SHIPWRECK REPORT: SS MONROVIA

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Vessel Name: SS Monrovia

• Other Names: None

• Vessel Type: “Victory” Type Package Freighter

• Official Number: Not Available

• Year Built: 1943

• Builder: Not Specified

• Dimensions:

• Length: 430 feet (131 meters)

• Gross Tonnage: 6,700 tons

• Owner: Liberian-flagged, manned by a Greek crew

• Final Location: Bottom of Lake Huron, Alpena, Michigan

• Depth: 43 feet (13 meters) to the highest point of the wreck

• Coordinates: Not provided

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The SS Monrovia was a “Victory” type package freighter built during World War II. These vessels were faster and larger than Liberty ships, designed for efficient transportation of diverse cargo. The SS Monrovia’s design and size made it ideal for transoceanic and Great Lakes voyages, reflecting the global shipping demands of the mid-20th century.

HISTORY

Service Life:

The SS Monrovia was a workhorse of Great Lakes shipping, frequently carrying freight across the region’s vast waterways. By 1959, the vessel was engaged in international trade, bound for Antwerp with a stop in Chicago.

Final Voyage (June 25, 1959):

• Route: Departed from Chicago, bound for Antwerp.

• Conditions: Dense fog, a notorious hazard on the Great Lakes, reduced Visibility.

• Collision:

• The SS Monrovia collided with the freighter SS Royalton near Alpena, Michigan.

• The impact caused catastrophic damage to both vessels.

Sinking:

• The collision caused irreparable damage to the SS Monrovia’s Hull.

• Water flooded the Hull, forcing the crew to abandon ship.

• The Monrovia sank upright to the lakebed.

Casualties: No reported loss of life; the crew escaped in lifeboats.

FINAL DISPOSITION

• Condition:

• The wreck lies upright on the bottom of Lake Huron.

• The vessel remains mostly intact, offering divers a clear view of its structure.

• Depth:

• The highest point of the wreck lies at 43 feet (13 meters), making it accessible to recreational divers.

DIVE SITE DETAILS

Access:

• Dive charters are available from Alpena, Michigan, offering convenient access to the site.

Visibility:

• Conditions in Lake Huron are generally favorable, with moderate to good Visibility depending on weather and sediment levels.

Hazards:

• Divers should approach with caution due to the potential presence of loose debris and sharp edges on the wreck.

• A dive flag is recommended due to occasional boat traffic in the area.

Points of Interest:

• Intact Hull and superstructure.

• Evidence of the collision, including Hull damage.

• Artifacts from the ship’s final voyage may still be present.

SIGNIFICANCE

The SS Monrovia’s story highlights the challenges of navigating the Great Lakes, particularly in foggy conditions. The vessel’s loss underscores the importance of navigation safety and serves as a testament to the resilience of Great Lakes sailors. The wreck offers divers a chance to explore a well-preserved piece of maritime history.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

• Notices to Mariners: No specific advisories for the site, but standard precautions for diving near shipping lanes apply.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• David Swayze Shipwreck File

• Great Lakes Ships

• NOAA’s Great Lakes Wrecks Database

• Historical Newspapers Archive – Collision Reports

CONCLUSION

The wreck of the SS Monrovia is a poignant reminder of the perils faced by vessels on the Great Lakes. Its sinking in dense fog during a routine voyage highlights the unpredictable dangers of these inland seas. Today, the site provides divers with a fascinating glimpse into maritime history, offering an intact wreck in relatively shallow water.

KEYWORDS

#GreatLakes #SSMonrovia #Shipwreck #LakeHuron #Diving #MaritimeHistory #VictoryFreighter #AlpenaMichigan #Shipwrecks