SHIPWRECK REPORT – SS MONROVIA

Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Name: SS Monrovia

•Type: Victory-type package freighter

•Year Built: 1943

•Dimensions: Length – 430 feet (131 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 6,700 tons

•Owner: Liberian-flagged, operated by a Greek crew

•Final Location: Bothttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpg of the Great Lakes (specific lake not specified)

•Depth: 43 feet (13 meters) to the highest point of the wreck

Vessel Type Description

The SS Monrovia was a Victory-type freighter, a successor to the Liberty ships, designed for wartime cargo efficiency and versatility. With her large capacity and sturdy build, she was well-suited for carrying diverse cargoes across vast distances, including the Great Lakes. The vessel’s operation under a Liberian flag and Greek crew highlights the globalized nature of mid-20th-century shipping.

History

On June 25, 1959, the SS Monrovia embarked on a voyage destined for Antwerp, departing from Chicago. While navigating the fog-laden waters of the Great Lakes, the ship collided with the freighter SS Royalton. The dense fog severely hampered Visibility, leading to the catastrophic collision that heavily damaged both vessels.

The crew of the SS Monrovia valiantly attempted to control the flooding, but the vessel’s damage was irreparable. Abandoning the ship in lifeboats, the crew watched as the freighter succumbed to the waters and settled upright on the lakebed. Despite the tragic loss of the ship, all crew members survived, underscoring the bravery and preparedness of those aboard.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the SS Monrovia lies upright at a depth of 43 feet, with much of its structure intact. It has become an accessible dive site, offering historical insights and underwater exploration opportunities. The shallow depth allows for clearer Visibility, making it a favored spot for divers and maritime history enthusiasts.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) concerning the wreck of the SS Monrovia. However, divers are urged to respect the site as a historical artifact, and caution is advised due to potential hazards associated with wreck diving.

Located By & Date

The wreck was documented over the years, with its location widely known among divers, particularly through charters based in Alpena, Michigan. The exact discovery date remains unspecified.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck remains largely intact, lying upright on the lakebed. Its accessibility and condition make it a significant site for divers exploring Great Lakes shipwrecks. The relatively shallow depth allows for extended exploration opportunities, attracting divers from across the region.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes

•David Swayze Shipwreck File

•Great Lakes Ships Archive

•NOAA Great Lakes Wrecks Database

•Wikipedia – List of Great Lakes Shipwrecks

Conclusion

The SS Monrovia’s tragic end during the Great Lakes storm of 1959 is a poignant chapter in maritime history. The ship’s collision in the dense fog and subsequent sinking are reminders of the perils of navigation in unpredictable conditions. Today, the SS Monrovia rests as a testament to the resilience of mariners and the historical importance of the Great Lakes shipping industry. It stands as a memorial and an underwater haven for history enthusiasts and divers alike.

Keywords

#SSMonrovia #GreatLakesShipwrecks #VictoryFreighter #MaritimeHistory #GreatLakesDiving #NauticalHistory