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: William Young
• Type: Barge
• Year Built: Not specified
• U.S. Registry Number: 26230
• Gross Tonnage: 413 tons
• Final Location: Straits of Mackinac, near Mackinac Island
• Date of Loss: October 1891
• Cause of Loss: Foundered while in tow
• Cargo: Coal
• Value: $11,000
• Owner: Pawme Boat Company
• GPS Coordinates: Not specified

Vessel Type Description:

The William Young was a coal barge designed for bulk cargo transport, a common vessel type on the Great Lakes during the industrial boom of the late 19th century. With a gross tonnage of 413 tons, it was a critical part of the regional supply chain, ferrying coal and other commodities. Barges like the William Young were towed by steamers, enabling the movement of large quantities of goods efficiently.

History:

Operational Role:

The barge served as a critical link in the transportation network of the Great Lakes, carrying coal between key industrial ports.

Final Voyage:

In October 1891, the William Young was part of a tow led by the steamer Nashua, navigating the Straits of Mackinac, a challenging passage connecting Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. Severe weather struck the convoy, resulting in the loss of the William Young and two other barges, the Parsons and the Newsboy.

Crew Survival:

Despite the harsh conditions, the William Young’s captain and crew successfully escaped, and no lives were lost.

Wreck Discovery:

The barge’s remains were later located near the modern-day Mackinac Bridge. Its official number, 26230, was still visible on the wreck, confirming its identity.

Final Disposition:

The William Young was declared a total loss following its sinking. Its cargo of coal was lost, and the vessel remains submerged in the Straits of Mackinac, a testament to the dangers of Great Lakes navigation during the stormy season.

Located By & Date:

The wreck was identified near the Mackinac Bridge in the Straits of Mackinac, though the exact date of discovery is not specified. The wreck was positively identified by its visible registry number.

Notmars & Advisories:

No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are documented for the William Young’s wreck site. However, the area is a busy navigational route, and the wreck would likely be noted as a potential hazard to ensure vessel safety.

Current Condition & Accessibility:

The William Young rests in the Straits of Mackinac, a location known for its historical significance and challenging diving conditions.

The wreck remains an important subject for researchers and divers, contributing to the maritime history of the Great Lakes.

Resources & Links:

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive historical records and narratives.
• NOAA Office of Coast Survey Wrecks and Obstructions Database: Information on shipwreck locations and conditions.
• 3D Shipwrecks: Potential 3D models and data for visualization.
• Great Lakes Maritime Database: A detailed repository of Great Lakes vessels.
• Becky Kegan Schott: Facebook posts with visual insights into the wreck.
• Diving the Great Lakes: Community insights and exploration reports.

Analysis:

The loss of the William Young highlights the perils of navigating the Straits of Mackinac, particularly during harsh weather conditions. The barge played a vital role in transporting coal, underscoring the economic reliance on Great Lakes vessels during the 19th century. The survival of the crew speaks to their resilience and skill, even in dire circumstances. Today, the wreck serves as a historical artifact, offering insights into the maritime challenges of the era.

Keywords:

William Young barge shipwreck, Straits of Mackinac maritime disaster, Mackinac Island shipwrecks, Great Lakes coal transport vessels, 1891 vessel foundering, Great Lakes maritime history.

Conclusion:

The William Young remains a poignant symbol of the maritime history of the Great Lakes. Its wreck near the Straits of Mackinac offers a glimpse into the industrial and navigational challenges faced by vessels of its time. With further research and exploration, the site continues to shed light on the resilience of the sailors and the significance of barges like the William Young in the region’s economic development.

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