Shipwreck Report: Unidentified Wreck – Mid Lake 4

Identification & Site Information

• Name: Unidentified Wreck – Mid Lake 4

• Location: Near Main Duck Island, Lake Ontario

• Coordinates: Not publicly disclosed; identified by NOAA

• Depth: Not specified but within the typical range for the area (30–130 feet / 9–40 meters)

Vessel Type Description

The Mid Lake 4 wreck, discovered during NOAA’s 2022 survey of Lake Ontario, is presumed to be a commercial, fishing, or transport vessel. The construction materials, dimensions, and specific type are currently unknown, adding to the intrigue of its discovery. The vessel’s proximity to Main Duck Island, a historically significant and busy maritime area, suggests it may have been a key player in 19th or early 20th-century Great Lakes commerce or transportation.

Discovery and Location

The wreck was identified by NOAA in 2022 during a detailed underwater survey of Lake Ontario. Located near Main Duck Island, the wreck lies in waters historically associated with high maritime activity. These waters were particularly perilous due to changing weather, underwater hazards, and intense shipping traffic, which led to numerous shipwrecks in the region.

Historical Context and Significance

The Mid Lake 4 wreck likely dates to the 19th or early 20th century, a time when Lake Ontario was a critical artery for trade and travel. Main Duck Island’s remote location made it a natural waypoint but also a hazard for vessels navigating the often-unpredictable waters. This wreck may hold historical significance as a relic of the bustling era of wooden and early steel ships that once dominated the Great Lakes.

Its origins remain a mystery—whether it carried goods, passengers, or was a victim of wartime activity. The wreck is part of Lake Ontario’s broader narrative as a hub for commerce, migration, and strategic operations.

The Ongoing Mystery

Despite its identification, many questions remain unanswered:

• What type of vessel was it?

• What caused its sinking?

• When exactly did it meet its fate?

Further archaeological exploration is needed to uncover the story of this wreck. NOAA’s discovery adds to the growing database of underwater cultural heritage in the Great Lakes, highlighting the need for continued research and preservation efforts.

Final Disposition

The wreck lies undisturbed on the lakebed, preserving its historical integrity. Its precise condition remains unreported, awaiting detailed exploration and analysis.

NOTMARs & Advisories

No Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or specific advisories have been issued for this site. Mariners should exercise caution in the area near Main Duck Island, as it has historically been a hazardous zone.

Located By & Date

• Located by: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

• Discovery Date: 2022

Resources & Links

• NOAA Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: thunderbay.noaa.gov

• Great Lakes Shipwreck Research Database: greatlakeships.org

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: maritimehistoryofthegreatlakes.ca

Conclusion

The Mid Lake 4 wreck embodies the mysteries of Lake Ontario’s maritime history, waiting to be fully explored and documented. Its location near Main Duck Island ties it to a rich historical region known for its shipping prominence and navigational challenges. As research continues, this wreck could reveal valuable insights into the lives, industries, and risks of those who sailed the Great Lakes.

Keywords

• Mid Lake 4 wreck

• Lake Ontario shipwreck

• Main Duck Island

• Great Lakes maritime history

• NOAA 2022 discoveries

• Unidentified wreck exploration