The A.C. Keating was a wooden Schooner-Barge that met its fate on Lake Superior in 1900. Below is a detailed account of the vessel’s specifications, history, and final disposition.

Identification & Site Information

Vessel Type

Wooden Schooner-Barge, a type of vessel commonly used on the Great Lakes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries for transporting bulk cargoes.

Description

The A.C. Keating was a two-masted wooden Schooner-Barge designed for the transportation of bulk goods across the Great Lakes. Such vessels were integral to commerce in the region, facilitating the movement of essential commodities between ports.

History

Built in 1874 by A. Turner in Trenton, Michigan, the A.C. Keating served as a cargo vessel on the Great Lakes for 26 years. On November 8, 1900, while carrying a load of pulpwood, the vessel encountered a severe storm on Lake Superior. The towing Steamer, J.H. Outhwaite, developed engine trouble during the storm and left the A.C. Keating at anchor with two other barges at Coppermine Point, Ontario. The A.C. Keating slipped her hold on the bottom and was driven into the rocky shore, where she broke up. (WhimSea)

Final Disposition

The A.C. Keating was declared a Total Loss following the incident. There are no records indicating that any part of the vessel was salvaged or that the wreck was recovered.

Located By & Date Found

There is no available information indicating that the wreck of the A.C. Keating has been located or identified in modern times.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current navigational markers or advisories related to the wreck site of the A.C. Keating.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The A.C. Keating’s wreck underscores the hazards faced by Schooner-barges navigating the often treacherous waters of Lake Superior. While the vessel’s remains have not been located, its story contributes to the rich Maritime History of the Great Lakes region.

Suggested Keywords, Categories, and Glossary Terms

  • Keywords: A.C. Keating, Lake Superior shipwreck, wooden Schooner-Barge, 1900 storm, Coppermine Point Ontario, pulpwood cargo
  • Categories: Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime Disasters, Wooden Schooner-Barges
  • Glossary Terms:
    • Schooner-Barge: A sailing vessel with two or more masts, typically used for transporting bulk cargoes on the Great Lakes.
    • Pulpwood: Timber suitable for making into pulp for paper production.
    • Stranded: A term used to describe a vessel that has run aground or is stuck on a shore or reef.(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)