Identification & Site Information:
- Name: Java
- Former Names: None
- Official Number: None
- Date Built and Launched: 1854
- Builder: Weed & Carpenter, Bay City, Michigan
- Specifications: Length 96 feet (29.3 metres), Beam 19 feet (5.8 metres), Depth 7 feet (2.1 metres), Tonnage 128 tons (Old Measurement)
- Date Lost: October 8, 1858
- Place of Loss: Off Dunkirk, New York
- Lake: Erie
Vessel Type:
Two-masted wooden Schooner
Description:
The Java was a medium-sized Schooner built for Great Lakes commerce, particularly between ports such as Detroit and Dunkirk. Designed for bulk cargo, she had moderate dimensions and was part of the busy copper ore trade of the 1850s.
History:
Owned by W.H. and James Craig of Detroit, Java operated on the Great Lakes during a time of expanding industrial activity. On her final voyage, she was transporting a cargo of copper ore from Detroit to Dunkirk. While anchored behind Long Point for shelter during a storm, her anchor chains gave way. The captain attempted to make harbour at Dunkirk, but she was caught in the storm and driven onto the Breakwater. The Schooner was destroyed, though all crew members were rescued by boats launched from shore.
Final Disposition:
Wrecked against Dunkirk’s Breakwater, declared a Total Loss.
Located By & Date Found:
No verified modern discovery of the wreck has been documented.
NOTMARs & Advisories:
None currently issued.
Resources & Links: