Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Washington Irving
- Type: Schooner (Wooden, Two-Masted)
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions: 81 ft (24.69 m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Off the coast of Dunkirk, New York
- Coordinates: Exact coordinates not specified
- Number of Masts: Two
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Washington Irving was a robust wooden two-masted schooner, a common design for Great Lakes cargo transport during the 19th century. With a length of 81 feet, the vessel was well-suited for hauling bulk goods such as coal and pig iron, essential commodities in the industrialization of the Great Lakes region. Its simple yet efficient design allowed for economic transport and ease of operation in the often challenging waters of the lakes.
Description
The Washington Irving was engaged in the vital trade network of the Great Lakes, carrying coal and pig iron from Erie to Buffalo when it encountered its tragic end. On July 7, 1860, the schooner was caught in a violent storm while navigating Lake Erie near Dunkirk, New York.
The storm, typical of the unpredictable and often brutal weather on the Great Lakes, overwhelmed the vessel. Despite the crew’s heroic efforts to save the ship and themselves, the storm’s intensity proved insurmountable. The schooner sank, taking its entire crew of six to their deaths. The loss of the Washington Irving was one of many maritime tragedies that highlighted the perils of 19th-century lake navigation.
History
The wreck of the Washington Irving now lies at the bottom of Lake Erie, near Dunkirk, New York. The shipwreck, though a tragic loss, has become a poignant memorial to the lives of the six crew members who perished in the storm. It serves as a historical marker of the dangers faced by mariners who navigated the Great Lakes during this era.
Significant Incidents
- The Washington Irving sank during a storm on July 7, 1860, resulting in the loss of all six crew members.
Final Disposition
The condition of the Washington Irving wreck is unknown due to the lack of detailed modern surveys or documentation. However, the site is of interest to divers and maritime historians who are drawn to its historical significance and the stories it holds. The wreck’s location near Dunkirk makes it a compelling subject for exploration and remembrance.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The loss of the Washington Irving is emblematic of the risks associated with 19th-century maritime commerce on the Great Lakes. Storms were a constant threat, and vessels like the Washington Irving, despite their sturdy construction, were often no match for the fury of nature. The wreck serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifices of sailors who played a crucial role in the economic development of the Great Lakes region.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”washington-irving” title=”References & Links”]
The Washington Irving exemplifies the dangers and challenges of early maritime trade on the Great Lakes. Its loss in the storm of July 7, 1860, and the tragic death of its six crew members underscore the perilous nature of sailing in these waters. The wreck remains a solemn tribute to their bravery and a historical artifact that continues to draw interest and respect from those who seek to preserve and honor the maritime heritage of Lake Erie.
Legacy Notes & Full Historical Record
This section preserves the original unedited Shotline content for this wreck so that no historical detail is lost as we transition to the new logbook format.
Identification & Site Information
- Vessel Name: Washington Irving
- Vessel Type: Schooner (Wooden, Two-Masted)
- Year of Loss: 1860
- Dimensions:
- 81 feet in length
- Final Location: Off the coast of Dunkirk, New York, Lake Erie
- Coordinates: Exact coordinates not specified
- Cargo:
- Coal
- pig iron
- Depth: Not specified
Vessel Type Description
The Washington Irving was a robust wooden two-masted schooner, a common design for Great Lakes cargo transport during the 19th century. With a length of 81 feet, the vessel was well-suited for hauling bulk goods such as coal and pig iron, essential commodities in the industrialization of the Great Lakes region. Its simple yet efficient design allowed for economic transport and ease of operation in the often challenging waters of the lakes.
History
The Washington Irving was engaged in the vital trade network of the Great Lakes, carrying coal and pig iron from Erie to Buffalo when it encountered its tragic end. On July 7, 1860, the schooner was caught in a violent storm while navigating Lake Erie near Dunkirk, New York.
The storm, typical of the unpredictable and often brutal weather on the Great Lakes, overwhelmed the vessel. Despite the crew’s heroic efforts to save the ship and themselves, the storm’s intensity proved insurmountable. The schooner sank, taking its entire crew of six to their deaths. The loss of the Washington Irving was one of many maritime tragedies that highlighted the perils of 19th-century lake navigation.
Final Disposition
The wreck of the Washington Irving now lies at the bothttps://shotlinediving.comwp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpg of Lake Erie, near Dunkirk, New York. The shipwreck, though a tragic loss, has become a poignant memorial to the lives of the six crew members who perished in the storm. It serves as a historical marker of the dangers faced by mariners who navigated the Great Lakes during this era.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The condition of the Washington Irving wreck is unknown due to the lack of detailed modern surveys or documentation. However, the site is of interest to divers and maritime historians who are drawn to its historical significance and the stories it holds. The wreck’s location near Dunkirk makes it a compelling subject for exploration and remembrance.
Significance
The loss of the Washington Irving is emblematic of the risks associated with 19th-century maritime commerce on the Great Lakes. Storms were a constant threat, and vessels like the Washington Irving, despite their sturdy construction, were often no match for the fury of nature. The wreck serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifices of sailors who played a crucial role in the economic development of the Great Lakes region.
Resources & Links
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Provides context and details of vessels and shipwrecks in the region.
- NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory: Information on the environmental conditions of the Great Lakes.
- Great Lakes Shipwreck Preservation Society: Focuses on the preservation of submerged cultural heritage.
Keywords
Washington Irving, Schooner, Lake Erie Shipwreck, Dunkirk New York, 19th-Century Maritime Tragedy, Coal Transport, Pig Iron Cargo, Great Lakes History, Sailors’ Sacrifice.
Conclusion
The Washington Irving exemplifies the dangers and challenges of early maritime trade on the Great Lakes. Its loss in the storm of July 7, 1860, and the tragic death of its six crew members underscore the perilous nature of sailing in these waters. The wreck remains a solemn tribute to their bravery and a historical artifact that continues to draw interest and respect from those who seek to preserve and honor the maritime heritage of Lake Erie.
washington-irving 1860-03-14 07:51:00