Unidentified Mid Lake 4

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #


	Name: Unidentified Wreck – Mid Lake 4 Location: Near Main Duck Island, Lake Ontario Coordinates: Not publicly disclosed, but identified as “Mid Lake 4” by NOAA Depth: Specific depth not provided; typical for shipwrecks in the area, which can range between 30 to 130 feet (9 to 40 meters)

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The “Mid Lake 4” wreck is an unidentified shipwreck discovered in 2022 by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) during a survey of Lake Ontario. The wreck is located near Main Duck Island, a remote and historically significant area in the eastern part of Lake Ontario. The exact type of vessel, including its construction materials, dimensions, and origin, remains unknown as the wreck has yet to be fully explored or documented.

Discovery and Location

The Mid Lake 4 wreck was discovered in 2022 by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) during an extensive survey of Lake Ontario. Located near Main Duck Island, a remote area in the eastern part of the lake, this unidentified shipwreck lies at an unspecified depth within the typical range for shipwrecks in Lake Ontario, which is between 30 to 130 feet (9 to 40 meters). Main Duck Island has a long and storied history as a key location along busy maritime routes, making it a significant site for shipwrecks over the centuries.

Vessel Type and Description

As of now, the exact type, size, and materials of the Mid Lake 4 vessel remain unknown. This lack of information adds to the intrigue surrounding the wreck. Given the strategic location near Main Duck Island, the wreck could potentially be a commercial cargo ship, a fishing vessel, or even a military or transport ship. The ship could have been involved in any number of activities that were common in the region, such as transporting goods, fishing, or participating in military operations during times of conflict. The absence of detailed exploration means that many aspects of this shipwreck are still a mystery, waiting to be uncovered by future expeditions.

Historical Context and Significance

The history of the Mid Lake 4 wreck is as enigmatic as the wreck itself. The waters around Main Duck Island have been a hotspot for maritime activity for centuries, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries when Lake Ontario was a major transportation route. The island’s remote location and challenging waters have led to numerous shipwrecks over the years, many of which remain unidentified. The Mid Lake 4 wreck could be one such vessel, possibly dating back to a time when wooden ships were the norm, and the risks of maritime travel were high. The wreck’s discovery adds to the ongoing narrative of Lake Ontario’s maritime history, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the past.

The Ongoing Mystery

While the Mid Lake 4 wreck has been identified by NOAA, much about it remains a mystery. The lack of specific details about the wreck’s origins, its journey, and the circumstances of its sinking leaves many questions unanswered. Maritime historians and archaeologists are keen to explore this site further, as it could provide valuable insights into the types of vessels that once navigated Lake Ontario and the dangers they faced. Until more exploration and research are conducted, the Mid Lake 4 wreck will continue to be a symbol of the unknown, a reminder of the many stories hidden beneath the waves of the Great Lakes.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

The Mid Lake 4 wreck remains undisturbed on the lakebed, awaiting further exploration. NOAA’s discovery of this site in 2022 highlights the ongoing efforts to map and document underwater sites in Lake Ontario, but detailed exploration of this particular wreck has not yet been reported.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #

No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories have been issued regarding this wreck. However, the area may be noted on nautical charts due to the presence of submerged hazards.

LOCATED BY & DATE #

The wreck was located in 2022 by NOAA during a survey of Lake Ontario. The survey was part of NOAA’s broader efforts to chart the lake and identify submerged cultural resources.