An example of a typical Mackinaw design boat. (Photo Credit: Robert McGreevy)
Michigan
Divers, LLC announces the discovery of a previously unknown shipwreck, near the
Grindstone City Harbor. Captain Cindy Lynch, her husband
Captain Mike Lynch and Kevin Jimkoski were scuba diving from shore and
discovered the wreck site. It was initially believed that the wreckage
was from the Tug Margaretta, which exploded outside of the Grindstone Harbor in
1907. On a recent dive, Cindy, Chris Roth, and Kevin further explored the
site and it was determined that the wreckage was not from a tugboat but from a
small, single-masted sailing vessel. After consulting with local
historian and marine artist, Robert McGreevy, it was determined that the
wreckage was likely from a “Mackinaw Boat,” which was common for the area,
around the end of the 19th century. The small sailing vessel
was of “double-end design” and had at least one mast, a drop centerboard, and
a tiller. The wreck site lies within the boundaries of the Thumb Bottom
Land Preserve and can be found in 8 ft of water, approximately 150’ due east of
the end of Grindstone City short point. People exploring the site can
expect to find many small artifacts and several different fish species.
This site should be an excellent local attraction for beginning divers, snorkelers,
and kayakers.
Location of the Mackinaw design wreck site. Located just east (about 200-250ft) off the end of the short point at the Grindstone City marina.
Photogrammetry model of the wreck site.
Divers Cindy Lynch and Kevin Jimkoski pose at the bow of the wreck site.
Remains of the bow. Notice the metal skeg on the keel.
Another view of the bow remains.
Remains of the stern.
Photomosaic of the keel showing the location of the drop centerboard.
The drop centerboard sits on the ribs at the port side near the bow.
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