IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

Wreck Name: RECRD 7880 (Vessel Terms Unknown)

Type: Visible Wooden Wreck

Coordinates: Latitude 46.388222, Longitude -84.21925

Depth: Visible above Lowest Water Depth (LWD), uncovering 3 feet (0.9 meters) at LWD.

Condition:

• The wreck is visible above water.

• Inshore East End: In ruins, posing a potential hazard to navigation.

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

This wreck is described as a wooden structure, indicating it was likely a Barge, scow, or small vessel, typical of utility or transportation use on the Great Lakes during the 19th or early 20th century. Such vessels were integral to regional commerce and infrastructure, often used for transporting goods or materials along inland waterways. The visible condition suggests the vessel may have been Abandoned or scuttled deliberately in shallow waters.

HISTORY & DISCOVERY

Initial Report & Documentation

The wreck was first documented through photography in 1984, revealing its visible nature above LWD. The uncovered height of 3 feet at LWD makes it a notable feature for surface navigation in the area. The inshore east end of the wreck was identified as being in ruins, further emphasizing its degraded condition.

Recommendations

Given its Visibility and potential hazard to navigation, hydrographic evaluators have recommended that the wreck be charted on navigational maps. This action is critical to ensuring mariners are aware of its presence and can avoid the area.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The wreck remains at its documented location near the shoreline. It appears to have been Abandoned and left to deteriorate, with no record of salvage or removal efforts. The ruined inshore east end highlights the ongoing degradation of the structure.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

• Advisories for Mariners: Mariners should approach the area with caution, particularly near the inshore east end, which may present submerged hazards.

• Chart Updates: The wreck has been recommended for inclusion in navigational charts to warn of its Visibility and potential hazards.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

• Condition:

• Visible: The main structure is visible, uncovering 3 feet at LWD.

• Ruined: The inshore east end is in ruins, making it particularly hazardous for navigation or exploration.

• Accessibility:

• The shallow depth and visible condition make the wreck accessible for observation or diving. However, the ruined portions may limit safe access.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• NOAA Hydrographic Surveys: Provides updates for charting and navigational warnings.

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Historical references for wooden wrecks in the region.

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: For additional data on shipwrecks and historical wrecks near the Sault Ste. Marie area.

CONCLUSION

The visible wooden wreck identified as RECRD 7880 is a notable hazard in Lake Superior at latitude 46.388222 and longitude -84.21925. Its Visibility above LWD and ruined inshore east end underscore the need for charting to ensure mariner safety. This wreck serves as a historical reminder of the utility vessels that once navigated these waters and the challenges they faced.

KEYWORDS

Visible Wreck, Wooden Wreck, Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Sault Ste. Marie, Navigational Hazard, RECRD 7880, Lake Superior.