Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Wasago
- Type: Wooden Package Freight Propeller
- Year Built: June 1, 1876
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length 238 ft (72.5 m); Beam 35 ft (10.7 m); Depth of hold 14 ft (4.3 m)
- Registered Tonnage: Gross: 1,619 tons; Net: 1,423 tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 9.1 m / 30 ft
- Location: Copper Harbor, Michigan
- Official Number: C 117084
- Original Owners: Originally U.S.-registered as Wissahickon; later renamed Wasago and re-registered under the Canadian flag.
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Type: Wooden Package Freight Propeller
Description
The Wasago, originally named Wissahickon, was a wooden package freight propeller built in 1876. It measured 238 feet in length, 35 feet in beam, and had a depth of 14 feet. The vessel was registered with a gross tonnage of 1,619 tons and a net tonnage of 1,423 tons.
History
The Wasago was constructed in the United States and was initially registered under the name Wissahickon. It was later renamed Wasago and re-registered under the Canadian flag as C 117084. The vessel was primarily used for transporting cargo, including farming machinery and supplies.
Significant Incidents
- Date of Loss: November 6, 1910
- Location: Copper Harbor, Michigan, Lake Superior
- Voyage: From Toronto, Ontario, to Fort William, Ontario
- Cargo: Farming machinery and supplies
Final Disposition
The Wasago was seeking shelter from heavy northwest gales when a fire broke out onboard. The vessel burned to the waterline and sank in 30 feet (9.1 meters) of water. The hull and cargo were declared a total loss, valued at $200,000. Despite the total destruction of the rest of the ship, the engines were salvaged.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As of now, the wreck of the Wasago lies submerged in Lake Superior, approximately 30 feet deep. The site may be accessible for diving, but conditions can vary based on weather and water clarity.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”wasago-wissahickon-c-117084″ title=”References & Links”]
The story of the Wasago serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by Great Lakes vessels in the early 20th century. Its fiery demise, alongside other maritime incidents, highlights the unpredictable conditions of navigation during that era.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
Join Shotline to read more →