IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

Wreck Name: RECRD 2352 (Vessel Terms Unknown)

Type: Submerged Barges

Coordinates:

• Initial Report: Latitude 46-27-45.0N, Longitude 84-17-10.0W

• Updated Positions:

• Western Barge (Visible): Latitude 46.462686, Longitude -84.2862 (visible, uncovering 2 feet at LWD)

• Eastern Barge (Submerged): Latitude 46-27-47N, Longitude 84-17-14W

Dimensions:

• Each Barge is approximately 100 feet (30.5 meters) in length.

Depth:

• Visible Barge: Uncovers 2 feet (0.6 meters) at LWD.

• Eastern Barge: Submerged; depth not specified.

Orientation:

• The visible wreck is oriented in a north-south direction.

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The wrecks identified as RECRD 2352 are two barges, likely constructed of wood or steel, reflecting the type of utilitarian vessels commonly used for transporting bulk goods or materials during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These barges served as integral parts of Great Lakes commerce, often towed behind steamships or used in construction projects.

HISTORY & DISCOVERY

Initial Report

The wreck was first noted as a visible structure, scaled at 1:10,000, at latitude 46-27-45.0N, longitude 84-17-10.0W. It was believed to represent a single visible Barge.

Updated Findings

Upon further investigation, hydrographers identified two wrecks in close proximity:

1. A visible Barge located at latitude 46.462686, longitude -84.2862, which uncovers 2 feet at LWD.

2. A second Barge to the east, submerged, positioned at latitude 46-27-47N, longitude 84-17-14W.

Both wrecks were confirmed as barges approximately 100 feet in length. The hydrographer recommended updates to navigational charts to reflect the presence and exact positions of these wrecks.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The wrecks remain in situ, with one Barge visible above LWD and the other submerged but documented. The exact cause of their abandonment is unclear, but their location suggests they may have been lost or deliberately scuttled in the area.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

Mariners navigating in the vicinity of these wrecks should exercise caution, especially near the visible Barge, which uncovers 2 feet at LWD. Updated charts should be consulted to avoid potential Navigation Hazards.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

• Condition: The visible Barge is exposed above LWD, indicating it remains structurally intact enough to be seen. The condition of the submerged Barge is unknown but may be deteriorated due to prolonged submersion.

• Accessibility: Both wrecks are shallow enough to be accessible for diving or surface inspection. The visible wreck, in particular, could provide opportunities for above-water observation.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• NOAA Hydrographic Surveys: For updated navigational charts and survey details.

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: A resource for additional historical context on barges and shipwrecks in the Great Lakes.

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: For research on Barge usage and wrecks in the area.

CONCLUSION

The wrecks identified as RECRD 2352, comprising two barges near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, provide important navigational markers in Lake Superior. The visible Barge, uncovering 2 feet at LWD, poses a direct hazard to surface navigation, while the submerged Barge further underscores the need for updated charts in this area. These wrecks reflect the region’s rich maritime history and the challenges faced by vessels operating in the Great Lakes.

KEYWORDS

Visible Wreck, Submerged Barge, Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Sault Ste. Marie, Lake Superior, Navigational Hazard, RECRD 2352.