Identification & Site Information

  • Name: Carlotta (formerly Adrienne, Thora)
  • Type: Gas Screw Vessel (originally a Sail Yacht, later a Fish Tug)
  • Tonnage:
    • Gross: 14 tons
    • Net: 12 tons
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 39 feet (11.9 meters)
    • Beam: 14 feet (4.3 meters)
    • Depth: 5 feet (1.5 meters)
  • Location: Near Elmwood Beach, off Grand Island, Munising Bay, Lake Superior
  • Year of Loss: August 27, 1913
  • Coordinates: Not specified

Vessel Type Description

The Carlotta began life in 1879 as a luxury sail yacht named Adrienne, constructed by Lawley & Son in Boston, Massachusetts. It was later converted to a Gas Screw vessel in 1910 and served as a fish Tug. With its small size and utilitarian design after Conversion, the Carlotta was well-suited for operations such as fishing and short-distance transportation.

History

The Carlotta had a fascinating and varied life:

  • 1879: Launched as the sail yacht Adrienne, built for leisure and showcasing craftsmanship.
  • Later Years: Renamed Thora and later Carlotta, reflecting its evolving functions.
  • 1910: Converted into a Gas Screw vessel, marking its transition from a luxurious yacht to a practical fish Tug.
  • 1911: Registered officially as the Carlotta under Benjamin Cowles of Buffalo, New York, with the official number 105834.

On August 27, 1913, while navigating near Elmwood Beach, off Grand Island in Munising Bay, Lake Superior, the Carlotta caught fire. The blaze consumed the vessel entirely. Fortunately, both individuals aboard survived, but the vessel was declared a Total Loss.

Final Disposition

The Carlotta was destroyed by fire near Grand Island, Lake Superior. Its remains were not salvaged, and the vessel was rendered unsalvageable. The incident marked the end of its 34-year journey through varying roles and ownership.

Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) & Advisories

There are no current NOTMARs or advisories related to the Carlotta. Given its complete destruction by fire, the site poses no known hazards to navigation.

Located By & Date

The wreckage of the Carlotta has not been formally located. The vessel was last reported near Elmwood Beach, off Grand Island, Munising Bay, Lake Superior, but no modern surveys or explorations have confirmed its location.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The total destruction of the Carlotta by fire suggests minimal remains, if any, are present. As such, the site holds more historical interest than archaeological or diving appeal. Any remnants would likely be difficult to locate or identify.

Resources & Links

Additional Notes

The Carlotta’s history exemplifies the adaptability of vessels on the Great Lakes, transitioning from luxury yacht to working Tug. Its destruction by fire near Grand Island highlights the risks faced by vessels even in relatively calm waters. Despite its modest size, the vessel’s story contributes to the broader maritime narrative of Lake Superior.

Diving Notes & Recommendations

Due to the fire’s destructive nature, the Carlotta’s wreckage is likely minimal, offering limited physical artifacts. Divers exploring the area should not expect substantial finds but may appreciate the historical significance of the site.

Tags• Lake Superior• 19th Century• Schooner• Gas Screw Vessel• Maritime History• Shipwreck

Conclusion

The Carlotta, originally launched as the sail yacht Adrienne, evolved through multiple roles, including service as a fish Tug, reflecting the changing demands on Great Lakes vessels. Its destruction by fire in 1913 near Grand Island marked a somber end to its diverse career. Although its physical remains may be scant, its story enriches the maritime history of Lake Superior, offering a glimpse into the lives of the vessels and sailors who traversed these waters.