Wreck Report: SS Regina

Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: SS Regina
• Type: Steel Freighter
• Built: 1907
• Length: 250 feet (76.2 meters)
• Beam: 41 feet (12.5 meters)
• Depth: Approximately 80 feet (24.4 meters) at the wreck site
• Cargo: Sewer pipes
• Date of Loss: November 9, 1913
• Location: Between Lexington and Port Sanilac, Michigan, Lake Huron
• GPS Coordinates 43° 20.454’N  82° 26.895’W
• Final Disposition: Capsized and sank during the Great Storm of 1913.

Vessel Type Description

The SS Regina was a steel freighter built in 1907, designed for transporting bulk cargo. The ship was a modern vessel for its time, but like many freighters, it was top-heavy when carrying dense cargo such as sewer pipes. This design feature, combined with the powerful storms of the Great Lakes, contributed to its vulnerability during extreme weather conditions.

History

The SS Regina embarked on what would be its final voyage on November 9, 1913, heading north on Lake Huron. That evening, the Great Storm of 1913—one of the deadliest and most destructive storms in the history of the region—swept across the area. With waves towering up to 38 feet (11.6 meters) and gale-force winds, the conditions were beyond anything the Regina could endure.

Realizing the severity of the storm, the crew anchored the vessel approximately 7 miles east of Lexington, Michigan, and shut down all power in an attempt to ride out the storm. Tragically, the ship capsized and sank, claiming the lives of all on board. In the aftermath, the wreckage began to surface. Near Port Franks, Ontario, lifeboats and debris from the Regina washed ashore, along with several bodies. Initially, confusion surrounded the circumstances of the sinking, with theories of a collision with the Charles S. Price, another ship lost in the storm. However, divers later confirmed no evidence of a collision.

Final Disposition

The SS Regina was discovered in 1986 by a team of divers—Wayne Brusate, Garry Biniecki, and John Severance—lying upside down at the bottom of Lake Huron, about 77–80 feet (23–24 meters) deep. The wreck is largely intact, though inverted. Artifacts recovered in a 1987 expedition, including bottles of Scotch and Champagne, provide a glimpse into life aboard the freighter and its final journey.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no specific current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) regarding the wreck of the SS Regina, but divers exploring the site should be cautious of the structure’s condition and adhere to proper safety protocols due to its depth and inverted position.

Located By & Date

The wreck of the SS Regina was discovered in 1986, resting between Lexington and Port Sanilac, Michigan. The location was confirmed during subsequent surveys and archaeological explorations.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the SS Regina is well-preserved and lies at a diveable depth of 80 feet (24 meters), making it accessible to experienced divers. The upside-down position adds a unique challenge for navigation. The intact structure offers a fascinating view into early 20th-century Great Lakes freighter design. However, the wreck’s status as a historical site requires divers to exercise caution and respect the site.

Resources & Links

• David Swayze Shipwreck File
• Great Lakes Ships Database
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Bowling Green State University – Historical Vessels Index
• YouTube: Search for videos showcasing dive expeditions to the wreck of the SS Regina.
• 3DShipwrecks – Regina
• Inland Seas Article of the Locating of the Regina
• Wikipedia – SS Regina Lexington MI Port Sanilac SS Charles S Price

9. Additional Notes

The sinking of the SS Regina is part of the tragic legacy of the Great Storm of 1913, which claimed 12 ships and over 250 lives. The discovery of the wreck provided closure to some unanswered questions about the ship’s final moments and offered a tangible connection to a historic maritime disaster.

Tags

#SS Regina #Great Storm of 1913 #Lake Huron Shipwreck #Great Lakes Freighter #Historical Shipwrecks #Diving Sites #Georgian Bay

Conclusion

The loss of the SS Regina during the Great Storm of 1913 epitomizes the challenges faced by mariners in navigating these inland seas. The discovery and exploration of the wreck offer both historical insight and a solemn tribute to those who perished in one of the region’s most catastrophic storms. The SS Regina continues to serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Great Lakes’ maritime history.

3D Model – Regina

Regina by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab