Trivers "Baldwin"

[Tamara Thomsen]

Matt-

FYI- here is the significance and brief history of the S.C. Baldwin.  This is part of an article that I wrote for the current issue of Advanced Diver Magazine:


Built in 1871 as a wooden steam barge with two-masts in Detroit, Michigan, the S.C. Baldwin was reportedly the first double decked steamer on the Lakes. She worked in the iron ore trade until 1902 when she was purchased by the Green Stone and Quarry Company of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. In 1903, her machinery was removed and she continued her service in the stone trade as a tow barge. On September 3, 1908, the S.C. Baldwin sprung a leak off Rawley Point and quickly took on water.  She capsized, then righted herself as she sank in 80 feet of water. Although largely broken, there is still much to see around the wreck site. Her capstan remains, as well as her starboard hogging arch. Cargo hatch combings can be found in the shifting sand.


If you haven't found the huge wooden hogging arch yet, it is quite impressive!  You should look for it next time you visit the wreck.  I can email you more information on ship construction if you are interested in learning.  It will definitely make your diving experience on the Baldwin (or any other flat wreck- for that matter) much more interesting next time that you visit!

Tami