The Schooner Pathfinder

On November 17, 1886, the Pathfinder, laden with 1,200 tons of iron ore, was in tow of the steam barge Jim Sheriffs when they were caught in a severe gale and snowstorm north of what is now Rawley Point. By 10 PM, the Pathfinder became ice-bound and broke her towline. Despite valiant efforts by the Jim Sheriffs' captain, the rough seas prevented rescue, and the Pathfinder ran aground in a bed of quicksand around 4 AM. Fortunately, all crew members were safely transferred to the Jim Sheriffs at daylight, and no lives were lost.

Within days, the Pathfinder began to break apart due to her heavy cargo and the relentless surf. She was declared a total loss less than a week later. At the time, her valuation was $15,000, and she was insured for $13,000, not including her valuable iron ore cargo, which brought the total estimated loss to over $26,000. Her enrollment was officially surrendered on June 30, 1887, at the Port of Milwaukee.

Today, the Pathfinder rests in 15 feet of water, still in her bed of quicksand. Her location was reported by Suzze Johnson in 2013 while flying a powered parachute. Measuring just under 200 feet, the Pathfinder is an excellent site for divers, kayakers, and snorkelers to explore. Although her hull is split and twisted, much of her lower hull and the original iron ore cargo remain intact. While some of her upper deck works, rigging, and anchors were salvaged after the grounding, significant structural components, such as her centerboard trunk and keelson structure, continue to be points of interest for visitors.

This shipwreck offers a unique glimpse into our maritime history and is a truly remarkable site for local exploration.