Remote Sensing Survey at Windermere Point
Armed with a Hummingbird Helix fish finder mounted on an Ocean Kayak, John Harreld has been busy mapping some areas of interest along the Sonoma Coast, this time at Windermere Point, located offshore of Fort Ross State Historic Park. We are using the side scan sonar to map and characterize the nearshore environment while also analyzing the imagery to identify anthropogenic features that may exist on the seafloor. In this particular case, John is using it to identify shipwreck remains from the Windermere. The Bark Windermere, built with two decks, four masts, weighing 1,240 tons, and spanning 224.7 feet long, was launched from Liverpool, England in February 1878. The vessel departed New South Wales (Australia) on July 7, 1883, sailing to San Francisco with a cargo of coal. Two months later, it went ashore just south of Timber Cove. All hands were saved, but the vessel was determined a total loss and subsequently sold to salvors. Local divers have reported elements of the wreck at the point but specific location, size of the debris field, and disposition of the site is unknown. SCHUNRS is taking the extra step to map and identify potential targets before putting divers in the water. This is especially important at this location where there is little protection from adverse ocean conditions. We hope to investigate potential targets soon … all we need is a calm ocean day (or two).
Bark (barque) similar to Windermere
SV Lucipara built in 1885 in Glasgow, England (259 foot long, 4-masted iron bark).