Christina Nilsson (shipwreck) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Christina Nilsson
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Christina Nilsson before she sank
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 Location in Wisconsin
Location in the United States
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| Location | Lake Michigan off Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin |
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| NRHP reference No. | 03000668 |
| Added to NRHP | July 17, 2003 |
The Christina Nilsson was a large sailing ship called a schooner. It sank in Lake Michigan near Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin. This happened on October 23, 1884. Years later, in 2003, the place where the ship sank was added to a special list. This list is called the National Register of Historic Places. It helps protect important historical sites.
Building the Ship
The Christina Nilsson was built in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. It cost about $23,000 to build. The ship was named after a famous singer, Christina Nilsson.
The Final Voyage
On October 23, 1884, the Christina Nilsson left Escanaba, Michigan. It was heading to Chicago, Illinois. The ship was carrying a heavy load of pig iron.
A big blizzard (a severe snowstorm) hit the area that day. The ship's captain tried to steer the ship to safety. He wanted to reach the port at Baileys Harbor.
The Shipwreck
While trying to get through the storm, the Christina Nilsson hit a hidden reef. A reef is a rocky area under the water. The ship was badly damaged and began to sink. This is called foundering.
Luckily, all the people on board the ship survived. They were able to get to safety.
After the Sinking
Workers were able to get the ship's cargo of pig iron out of the water. However, they could not save the Christina Nilsson itself. Attempts to pull the ship up and fix it were not successful. This process is called salvage.
Since 1997, the shipwreck site has been studied. The Wisconsin Historical Society and the Wisconsin Underwater Archaeology Association have explored the wreck. They learn more about the ship and its history.
