Site Description
- Schooner
- 90m 180ft Lengths
- 21ffw 7m Depths
- Detour Shoal, Lake Huron
- 45º 57.582’ North
83º 54.333’ West
History
In the annals of maritime history, the fateful sinking of the schooner barge GEORGE H. ELY remains a poignant reminder of the perils faced by vessels navigating the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes. Built in 1871 at Leighton and Fitzgerald Shipyard in Port Huron, MI, the GEORGE H. ELY was a robust bulk freight carrier, serving as a crucial link in transporting iron ore, coal, and grain across the vast waters of Lake Superior.
On a gloomy day in October 1882, fate dealt a cruel blow to the GEORGE H. ELY during what was meant to be a routine voyage. Towed by the Steamer H. B. TUTTLE, the ELY was en route to Portage, MI, laden with a valuable cargo of coal. The steamer, however, strayed a little too far to the west side of the treacherous Detour Passage, leading to an unfortunate grounding on Detour Shoal, south of Detour, MI.
The powerful waves relentlessly pounded the helpless schooner barge, leaving it stranded broadside on the unforgiving reef. Despite numerous valiant attempts at salvage, the ELY’s fate was sealed as it suffered irreparable damage. Ultimately, on November 2, 1882, the vessel was declared a total loss, leaving a profound mark on the history of Great Lakes shipping.
Today, the remnants of the GEORGE H. ELY lie in 15 to 20 feet of water, scattered over a large area in a small bay, just north of Detour Shoal on the west side of Detour Passage. The once-majestic hull has been torn apart, salvaged for its precious cargo of coal. The wreck serves as a haunting reminder of the dangers faced by sailors, and only a portion of the vessel remains.
Divers who venture to explore the GEORGE H. ELY’s resting place will discover the haunting remains of one side of the hull, a bow section, a stern section, and various small pieces of debris. The sorrowful sight offers a glimpse into the tragic end of a once-proud schooner barge.
As we delve into the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes, the GEORGE H. ELY stands as a testament to the bravery and determination of those who navigated the tumultuous waters, facing the wrath of nature in their quest to transport vital goods across the vast expanse of these majestic lakes. With every dive into these depths, we honor the memory of the sailors and vessels lost to the unforgiving waters, preserving their stories for generations to come.
