Shotline Diving

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William L. Axford US 62468

Explore the history of the WILLIAM L. AXFORD, a scow schooner lost in Lake Huron, highlighting its service and the challenges faced by Great Lakes mariners.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: WILLIAM L. AXFORD
  • Type: Scow Schooner (Wooden, Two-Masted)
  • Year Built: 1870
  • Builder: New Baltimore, Michigan
  • Dimensions: 60 ft (18.3 m); Beam: 15 ft (4.6 m); Depth of hold: 4 ft (1.2 m)
  • Registered Tonnage: 33
  • Location: Pointe aux Barques, Michigan
  • Official Number: 62468
  • Original Owners: William Grenier, Delos Duroy, William H. Campbell, Joseph Bell, Edward Merchant, L. Merchant, George N. Manner
  • Number of Masts: Two

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type: Scow Schooner (Wooden, Two-Masted)

Description

The WILLIAM L. AXFORD was a wooden, two-masted scow schooner built in 1870 in New Baltimore, Michigan. It measured 60 feet in length, 15 feet in beam, and had a depth of hold of 4 feet. With a gross tonnage of 33, it was designed for versatility in transporting goods across the Great Lakes.

History

The ownership of the WILLIAM L. AXFORD changed hands several times throughout its operational life. Originally owned by William Grenier of Swan Creek, Michigan, it was acquired by Delos Duroy on May 4, 1887. Subsequent owners included William H. Campbell (as of August 15, 1888), Joseph Bell (ownership transferred on June 25, 1890), Edward Merchant (owner from August 30, 1890), L. Merchant (owned on August 31, 1891), and finally George N. Manner, who acquired the vessel on November 4, 1891.

Significant Incidents

  • Date of Loss: Either May 16, 1893, or May 26, 1893 (sources vary).
  • Location: Pointe aux Barques, Michigan, Lake Huron.
  • Cause: Stranded during a storm and declared a total loss.

Final Disposition

The WILLIAM L. AXFORD was abandoned and left stranded at Pointe aux Barques. Its official documents were surrendered at Port Huron on December 30, 1899, formally marking the end of its maritime career.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The current condition of the wreck is not documented, but it remains a significant historical site reflecting the challenges of navigation in Lake Huron.

Resources & Links

References are being reviewed for this wreck.

The WILLIAM L. AXFORD serves as a reminder of the vital role of schooners in Great Lakes commerce and the perils faced by mariners. Its loss and the subsequent rescue of its crew highlight the importance of maritime safety efforts in the region’s history.