IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The vessel associated with this wreck is unidentified but is suspected to be the William P. Rend, a steam screw barge. Steam screw barges were common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, used primarily for freight service across the Great Lakes. These vessels were characterized by their screw propulsion systems and large cargo capacities. The William P. Rend was a significant example of this vessel type, with a length of 287.6 feet, a beam of 40.0 feet, and a depth of 23.6 feet. It was powered by a 900 indicated horsepower engine, making it a powerful vessel for its time.
HISTORY #
The William P. Rend was built in 1888 in West Bay City, Michigan, and served as a steam screw barge primarily in freight service. Originally named the George G. Hadley, the vessel was later renamed the William P. Rend and registered with the U.S. Number 86026. The barge operated out of Chicago, Illinois, and was known for its large cargo capacity, with a gross tonnage of 2,323 tons and a net tonnage of 1,697 tons.
On September 22, 1917, the William P. Rend met its fate in Alpena, Michigan, where it sank and was declared a total loss. Despite the severity of the incident, no lives were lost, and the crew managed to evacuate safely. The wreck’s location has since been marked on various charts, and historical records indicate that it has been noted as a hazard since at least 1974.
The exact circumstances of the sinking remain somewhat unclear, but the wreck’s shallow position—only 4 feet below the surface—makes it a significant hazard to navigation in the area. The wreck was identified and marked on charts labeled “Shl rep 1979” and “Wreck,” with its presence confirmed through surveys conducted over the years.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The wreck lies submerged in Lake Huron at a shallow depth of 4 feet, posing a considerable risk to surface navigation. Despite the vessel’s deterioration over time, certain elements of the wreck are still visible, and its location has been marked on navigational charts. The exact identity of the wreck remains uncertain, though it is likely the William P. Rendbased on historical records and survey data.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck’s location has been documented and updated through various surveys, including a notable investigation conducted under AWOIS item H12132 using a Simrad 3002 multibeam system. The wreck is charted at coordinates Latitude 45°03’44.0″N and Longitude 83°23’35.0″W, with additional data recorded on chart CL1124/95. The position of the wreck has been cross-referenced with nearby landmarks, such as a wreck buoy associated with the William P. Rend, although there are some discrepancies in the exact placement.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
Mariners should consult current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) for advisories related to this wreck. Given its shallow depth and the possibility of portions of the wreck being near or above the water’s surface, it is critical for vessels navigating the area to be aware of its location. The updated survey data is essential for ensuring safe passage in the vicinity of the wreck.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary
- NOAA AWOIS Database: NOAA AWOIS Database
CONCLUSION #
The wreck identified as record number 14561 in Lake Huron is likely that of the William P. Rend, a steam screw barge that sank in 1917 near Alpena, Michigan. The wreck’s shallow depth of just 4 feet below the surface makes it a significant hazard to navigation, particularly in the busy waters of Thunder Bay. The vessel’s location has been updated and verified through modern surveying techniques, ensuring that mariners are aware of this submerged danger. The William P. Rendserves as a poignant reminder of the many shipwrecks that dot the Great Lakes, each with its own story and legacy.
KEYWORDS #
- William P. Rend shipwreck
- Lake Huron barge wreck
- Submerged wreck
- Great Lakes maritime history
- Shipwreck diving site
- Navigation hazard
GPS COORDINATES & ADDITIONAL INFO #
The wreck is located at Latitude 45°03’44.0″N, Longitude 83°23’35.0″W, submerged at a depth of 4 feet in Lake Huron. Mariners and divers should exercise caution when navigating or exploring this area and refer to the latest survey data for safe passage and accurate positioning.
