Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: White Star
- Type: Schooner / Propeller Bulk Freighter
- Year Built: 1874
- Builder: G. Goble
- Dimensions: Length: 136 ft (41.5 m); Beam: 27 ft (8.2 m); Depth of hold: 12 ft (3.7 m)
- Registered Tonnage: Gross Tonnage: 378 tons; Net Tonnage: 281 tons
- Location: At the foot of Court Street, Port Huron, Michigan
- Official Number: 75610
- Original Owners: Cummings and Griffin of Oswego, New York
- Number of Masts: Schooner rigged
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Type: Originally built as a schooner, the White Star was later converted into a propeller-driven bulk freighter.
Description
Description: The White Star, initially named J. Maria Scott, was a wooden vessel built in 1874. It underwent significant transformations throughout its service life, including a rebuild and conversion to a propeller-driven freighter in 1888.
History
History: The White Star was launched in 1874 and initially served as a schooner. It was renamed in 1884 and faced multiple incidents, including a storm-related sinking in 1887 and a collision in 1899. After being rebuilt, it continued operations until a fire led to its final loss in 1901.
Significant Incidents
- 1887: The White Star sank near Point Pelee, Lake Erie, during a storm while carrying coal.
- 1899: The vessel collided with the propeller steamer Vanderbilt in the St. Clair River, resulting in sinking.
- 1901: A fire broke out while docked in Port Huron, leading to the vessel being scuttled to extinguish the flames, but it was ultimately declared a constructive total loss.
Final Disposition
Final Disposition: After the fire in 1901, the White Star was not rebuilt and was declared a constructive total loss. The engine was salvaged and repurposed, but the hull was likely scrapped or left submerged.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Current Condition & Accessibility: The wreck of the White Star is not accessible for diving, and no specific navigational warnings have been issued regarding its location.
Resources & Links
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The story of the White Star exemplifies the resilience of Great Lakes vessels and their crews. Despite facing numerous challenges, the vessel’s legacy continues to be a significant part of maritime history.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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