Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Toboggan
- Type: Scow, wood, self-unloading
- Year Built: 1886
- Builder: Milwaukee Shipyard Co.
- Dimensions: Approximately 150′ x 30′
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: 15 miles off Milwaukee
- Official Number: (unregistered?)
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Toboggan was a self-unloading wooden scow designed for the transport of bulk goods.
Description
The Toboggan was built in 1886 by the Milwaukee Shipyard Co.. It measured approximately 150 feet in length and 30 feet in beam. The vessel was primarily used for transporting bulk goods, including salt and lumber.
History
On July 12, 1887, while being towed by the steamer MARSHALL F. BUTTERS, the Toboggan capsized and sank in Lake Michigan approximately 15 miles off the coast of Milwaukee. The vessel was reportedly overloaded with 2,000 barrels of salt and 350,000 board feet of lumber, which likely contributed to its instability and subsequent loss.
Significant Incidents
- The Toboggan capsized due to an overloading error during the loading process.
- The crew successfully abandoned the vessel using their yawl, and fortunately, there were no fatalities.
Final Disposition
After capsizing, the Toboggan was lost at sea, and its wreck has presumably never been recovered.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the Toboggan wreck is unknown, as it has not been located since its sinking.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”toboggan” title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
Divers are reminded to respect the site and engage in no-touch documentation methods. Remember to leave only bubbles and take only memories while exploring the underwater heritage of the Toboggan.
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