SHIPWRECK REPORT: MIDDLE CHANNEL WRECK

Type: Unknown (Potentially a Barge or small vessel)

Location: Middle Channel, Dickinson Island side, south of the no-wake zone, Lake St. Clair

Depth: 25 feet (7.6 meters)

• Least Depth: 5 feet (1.5 meters)

SITE DESCRIPTION

• Orientation:

• Bow is pointing up-current.

• Wreck is listing 45 degrees to starboard.

• Structural Condition:

• The Deck has sheared off from the Hull, particularly at the bow.

• The Deck has slid a few feet to starboard, creating a “scissor” effect visible on sonar.

• Features:

• Machinery and hardware are visible on the wreck.

• The wreck is 20 feet tall at its highest point.

ACCESS INFORMATION

• Depth & Visibility:

• Depth of 25 feet makes this site accessible to snorkelers and recreational divers.

• In clear water, the wreck may be visible from a boat.

• Look for ripples in the water, which can sometimes indicate the presence of the wreck.

• Anchoring:

• A small clearing in nearby weeds can be used to anchor a small boat.

• This site is suitable for a shore dive if proper anchoring is established.

DIVE NOTES

• Navigation: The wreck’s location near the drop-off of the Middle Channel adds complexity; currents may be present.

• Points of Interest:

• The “scissor” effect of the Deck and Hull.

• Machinery and hardware scattered on the wreck.

• Safety Considerations:

• Avoid disturbing the structure, particularly the starboard side where the Deck has shifted.

• Be cautious of potential currents in the Middle Channel.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The identity of this wreck remains unknown, but its size and features suggest it was a working vessel, possibly a Barge or smaller ship used in the Lake St. Clair region. Its listing and shifted Deck hint at a violent or sudden sinking event, though further exploration is required to uncover its story.

NOTES FOR EXPLORATION

• Recommended Equipment:

• Sonar or depth finder for precise location.

• Dive lights for detailed examination of machinery and hardware.

• Best Time to Dive: Clear and calm weather conditions to maximize Visibility in the shallow water.

REFERENCES & LINKS

• Local historical shipwreck registries and diving reports

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

This wreck presents a fascinating dive opportunity for those exploring the Middle Channel and offers a chance to uncover more about its identity and history.