Identification & Site Information

Final Disposition & Loss

  • Date of Loss: March 1, 1895
  • Location: Racine River, then to Lake Michigan north of Racine near Racine College (baillod.com)
  • Details: Sank in the river at Racine; after salvage efforts she was pumped out, raised, and towed into the lake. Plans to beach near Racine College were Abandoned due to ice. She was cast adrift and subsequently Foundered off the coast few miles offshore. (baillod.com)
  • Lives Lost: None recorded
  • Today: Believed broken up on beach near Racine College; no intact wreck remains.

History & Context

  • Built as a typical mid‑19th century Milwaukee Schooner for lumber transport.
  • Sunk while in port at Racine; salvage operations led to her removal and abandonment in open lake waters.
  • Later research by Brendon Baillod and others confirms she became a wreck site in shallow water, exposing ribs and remnants along the shoreline (baillod.com).

Disposition Significance

The George Barber illustrates the common fate of working schooners of her class: loss in port, salvage, and final abandonment at sea or shoreline. She represents a once-utilitarian vessel that has since vanished, leaving minimal material trace.

Resources & Further Research Links

Conclusion

The Schooner George Barber (built 1857) sank in the Racine River in early 1895, was floated out to Lake Michigan, and deliberately Abandoned after salvage, likely breaking apart along the Racine shoreline. No casualties are recorded, and physical remains have not been preserved. Historical documentation and dive research confirm its identity and fate.