America (shipwreck) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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America (Shipwreck)
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| Location | Lake Michigan, off the coast of Carlton, Wisconsin |
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| NRHP reference No. | 13000467 |
| Added to NRHP | July 3, 2013 |
The America was a wooden schooner, which is a type of sailing ship. Its shipwreck site is located off the coast of Carlton, Wisconsin in Lake Michigan. It is a famous underwater historical site.
Contents
About the Schooner America
The sailing ship America was built in Port Huron, Michigan in 1873. It was a sturdy wooden vessel. The America mainly sailed in the southern parts of Lake Michigan.
What the America Carried
The ship's main job was to transport goods. It often carried large amounts of lumber. The America also transported ice, which was important before refrigerators were common.
The Sinking of the America
On September 28, 1880, the America was on a journey. It was sailing from Chicago, Illinois to Escanaba, Michigan. The ship was planning to pick up a load of iron ore there. This ore was meant to go to Michigan City, Indiana.
The Accident
During the night, something unexpected happened. The America hit a strong rope, called a scow line, from another ship. This collision caused serious damage to the front of the America. The ship began to sink very quickly.
After the Sinking
The crew tried to save the ship. However, their efforts were not successful. About a week later, the shipwreck was left where it sank. The America remained hidden underwater for many years.
Discovery of the Wreck
The shipwreck of the America was finally found in 1977. Today, parts of the ship are on display. The ship's steering wheel can be seen at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Its anchor is at the Rogers Street Fishing Village in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. These pieces help us remember the ship's story.
