great Lakes without adequate safety measures.

Significant Incidents

• The Sodus was wrecked approximately three miles north of Big Sandy Creek during a severe storm on March 14, 1876.
• The vessel and its cargo were total losses, but the crew survived the ordeal.
• Criticism arose regarding the lack of navigational aids at Port Ontario, which contributed to the wreck.

Final Disposition

The Sodus was completely wrecked during the storm, resulting in the total loss of the vessel and its cargo. Fortunately, all crew members survived the incident.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The current condition of the wreck is unknown, but it serves as a reminder of the importance of navigational aids in ensuring maritime safety.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”sodus-pre1876″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]

The wreck of the Sodus underscores the critical need for proper navigational aids to prevent similar maritime disasters in the future. As divers, remember to leave only bubbles and take only memories, ensuring the preservation of such historical sites.