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Hidden Shipwrecks Of The Great Lakes

Published:

by Wendy Braden

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Have you ever wondered about the secrets lying beneath the surface of the Great Lakes? These vast bodies of water hold more than just fish and waves. Beneath them, countless hidden shipwrecks tell stories of adventure, tragedy, and history. From cargo ships lost in storms to passenger vessels that met untimely ends, each wreck has a unique tale. Exploring these underwater relics offers a glimpse into the past, revealing how people once traveled, traded, and lived. Whether you're a history buff, a diving enthusiast, or just curious, the Great Lakes shipwrecks provide a fascinating underwater world waiting to be discovered.

The Allure of Great Lakes Shipwrecks

The Great Lakes, a series of interconnected freshwater lakes, hold a treasure trove of maritime history. Beneath their serene surfaces lie countless shipwrecks, each with a story to tell. These underwater relics attract divers, historians, and adventure seekers alike. Let's dive into some of the most fascinating hidden shipwrecks of the Great Lakes.

Lake Superior's Hidden Gems

Lake Superior, the largest and deepest of the Great Lakes, is home to numerous shipwrecks. Its cold, clear waters preserve these underwater time capsules remarkably well.

  1. SS Edmund Fitzgerald
    Perhaps the most famous shipwreck in the Great Lakes, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald sank during a storm in 1975. The wreck lies in two pieces at the bottom of Lake Superior, about 530 feet deep. Its tragic story has inspired songs, books, and documentaries.

  2. SS Kamloops
    This Canadian freighter sank in 1927 during a fierce storm. The wreck was discovered in 1977, resting at a depth of 270 feet. Divers often visit the site to see the well-preserved artifacts and the eerie remains of the ship.

  3. SS America
    The SS America, a passenger steamer, met its fate in 1928. It lies in shallow waters near Isle Royale, making it accessible to divers of all skill levels. The wreck is remarkably intact, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century travel.

Lake Michigan's Underwater Treasures

Lake Michigan, known for its unpredictable weather, has claimed many ships over the years. Its shipwrecks are a testament to the lake's treacherous nature.

  1. SS Wisconsin
    This steel-hulled ferry sank in 1929 during a violent storm. The wreck lies in 130 feet of water near Kenosha, Wisconsin. Divers can explore the well-preserved remains, including the ship's cargo of automobiles.

  2. Rouse Simmons
    Known as the "Christmas Tree Ship," the Rouse Simmons sank in 1912 while carrying a load of Christmas trees. The wreck lies in 165 feet of water off the coast of Two Rivers, Wisconsin. Its story has become a beloved part of local folklore.

  3. SS Francisco Morazan
    This freighter ran aground on South Manitou Island in 1960. The wreck is partially submerged and easily accessible to divers and snorkelers. Its rusting hull and scattered cargo create a hauntingly beautiful underwater scene.

Lake Huron's Maritime Mysteries

Lake Huron, with its rocky shores and unpredictable weather, has a rich history of shipwrecks. Many of these wrecks remain hidden, waiting to be discovered.

  1. SS Regina
    The SS Regina, a Canadian freighter, sank in 1913 during the Great Storm. The wreck lies in 80 feet of water near Port Sanilac, Michigan. Divers can explore the well-preserved hull and cargo, including barrels of whiskey.

  2. SS Daniel J. Morrell
    This freighter broke in two during a storm in 1966. The wreck lies in two pieces at a depth of 200 feet. The stern section is particularly well-preserved, offering a fascinating dive experience.

  3. SS Nordmeer
    The SS Nordmeer ran aground in 1966 and eventually sank. The wreck lies in shallow water near Thunder Bay, Michigan. Its accessible location makes it a popular spot for divers and snorkelers.

Lake Erie’s Submerged Secrets

Lake Erie, the shallowest of the Great Lakes, has a reputation for being particularly dangerous. Its shipwrecks are often well-preserved due to the lake's cold waters.

  1. SS G.P. Griffith
    This passenger steamer caught fire and sank in 1850, resulting in one of the deadliest maritime disasters on the Great Lakes. The wreck lies in 50 feet of water near Cleveland, Ohio. Divers can explore the remains of the ship and its cargo.

  2. SS Anthony Wayne
    The SS Anthony Wayne, a sidewheel steamer, exploded and sank in 1850. The wreck lies in 50 feet of water near Vermilion, Ohio. Its well-preserved remains offer a fascinating glimpse into mid-19th-century shipbuilding.

  3. SS Benson Ford
    This freighter was intentionally sunk in 1999 to create an artificial reef. The wreck lies in 70 feet of water near South Bass Island, Ohio. Divers can explore the ship's intact superstructure and cargo holds.

Lake Ontario’s Sunken Stories

Lake Ontario, the smallest and easternmost of the Great Lakes, has its share of shipwrecks. These underwater sites offer a unique glimpse into the region's maritime history.

  1. SS Roy A. Jodrey
    This freighter sank in 1974 after striking a shoal. The wreck lies in 150 feet of water near Alexandria Bay, New York. Divers can explore the well-preserved hull and cargo.

  2. SS Keystorm
    The SS Keystorm, a steel freighter, sank in 1912 after hitting a shoal. The wreck lies in 115 feet of water near Alexandria Bay, New York. Its intact hull and scattered cargo make it a popular dive site.

  3. SS George A. Marsh
    This schooner sank in 1917 during a storm. The wreck lies in 80 feet of water near Kingston, Ontario. Divers can explore the well-preserved remains of the ship and its cargo of coal.

The Allure of Great Lakes Shipwrecks

Great Lakes shipwrecks offer a unique glimpse into history. These underwater treasures tell stories of adventure, tragedy, and resilience. Exploring these sites, whether through diving or museum visits, connects us to the past in a tangible way. Each wreck has its own tale, from the Edmund Fitzgerald to the SS Kamloops. They remind us of the power and unpredictability of nature.

For history buffs, divers, or anyone curious about maritime lore, the Great Lakes are a treasure trove. The preservation efforts ensure these stories aren't lost to time. Visiting these sites can be both educational and awe-inspiring.

Next time you're near the Great Lakes, consider exploring these hidden gems. They offer more than just a dive; they offer a journey through time. Dive in, and let the stories of the deep captivate you.