Identification and Specifications

  • Vessel Name: COASTER
  • Type: Scow-Schooner
  • Build Location: China, Michigan
  • Build Year: 1848
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 74 feet (22.6 meters)
    • Beam (Width): 18 feet (5.5 meters)
    • Depth: 5 feet (1.5 meters)
    • Tonnage: 63 tons (old measurement system)
  • Owners: Willard & Day

Vessel Type and Role

The COASTER was a scow-Schooner, a type of flat-bothttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpged sailing vessel that was particularly useful for the Great Lakes’ shallow and coastal waters. Known for their stability and cargo capacity, scow-schooners were widely used for transporting goods like lumber, grain, and other materials in the 19th century. The COASTER’s relatively small size made it ideal for short-haul trips between local ports, supporting the regional economy by moving supplies between Michigan, Wisconsin, and surrounding areas.

Incident Summary and Final Voyage

In June or July of 1859, the COASTER encountered a severe gale on Lake Superior and went ashore on the south shore of Presque Isle. The powerful storm conditions drove the vessel aground, resulting in a Total Loss. Fortunately, there were no reports of loss of life, indicating that the crew managed to escape safely.

Cargo and Insurance Details

• Cargo: The COASTER was carrying goods that were mostly saved despite the wreck.

• Insurance: The cargo had insurance coverage through Aetna, providing some financial protection for the owners. However, the Hull of the COASTER was uninsured, resulting in a significant loss for the owners, Willard & Day.

Historical Context and Significance

The wreck of the COASTER is documented in historical records, including the Buffalo Daily Courier (July 8, 1859) and History of the Great Lakes by Mansfield. This incident highlights the perils of early Great Lakes navigation, where sudden storms and rough waters often posed serious threats to wooden vessels. Lake Superior, known for its powerful gales, was especially challenging for smaller vessels like scow-schooners, which were highly susceptible to being driven ashore in severe weather.

Sources and Further Reading

For those interested in exploring more about Great Lakes shipwrecks and maritime history, the following sources provide valuable information:

• Buffalo Daily Courier (July 8, 1859): Reported the incident, documenting the wreck of the COASTER and its uninsured Hull.

• History of the Great Lakes by Mansfield: Offers a comprehensive look at Great Lakes maritime history, including vessel construction, incidents, and economic impact.

Conclusion

The COASTER’s wreck on Lake Superior is a testament to the challenges faced by 19th-century mariners, especially in small trading vessels during unpredictable Great Lakes storms. Built in 1848 and lost in 1859, the COASTER played a vital role in regional trade before its unfortunate demise in a gale. Its uninsured Hull and Total Loss remind us of the financial and physical risks early shipping ventures undertook, contributing to the story of resilience and risk in Great Lakes maritime history.