IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

  • Vessel Name: LAURA BELL (also known as Laura Belle)
  • Type: Schooner
  • Builder: Bailey Bros., Toledo, Ohio
  • Year Built: 1870
  • Owner: Captain James Davidson, Buffalo, New York
  • Official Number: 15723
  • Dimensions: Length: 133.1 feet, Beam: 26 feet, Depth: 12.7 feet
  • Tonnage: Gross Tonnage: 269 tons
  • Cargo Capacity: 22,000 bushels
  • Final Location: Shot Point, east of Marquette, Lake Superior
  • Date of Incident: September 7, 1883

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The LAURA BELL was a wooden-hulled Schooner built for the transport of bulk cargoes such as coal and grain. With its capacity of 22,000 bushels, it was well-suited for the bustling trade of the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. The Schooner’s design reflected the era’s priorities: large cargo holds, stability, and durability to handle the often-harsh conditions of the lakes.

HISTORY

The LAURA BELL was launched in 1870 in Toledo, Ohio, under the ownership of Captain James Davidson. Over its 13 years of service, the vessel transported bulk commodities across the Great Lakes, becoming a regular sight in ports such as Buffalo and Marquette.

The Schooner’s career was not without incident. In 1879, it grounded heavily in Waiska Bay, Lake Superior, sustaining significant damage. Following extensive repairs, the vessel was Rebuilt in 1882-1883, restoring it to operational status.

On September 7, 1883, during a voyage carrying coal, the LAURA BELL encountered a violent storm off Shot Point, east of Marquette. The vessel stranded on a boulder and, over several days, sustained irreparable structural damage, eventually breaking its back. Tragically, one crew member lost their life in the disaster.

The surviving crew clung to the rigging for three days, enduring exposure to the elements before being rescued by a Tug sent from Marquette. This dramatic rescue underscored the dangers faced by mariners navigating the unpredictable waters of Lake Superior.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The LAURA BELL was declared a Total Loss after its grounding at Shot Point. Its remains were left astride a large boulder where the Schooner had broken apart, marking the end of its service.

LOCATED BY & DATE

The precise location of the wreck has not been extensively documented, and the remains may no longer be intact due to the high-energy environment of Lake Superior. Historical accounts from the time provide details of the incident near Shot Point.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the wreck of the LAURA BELL.

RESOURCES & LINKS

KEYWORDS

#LauraBell #LauraBelle #LakeSuperiorShipwreck #ShotPoint #Schooner #19thCenturyMaritimeHistory #GreatLakesShipwrecks

CONCLUSION

The story of the LAURA BELL is a poignant chapter in the Maritime History of the Great Lakes. From its construction in 1870 to its tragic loss in 1883, the Schooner exemplified the challenges faced by vessels and crews navigating Lake Superior’s often-unforgiving waters. The dramatic rescue of the surviving crew highlights the bravery and resilience of Great Lakes mariners, while the loss of one life serves as a solemn reminder of the risks inherent in their profession.