Identification & Site Information:

• Name(s): W. G. Mason
• Registry: United States
• Official Number: 81617
• Vessel Type: Tug
• Year Built: 1898
• Year Sank: 1926
• Hull Material: Wood
• Engines: None documented at the time of the wreck
• Dimensions:
• Length: 84 ft (25.6 m)
• Width: 20 ft (6.1 m)
• Depth: 10 ft (3 m)

Vessel Type

The W. G. Mason was a wooden Tugboat designed for towing and assisting vessels, a crucial role in the commercial shipping operations of the Great Lakes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Description

Built in 1898, the W. G. Mason was an 84 ft wooden Tugboat that operated primarily in Lake Huron. Tugboats like the W. G. Mason were essential for manoeuvring larger vessels in and out of harbours and towing barges through challenging weather and waters.

The vessel sank in 1926 in shallow water near Lake Huron, Michigan. The exact circumstances of the sinking are unclear, but structural failure, severe weather, or an accident during operations could have contributed to its demise.

Final Dispositions

The wreck of the W. G. Mason lies in 12 ft (3.7 m) of water, making it one of the more accessible shipwrecks in the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

• The wreckage is badly broken, but several features remain identifiable:

• Rudder and propeller are still intact.

• The bow is recognizable.

• Pieces of piping and other machinery are scattered throughout the site.

The shallow depth and scattered nature of the wreck make it a popular spot for recreational divers and snorkelers interested in maritime history.

Located By & Date Found

The wreck is well-documented by the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, an area dedicated to preserving significant shipwrecks in Lake Huron. The sanctuary promotes education and conservation while allowing for recreational exploration.

NOTMARs & Advisories

The site’s shallow depth makes it ideal for snorkelers and beginner divers. However, visitors should exercise caution to avoid disturbing the fragile wreckage. Boaters in the area should be mindful of diving activities, as the site is in relatively shallow water.

Resources & Links

• Great Lakes Historical Society: W. G. Mason
• Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: W. G. Mason
• 3DShipwrecks – W.G. Mason

3D Model W.G. Mason

WG Mason by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Keywords, Categories, Glossary

Keywords: W. G. Mason, Lake Huron Shipwrecks, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Wooden Tugboats

Categories: Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime History, Recreational Diving Sites

Glossary: Rudder, Propeller, Tugboat, Shallow Water Wreck, Marine Sanctuary