SHIPWRECK REPORT: AMERICA

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Wreck Name: America
• Type: Passenger and Package Delivery Ship
• Year Built: 1898
• Builder: Detroit Dry Dock Company, Wyandotte, Michigan
• •Specifications:
• •Length: 165 feet (50.3 meters)
• •Beam: 31 feet (9.4 meters)
• •Depth: 11 feet (3.4 meters)
• •Gross Tonnage: Not specified
• •Power: Triple expansion steam engine, 700 horsepower, two Scotch boilers
• •Location: Washington Harbor, Isle Royale, Lake Superior
• •Date of Wreck: June 7, 1928
• •Coordinates: 47.895006106383924, -89.22421960255312
• •Depth at Wreck Site: Approximately 200 feet (61 meters)

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The America was a hybrid vessel, blending a steel Hull with a wooden superstructure, designed for passenger and package delivery. Its advanced propulsion system, featuring a triple expansion steam engine, allowed it to operate efficiently on Great Lakes routes. The ship’s dual purpose—transporting passengers and goods—highlighted its importance as a regional connector, particularly in remote areas.

HISTORY

Construction and Early Operations

Built in 1898 by the Detroit Dry Dock Company, the America initially served a Lake Michigan route between Chicago and Michigan City, Indiana. The ship’s steel Hull and powerful steam engine made it a reliable vessel for navigating the Great Lakes.

Lake Superior Operations

In 1902, the Booth Steamship Company purchased the vessel and reassigned it to Lake Superior. For over two decades, it was a vital lifeline for communities around Isle Royale, Thunder Bay, and Duluth. Its operations included transporting supplies, fish, mail, and passengers, becoming an essential component of the region’s infrastructure.

Challenges

The America endured numerous challenges over its career, including collisions, groundings, and encounters with ice floes. Despite these mishaps, it maintained service under different ownerships, including the Booth Fisheries Company and later the United States & Dominion Transportation Company.

THE FINAL VOYAGE

On June 6, 1928, the America departed Duluth on its regular route, stopping briefly in Isle Royale’s Washington Harbor to drop off passengers. Early the next morning, as it left the harbor, the ship struck a submerged reef. It drifted and ran aground on another reef, ultimately settling on the lakebed. All 16 passengers and 31 crew members were safely evacuated using lifeboats.

Efforts to salvage the vessel were hindered by delays and financial issues. The ship remained stranded, with its forward Deck and wheelhouse partially above water until it fully sank into Washington Harbor.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The America was declared a Total Loss after grounding on a reef near Isle Royale. Despite initial salvage attempts, the wreck was never recovered. The ship lies in Washington Harbor at a depth of 200 feet, offering a haunting reminder of its long and storied service.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories specifically relate to the America wreck site. Divers should be aware of the depth and potential hazards associated with the wreck’s location.

LOCATED BY & DATE

The wreck of the America was explored by divers in 1970, but the expedition tragically resulted in the loss of a diver’s life. The site is accessible for advanced divers due to its depth and condition. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984 due to its historical significance.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

The wreck lies in Washington Harbor, with portions of the ship relatively intact despite its age. The site is popular among divers, offering a rare glimpse of a historic vessel. However, the depth of 200 feet (61 meters) requires advanced diving experience and appropriate equipment.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• Great Lakes Ships
• David Swayze Shipwreck File
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Wikipedia contributors. (2024, October 19). SS America (1898). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 11:04, January 25, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=SS_America_(1898)&oldid=1251956351

Keywords #America #Lake Superior Shipwreck #Isle Royale #Passenger Ship #Great Lakes History #Maritime Heritage

CONCLUSION

The America exemplifies the critical role of vessels in connecting remote Great Lakes communities. From its construction in 1898 to its final voyage in 1928, the ship’s history is marked by resilience, innovation, and service. The wreck of the America, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, continues to be a symbol of the rich maritime legacy of Lake Superior and the Great Lakes as a whole.