Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

South West (1866)

Explore the wreck of the South West, a wooden schooner lost in 1898 in Lake Superior, offering a glimpse into Great Lakes maritime history.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: SOUTH WEST
  • Type: Wooden schooner
  • Year Built: 1866
  • Builder: Not specified
  • Dimensions: Length: 137 ft (41.8 m); Beam; Depth of hold
  • Registered Tonnage: Not available
  • Depth at Wreck Site: 30.5 m / 100 ft
  • Location: 1.5 miles southeast of the largest of the Huron Islands
  • Official Number: Not available
  • Original Owners: Not specified
  • Number of Masts: Not specified

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Wooden schooner

Description

The SOUTH WEST was a 137-foot (41.8-meter) wooden schooner constructed in 1866. Specific details regarding her beam, depth, tonnage, and design features are not readily available in existing records. She served on the Great Lakes for over three decades, a testament to the durability and utility of wooden schooners during that era.

History

Information about the operational history of the SOUTH WEST, including her routes, cargoes, and ownership, is scarce. She was part of the extensive fleet of wooden schooners that played a crucial role in the commercial activities on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. These vessels were instrumental in transporting goods such as lumber, coal, and other bulk materials across the lakes, contributing significantly to the economic development of the region.

Significant Incidents

On September 18, 1898, the SOUTH WEST ran aground one and a half miles southeast of the largest of the Huron Islands in Lake Superior during heavy fog. The vessel was declared a total loss following the incident. The crew abandoned ship and reached safety in their yawl.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the SOUTH WEST lies in approximately 100 feet (30.5 meters) of water near the Huron Islands in Lake Superior. The exact date of discovery is not specified in the available records.

Current Condition & Accessibility

No navigational warnings or advisories have been issued concerning the SOUTH WEST.

Resources & Links

The loss of the SOUTH WEST adds to the numerous maritime incidents that have occurred on the Great Lakes. While specific details about the vessel are limited, her story contributes to the rich tapestry of Great Lakes maritime history. Further research in regional archives and historical societies may uncover more information about this vessel.