Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Name: Unknown (Unidentified Wooden Hull Steamer)

•Vessel Type: Wooden Hull Steamer

•Coordinates: Latitude 45°00’55.07”N, Longitude 83°18’13”W

•Location: Lake Huron

•Depth: 9.8 meters (32 feet) below the surface

•Feature Type: Submerged hazard, dangerous to surface navigation

•Survey Data: Position and condition confirmed via Multibeam Sonar Systems (MBES) and Sidescan Sonar (SSS) coverage

Vessel Type Description

This wreck is identified as a wooden-hulled Steamer, estimated to be approximately 200 feet (61 meters) in length with a metal-sheathed bow. These vessels were predominant during the 19th and early 20th centuries, serving as reliable transports for goods and passengers across the Great Lakes. The construction, featuring wood with reinforced metal elements, reflects the transitional shipbuilding techniques of its era. The wreck retains structural features like a propeller, a boiler, and lifeboats, indicating its role as a working freight vessel.

History

The wooden Steamer carried carbide, a compound essential for producing acetylene gas, suggesting its involvement in industrial shipping. Historical records indicate that the vessel experienced a catastrophic fire, burning down to the waterline. Despite this severe damage, key structural elements, such as the propeller, boiler, and portions of the superstructure, remain intact on the lakebed. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but the presence of carbide as cargo might have exacerbated the intensity of the blaze.

The circumstances surrounding the Steamer’s identity, origin, and final voyage remain speculative, as no definitive historical records have linked the wreck to a named vessel. Its discovery adds to the broader narrative of industrial and commercial shipping on the Great Lakes, where many vessels met untimely ends.

Final Disposition

The wreck lies in a shallow area of Lake Huron, submerged at a depth of 9.8 meters (32 feet). While the Hull has deteriorated over time, significant features remain visible, including the propeller, boiler, and portions of lifeboats. The fire damage is evident, with much of the vessel burned down to the waterline. Despite its deterioration, the wreck is relatively intact and accessible for exploration, making it an intriguing site for divers and historians alike.

Located By & Date

•Located By: Multiple surveys, including CL574/82

•Date: Confirmed during recent surveys using advanced sonar technologies (MBES and SSS)

•Position: High-quality data confirms its precise location at Latitude 45°00’55.07”N, Longitude 83°18’13”W

NOTMARs & Advisories

Mariners are advised to consult the latest Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) for information regarding this wreck. Due to its shallow depth and partially intact structure, the site poses a hazard to navigation. Divers and researchers should exercise caution, as remnants of the vessel and the surrounding area could present risks.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database: Explore historical shipwreck records

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Comprehensive documentation of Great Lakes shipwrecks

•Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: A resource for maritime heritage and underwater exploration

•NOAA AWOIS Database: Database for hazards to navigation

Conclusion

The unidentified wooden Hull Steamer in Lake Huron remains an enigmatic yet significant site, reflecting the industrial and Maritime History of the Great Lakes. Its cargo of carbide and evidence of a catastrophic fire suggest it was actively engaged in freight transport at the time of its sinking. While its exact identity remains unknown, the wreck provides valuable opportunities for historical research and underwater exploration. Proper safety measures should be observed due to its shallow depth and structural hazards.

Keywords

•Unidentified shipwreck

•Wooden Hull Steamer

•Lake Huron wreck

•Submerged navigation hazard

•Great Lakes maritime history

•Advanced sonar discovery

GPS Coordinates & Additional Info

•Location: Latitude 45°00’55.07”N, Longitude 83°18’13”W

•Depth: 9.8 meters (32 feet)

•Advisories: Mariners and divers should check the latest navigation charts and advisories to ensure safe passage and exploration in the area.