Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Thomas Kingsford
- Type: Wooden schooner
- Year Built: 1856
- Builder: Unknown (likely at an Upper Great Lakes yard)
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: Unknown
- Depth at Wreck Site: 7.6 m / 25 ft
- Location: Waugoshance Reef, Straits of Mackinac
- Coordinates: Approximately 25 ft from the lighthouse pier
- Official Number: Unknown
- Original Owners: Unknown
- Number of Masts: Unknown
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Wooden schooner used for general commerce.
Description
The Thomas Kingsford was a wooden schooner built in 1856, primarily engaged in general commerce on the Great Lakes. The vessel was lost on April 8, 1871, due to severe ice conditions near Waugoshance Lighthouse.
History
During its operational years, the Thomas Kingsford was involved in mid-Great Lakes commerce. At the time of its loss, the vessel was 15 years old and still active. The wrecking incident occurred during the early spring break-up when ice conditions became perilous.
Significant Incidents
- On April 8, 1871, the Thomas Kingsford became trapped near Waugoshance Lighthouse due to shifting ice.
- The hull was progressively crushed by strong ice pressure, leading to its sinking in approximately 26 ft of water.
- Rescue attempts by the tug Michigan were thwarted by the violent ice conditions.
Final Disposition
The wreck of the Thomas Kingsford was found intact but heavily split amidships. Salvage operations began in June 1871, recovering some anchors, chain, and rigging, while the remainder of the hull was deemed unsalvageable.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck remains in situ at a depth of approximately 26 ft. It is heavily split amidships but still offers opportunities for diver and AUV documentation.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”thomas-kingsford-1856″ title=”References & Links”]
The Thomas Kingsford wreck serves as a significant case study of ice hazards in the Straits of Mackinac, providing insights into 19th-century navigation and salvage practices.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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