Identification & Site Information

• Wreck Name: Norman
• Type: Steel Propeller Steamer
• Year Built: 1890
• Builder: Cleveland, Ohio
• Owner: Capt. George P. McKay, Cleveland, Ohio
• Dimensions: 30,304 Gross Tonnage
• Valuation: $200,000 (insured for $175,000)
• Final Location: About 7 miles off Middle Island, Lake Huron
• GPS Location  (N45° 18.667 W83° 16.701)
• Depth: Approximately 300 feet (91 meters)
• Date of Wreck: May 30, 1895

Vessel Type Description

The Norman was a steel-hulled Propeller Steamer, a type of vessel designed to carry significant cargo efficiently across the Great Lakes. Built in 1890 in Cleveland, Ohio, the vessel represented the height of industrial-era Great Lakes shipping technology. With a Gross Tonnage of 30,304 tons, the Norman was constructed for durability and heavy use, capable of navigating the challenging conditions of the Great Lakes. Despite its robust design, steel-hulled vessels like the Norman were not immune to collisions and other maritime disasters.

History

The Norman was a valuable asset in Great Lakes commerce, owned by Capt. George P. McKay of Cleveland. On May 30, 1895, the vessel’s career ended tragically in a dense fog while navigating Lake Huron. The Norman collided with the Steamer Jack, another large vessel, about seven miles off Middle Island near Presque Isle. The collision proved catastrophic; the Jack struck the Norman amidships, causing it to sink within two minutes.

Three crew members tragically drowned in the incident:

• Mrs. Reynolds, the wife of the steward from Bay City.
• Nels Gerstene, the watchman.
• Toney, a Deck-hand who had recently joined the crew at Ashtabula.

The remaining crew managed to escape the sinking vessel, aided by the quick flotation of the Jack, which remained afloat thanks to its cargo of lumber.

Details of the Loss

The Norman sank swiftly in approximately 300 feet of water. The dense fog likely played a significant role in the collision, reducing Visibility and increasing the risk of such incidents. The Jack sustained damage but managed to stay afloat and avoid further disaster. The Norman was declared a Total Loss and became one of several notable wrecks during the 1895 navigation season.

Recovery Efforts

In August 1896, the wreck of the Norman was located using a diving bell operation. By 1897, plans were underway to recover the vessel using advanced diving equipment, including a diving box. Despite these efforts, full recovery of the vessel was never completed, and the Norman remains submerged near Middle Island.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically tied to the wreck of the Norman. The area around Middle Island and Presque Isle is known for its shipwrecks and challenging navigation conditions, especially in poor Visibility. Divers exploring wrecks in the region should be prepared for deep water and strong currents.

Located By & Date

The wreck of the Norman was officially located in August 1896 using a diving bell. Its position, near Middle Island, has been documented as part of Lake Huron’s maritime history.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The Norman lies at a depth of approximately 300 feet, which places it in the range of technical diving. The steel construction of the vessel means that some structural elements may still be intact, but the significant depth and strong currents make exploration challenging. The site holds historical significance and serves as a testament to the dangers faced by Great Lakes mariners.

Resources & Links

• Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: NOAA Thunder Bay Sanctuary – Provides details on wrecks in the region, including Lake Huron disasters.
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Maritime History of the Great Lakes – Offers records on significant shipwrecks like the Norman.
• Historical Newspapers Archive: Articles documenting the 1895 wreck and recovery efforts.
• Great Lakes Ships – Photos and Information on the Norman
• Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum: Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum – Contains insights into notable Great Lakes shipwrecks.
• Wikipedia – More Infomation with above Photo
• Thunderbay Wrecks – https://www.thunderbaywrecks.com/wrecks/norman/

Conclusion

The sinking of the Norman after its collision with the Jack highlights the challenges of navigating Lake Huron during the late 19th century. Dense fog, busy shipping lanes, and limited technology combined to create a perilous environment for vessels. The swift sinking and tragic loss of life serve as a somber reminder of the risks faced by mariners. Today, the wreck of the Norman rests deep beneath Lake Huron, a symbol of the resilience and perils of Great Lakes shipping.

Keywords

#GreatLakes #Shipwrecks #LakeHuron #NormanSteamer #MaritimeHistory #MiddleIsland #PresqueIsle #FogCollision #19thCenturyShipping #SteelPropeller #GreatLakesDisaster

3D Model

Norman by Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary on Sketchfab