Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

White Star (J Maria Scott) US 75610

Explore the history of the White Star, a vessel that faced multiple disasters and remarkable salvage efforts in the Great Lakes.

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

References are being reviewed for this wreck.

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.