Shipwreck Mystery Resolved: Joseph Cochrane Relisted
A historic shipwreck off the coast of Baileys Harbor, Door County, has been officially relisted under its correct name, the Joseph Cochrane, after being misidentified for over two decades. Previously listed as the Christina Nilsson, this 19th-century schooner has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2003. Recent research has clarified its identity, leading to its relisting on January 22, 2026, based on new evidence and historical data.
New Findings Lead to Correct Identification
The Joseph Cochrane, a 131-foot-long schooner, sank in approximately 10 to 15 feet of water, located about 563 feet southwest of the Old Baileys Harbor Lighthouse. Initially identified as the Christina Nilsson, which was a larger vessel at 139 feet, the Cochrane’s true identity was confirmed through a combination of archaeological surveys and historical documentation. Maritime archaeologists from the Wisconsin Historical Society and the Wisconsin Underwater Archaeology Association conducted multiple surveys of the wreck between 1997 and 2021.
Tamara Thomsen, a maritime archaeologist with the Wisconsin Historical Society, highlighted that a crucial piece of evidence came from an insurance claim form related to the Nilsson. The form indicated that the remains of the Nilsson were located in a cove on the northeast side of the lighthouse, while the Cochrane was found on the southwest side. This geographical distinction was pivotal in correcting the shipwreck’s identity.
The relisting not only updates the vessel’s name but also revises its service history and ownership details. However, some information, such as the description of the wreck and the background of the vessel type, remains unchanged. Both the Nilsson and the Cochrane were designed for canal navigation, specifically for the Welland Canal on the St. Lawrence Seaway.
The Story Behind the Joseph Cochrane
Constructed in 1856 by shipbuilder Hosea Rogers in Rochester, New York, the Joseph Cochrane primarily transported grain and lumber across the Great Lakes. Over its operational years, the vessel experienced several incidents, including collisions and sinkings. Its final voyage began on October 23, 1870, when it departed from Cheboygan, Michigan, loaded with lumber.
During a storm, the Cochrane developed a leak, prompting the crew to attempt to reach Baileys Harbor for safety. Unfortunately, Captain Charles Anderson misjudged the navigation channel, leading the ship to run aground on a reef. The crew remained aboard until rescue arrived the following morning. The Cochrane succumbed to the elements shortly after, sinking within a week and losing its cargo of lumber.
Today, the remains of the Cochrane are well-preserved, with significant structural components still intact. The site has been minimally affected by invasive species, allowing for detailed observation by divers and researchers.
The Fate of the Christina Nilsson
In contrast, the Christina Nilsson’s remains are not as well-preserved. Located near the Cochrane, the wreck is fragmented and mixed with other shipwrecks in the cove. While it may not qualify for a historic listing on its own, there is potential for it to be included in a larger archaeological district nomination in the future. The area surrounding Baileys Harbor is recognized as a significant historical site, housing the remains of at least 13 vessels that sought refuge from storms in the early days of Wisconsin’s maritime history.
State and federal laws protect the wreck of the Joseph Cochrane, prohibiting the removal of artifacts or structural elements. For more information on Wisconsin’s shipwrecks and historic sites, visit wisconsinhistory.org and wisconsinshipwrecks.org.
