Identification & Site Information

  • Name: IOWA
  • Former Names: None
  • Official Number: None
  • Date Built and Launched: Not specified
  • Measurements: Not specified
  • Date Lost: Late July 1840
  • Place of Loss: Approximately 9.7 kilometres (6 miles) off Dunkirk, New York
  • Lake: Erie
  • Type of Loss: Collision
  • Loss of Life: None
  • Cargo: Light

Vessel Type

Wooden Schooner.

Description

The IOWA was a wooden Schooner operating on the Great Lakes during the early 19th century. Specific details regarding its construction, dimensions, and ownership are limited.

History

In late July 1840, the Schooner IOWA was en route from Buffalo, New York, to Huron, Ohio. Approximately 9.7 kilometres (6 miles) off the coast of Dunkirk, New York, the IOWA collided with the Steamer ERIE. Despite the severity of the collision, there were no reported casualties among the crew. The IOWA was a Total Loss and sank at the site of the collision. 

Final Disposition

Following the collision, the IOWA sank and was considered a Total Loss. There are no records indicating salvage operations or recovery efforts.

Located By & Date Found

Information regarding the discovery or exact location of the IOWA’s wreck remains unavailable.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current navigational warnings or advisories related to the IOWA shipwreck site.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The IOWA’s sinking serves as a historical example of the challenges faced by early Great Lakes navigation, particularly concerning vessel collisions during a period when maritime traffic was increasing in the region