Shipwreck Profile: Starrucca

Identification & Site Information

• Name(s): Starrucca
• Registry: U.S.
• Official Number: 115381
• Vessel Type: Package Freighter
• Year Built: 1875
• Year Sank: 1888
• Hull Material: Wood
• Engines: None (sail-powered auxiliary freighter)
• Dimensions
• Length: 218 ft (66.45 m)
• Width: 35 ft (10.67 m)
• Depth: 14 ft (4.27 m)

Vessel History

The Starrucca was a wooden package freighter built in 1875, designed to transport a combination of goods and general cargo across the Great Lakes. Package freighters were essential during the late 19th century, serving the rapidly industrializing region by moving manufactured goods, raw materials, and perishable items.

The Starrucca sank in 1888 under unclear circumstances in Lake Superior. Like many vessels of the era, it faced challenges navigating the lake’s harsh weather and unpredictable conditions. No engines were onboard, indicating the vessel relied on wind power and auxiliary propulsion methods.

For more detailed historical information:

• Great Lakes Historical Society Record
• Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve
• 3DShipwrecks – Starrucca

Wreck Site Information

• • Lake: Lake Superior
• • State/Province: Michigan
• • Depth: 15 ft (4.57 m)
• • GPS Coordinates: 46° 41.106′ N, 085° 48.510′ W

Site Description:

The wreck of the Starrucca lies in shallow waters within the Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve, though much of it is buried under shifting sands. Notable features visible as of 2022 include:

• Boiler: A remnant of the vessel’s machinery.

• Propeller and Shaft Log: Partial remains of the propulsion system.

• Deadwood: Structural timbers from the Stern area.

• Hull Sides: Fragments visible above the sand.

The wreck consists of two major sections, joined manually in a 3D model to save space. However, a break of approximately 30 ft (9.14 m) separates these sections, and their exact orientation is imprecise.

Diving Notes & Advisories

• Depth Consideration:

At 15 ft (4.57 m), the wreck is accessible to snorkelers and beginner divers, though caution is advised due to shifting sands and currents.

• Visibility:

Visibility can vary, with sand movement influenced by lake conditions and storms.

• Preservation Status:

The site is protected as part of the Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve, and removal of artifacts is strictly prohibited.

Notable Artifacts on Site

• Boiler remnants.

• Parts of the propeller and shaft log.

• Deadwood (Stern timbers).

• Fragments of the Hull sides above the sand.

Keywords:

Starrucca wreck, Lake Superior shipwrecks, Whitefish Point Preserve, package freighters, shallow wreck dives.

3D Model Starrucca