Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

Vernon US 161557

Explore the wreck of the Vernon, a 1886 screw steamer sunk in 1887, lying at 210 ft in Lake Michigan. A site rich in maritime history and archaeological significance.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: Vernon
  • Type: Screw Steamer
  • Year Built: 1886
  • Builder:
  • Dimensions: Length: 159 ft (48.46 m); Width: 26 ft (7.92 m); Depth: 19 ft (5.79 m)
  • Registered Tonnage:
  • Depth at Wreck Site: 64 m / 210 ft
  • Location: Lake Michigan, Wisconsin
  • Coordinates: N 44° 12.125′, W 087° 24.738′
  • Official Number: 161557

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Vernon was a wooden-hulled screw steamer designed primarily for package freight transportation, showcasing the engineering of late 19th-century maritime vessels.

Description

The wreck of the Vernon lies at a depth of 210 ft (64 m) in Lake Michigan. Significant portions of the vessel remain intact, including:

  • Hull and Cargo Cabins: Fully intact, preserving the overall structure of the vessel.
  • Engine Room: Still present, showcasing the double-expansion steam engine and associated machinery.
  • Package Freight Remnants: Many remnants of the ship’s cargo remain visible on the site.
  • Upper Deck and Pilot House: Detached and located at a shallower depth of 160 ft (48.8 m), a short distance from the main wreck site.

History

The Vernon was built in 1886 and tragically sank in 1887 during a fierce storm on Lake Michigan, resulting in significant loss of life. This incident highlights the dangers faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes, especially during adverse weather conditions. The wreck and its cargo provide valuable insights into 19th-century maritime commerce and ship design.

Significant Incidents

  • 1887: The Vernon sank during a storm on Lake Michigan, leading to a tragic loss of life.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the Vernon is protected under Wisconsin law as part of its underwater cultural heritage. Divers are encouraged to respect the site and refrain from disturbing or removing artifacts, adhering to the principle of ‘leave only bubbles, take only memories.’

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck is in a well-preserved state, making it a sought-after site for technical divers and maritime historians. Visibility can vary, but Lake Michigan often offers good conditions at these depths.

Resources & Links

The Vernon serves as a poignant reminder of the perils of Great Lakes navigation in the late 19th century. Its intact structure and cargo provide a rare archaeological site, offering insights into the era’s ship construction and maritime practices.