Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Three Sisters
- Type: Gas Auxiliary Schooner
- Year Built: 1901
- Builder: Jas. Larsen
- Dimensions: 69 ft (21 m); Beam: 20 ft (6.1 m); Depth of hold: 7 ft (2.1 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 52 tons (47.1 metric tonnes)
- Location: Green Bay, near Red River
- Official Number: 145884
- Original Owners: J. Larsen
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The THREE SISTERS was classified as a gas auxiliary schooner, a type of vessel that utilized both sails and a gasoline engine for propulsion.
Description
The THREE SISTERS was a wooden vessel built in 1901 by Jas. Larsen in Fish Creek, Wisconsin. Designed for bulk cargo transport, it was particularly suited for carrying hay across the Great Lakes. The vessel was equipped with a gasoline engine around 1910, making it one of the last commercial schooners on the lakes to receive such an upgrade.
History
Owned and built by J. Larsen out of Marinette, Wisconsin, the THREE SISTERS measured 69 feet in length, with a beam of 20 feet and a depth of 7 feet. The addition of a gas engine allowed her to navigate when wind conditions were unfavorable.
Significant Incidents
- In 1905, the THREE SISTERS stranded in Grand Traverse Bay, suffering significant damage but was salvaged and returned to service.
- On November 4, 1912, the vessel encountered a violent gale in Green Bay, near Red River, leading to her being blown ashore and wrecked, resulting in the loss of all four crew members aboard.
- Among the lost was J. Larsen, the ship’s owner and builder.
- Three bystanders were awarded civilian lifesaving medals for their attempts to rescue the crew, though tragically, none survived.
Final Disposition
The THREE SISTERS was completely wrecked after being driven ashore by the storm in Green Bay on November 4, 1912. The loss of the crew marked a tragic chapter in the history of gas auxiliary schooners.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the THREE SISTERS remains a significant site, though specific details about its current condition are not documented.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”three-sisters-us-145884″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The story of the THREE SISTERS serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by Great Lakes vessels, particularly during storms. It highlights the transition in maritime technology and the bravery of those who risk their lives to save others.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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