W.H. Davy (1856)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: W.H. Davy
• Type: Wooden Schooner
• Year Built: 1856
• Builder: Hazelton at Bath, Ontario
• Dimensions: 98 × 24 × 9 ft; Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage: 226 tons
• Location: Lake Erie, near Middle Sister Island (~2 miles west)
• Number of Masts: Two-masted

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Wooden two-masted schooner, primarily used for transporting coal.

Description

The W.H. Davy was a wooden schooner built in 1856, measuring approximately 98 feet in length, 24 feet in beam, and 9 feet in depth. It had a registered tonnage of 226 tons.

History

The W.H. Davy was constructed by Hazelton at Bath, Ontario, and was primarily engaged in the coal trade. On its final voyage, it was en route from Cleveland, Ohio, to Goderich, Ontario.

Significant Incidents

• Final Voyage: On September 8, 1860, the vessel sprang a leak amid worsening weather conditions.
• Outcome: It foundered during a gale on Lake Erie, approximately 2 miles west of Middle Sister Island.
• Crew Actions: The crew climbed the rigging and remained there for about 18 hours during the storm.
• Rescue: They were eventually rescued by the tug T. Whitney, with no casualties reported.

Final Disposition

The W.H. Davy sank soon after taking on water. The specifics of the wreck site’s condition are unclear, and no known modern surveys or dives have been documented.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck is likely lying in moderate-depth waters typical of the region, but its exact condition remains unknown.

Resources & Links

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The W.H. Davy foundered during a storm on Lake Erie on September 8, 1860, after leaking and sinking 2 miles west of Middle Sister Island. The crew survived by clinging to the rigging until rescued by tug T. Whitney. Further research and exploration could enhance understanding of this lesser-known wreck.