After more than a century and a half resting silently beneath Lake Michigan, one of the lake’s most sought-after missing steamers has finally been found.
Illinois shipwreck hunter and diver Paul Ehorn has located the wooden passenger steam propeller SS Lac La Belle, lost in a gale on October 14, 1872. The discovery comes nearly 150 years after the vessel’s tragic sinking.
Built in 1864 at Cleveland, Ohio, the 217-foot Lac La Belle was among the early generation of Great Lakes wooden screw propellers. Originally a passenger and package steamer, she was later converted to bulk cargo service. On her final voyage from Milwaukee to Grand Haven, she carried 53 passengers and crew along with a substantial cargo of barley, flour, pork, and whiskey.
Two hours into the voyage, the vessel began leaking uncontrollably during a worsening gale. Heavy seas extinguished her boiler fires, leaving her powerless. Lifeboats were launched before she sank stern-first in the early morning hours. One lifeboat capsized in heavy seas, resulting in eight fatalities.
For decades, the exact location of the wreck remained unknown. Historical accounts provided only vague clues. In 2022, new archival research significantly narrowed the search grid. Using Klein side-scan sonar, Ehorn and his team identified a promising target. Further investigation confirmed the distinctive hogging arches and structure consistent with the Lac La Belle.
The wreck lies upright in more than 200 feet of water approximately 20 miles off Racine, Wisconsin. Despite the violent storm that claimed her, the hull is remarkably intact. Wooden framing is clearly visible, and portions of her cargo remain in place.
Plans are underway to create a full 3D photogrammetry model to document the wreck’s condition before detailed site information is broadly released.
The discovery represents an important addition to Great Lakes maritime history and highlights the value of careful historical research combined with modern sonar technology.
As always, divers are reminded that Great Lakes shipwrecks are protected cultural resources. Artifact removal without proper permits is illegal. Responsible exploration follows the principle:
Leave only bubbles, take only memories. Be the diver that makes a difference.