Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Sunshine
• Type: Steamer (assumed)
• Year Built: 1854
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Unknown
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: Presumed Detroit River or Detroit docklands
• Coordinates: Not recorded
• Official Number: Unknown
• Original Owners: F. W. Ryder, Detroit, Michigan

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

While precise construction details are not confirmed, Sunshine was most likely a small wooden steam vessel, possibly a tug or utility craft, typical of mid-19th century harbor operations. Such vessels often served in ferrying, towing, or local cargo movement roles on the Detroit River and surrounding ports.

Built in 1854, she would have been considered a veteran vessel by 1906—over 50 years old. Steamers of this class generally featured low-pressure boilers, vertical engines, and wooden superstructures, making them highly vulnerable to fire, especially when docked and unattended.

Description

The Sunshine served during a transformative era on the Great Lakes, likely witnessing everything from the rise of iron-hulled vessels to the spread of propeller-driven steamers. Though not widely reported in maritime registries or shipping lists, her long service suggests a role in local or regional harbor operations.

Owned at the time of her destruction by F. W. Ryder of Detroit, her presence at moorings indicates she may have been retired or undergoing maintenance.

History

On November 28, 1906, the Sunshine caught fire while tied up at her moorings. There are no reports of casualties, and the cause of the fire remains speculative. However, due to her wooden construction and potential onboard fuel or flammable material, the fire quickly consumed the vessel, rendering her a total loss.

Significant Incidents

• On November 28, 1906, the Sunshine caught fire while tied up at her moorings.
• No casualties were reported.
• The cause of the fire remains speculative.

Final Disposition

The Sunshine was burned to a total loss at her moorings, presumed to be in the Detroit River or docklands.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The current condition of the wreck is unknown, as it was destroyed at mooring and no site is expected to be found.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”sunshine” title=”References & Links”]

The Sunshine represents a piece of maritime history from the mid-19th century, illustrating the vulnerabilities of wooden vessels in an era of rapid technological change.