Unidentified 62 Fathoms Wreck

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #


	Name: Unidentified Wreck – 62 Fathoms Wreck Location: Near Oswego, Lake Ontario, New York, USA Coordinates: Not publicly disclosed; identified by NOAA in 2021 Depth: Approximately 62 fathoms (372 feet or 113 meters)

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The “62 Fathoms Wreck” is an unidentified shipwreck discovered by NOAA in 2021 at a depth of approximately 372 feet (113 meters), equivalent to 62 fathoms. Due to its significant depth, the wreck is likely well-preserved, as the cold, oxygen-deprived waters at this depth slow down the deterioration process. However, the wreck’s type, size, and construction details remain unknown, pending further investigation. The depth suggests that the vessel could be of significant age, possibly dating back to the 19th or early 20th century, though this is speculative without more data.

HISTORY #

The 62 Fathoms Wreck is an unidentified shipwreck located near Oswego, New York, in Lake Ontario. Discovered by NOAA during a 2021 survey, the wreck lies at a considerable depth of approximately 62 fathoms (372 feet or 113 meters). Given this significant depth, the wreck is likely well-preserved, with cold, deep-water conditions often helping to protect such sites from extensive decay. However, despite the potential for preservation, little is currently known about the wreck’s type, size, or construction, leaving its identity a mystery.

The 62 Fathoms Wreck could represent a significant find in the study of Great Lakes shipwrecks, possibly belonging to a large vessel given the depth at which it was discovered. The wreck could date back to any number of periods in Lake Ontario’s maritime history, reflecting the diverse types of vessels that have sailed these waters over the centuries. Ships lost in the Great Lakes often succumbed to sudden storms, collisions, or other maritime hazards, and the 62 Fathoms Wreck could be one such vessel, its story waiting to be uncovered. Further exploration and research are needed to reveal more about this wreck’s origins, its historical context, and the circumstances that led to its final resting place at the bottom of Lake Ontario.

Currently, the 62 Fathoms Wreck remains largely unexplored beyond its initial discovery. The depth and location of the wreck make it a challenging site to study, requiring specialized equipment and expertise. However, the mystery surrounding this wreck adds to the rich maritime heritage of Lake Ontario, where countless vessels have met their fate over the centuries. As one of the deeper shipwrecks discovered in the region, the 62 Fathoms Wreck holds the potential to provide valuable insights into the history of navigation and commerce on the Great Lakes, once further exploration is conducted.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

The “62 Fathoms Wreck” lies undisturbed at the bottom of Lake Ontario, awaiting further exploration. Its depth poses challenges for exploration, requiring specialized equipment and expertise to study the wreck in detail. The site represents an intriguing piece of underwater heritage, with the potential to provide new insights into the maritime history of the Great Lakes once more information is uncovered.

RESOURCES & LINKS #

– [NOAA Marine Sanctuaries](https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov) – [Great Lakes Shipwreck Research](https://www.greatlakeships.org) – [David Swayze Shipwreck Database](https://usace.contentdm.oclc.org)