IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Grecian was a steel-hulled freighter, a type of cargo ship that played a crucial role in transporting goods across the Great Lakes. Built in 1891, the vessel was designed for durability and efficiency, featuring a substantial gross tonnage of 2,348 tons. Measuring 296 feet in length, the Grecian was a sizable vessel equipped to handle the demanding conditions of the Great Lakes and the heavy loads typical of industrial shipping at the time.
HISTORY #
The Grecian was launched in 1891 and served the Great Lakes for 15 years before meeting its tragic end. On June 15, 1906, the Grecian foundered and sank in Lake Huron. The specific circumstances leading to the sinking remain unclear, but the vessel was likely overcome by the challenges of navigating the often treacherous waters of the lake.
Over the years, the Grecian has remained relatively intact on the lakebed, becoming a popular site for deep-sea divers. The wreck, located at a depth of 65 feet, offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century maritime engineering, with remnants of the vessel’s pilot house, masts, and control systems still recognizable. However, some parts of the ship, such as the stack, have been lost to time. The engine room pipes and the bow landing boom now lie at a depth of approximately 105 feet, where the ship settled after sinking. Notably, three anchors remain aboard the vessel, adding to its allure as a dive site.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The Grecian lies submerged in Lake Huron at a depth of 65 feet, resting on the lakebed at around 105 feet of water. Despite the loss of some components, the wreck is in relatively good condition, providing a unique opportunity for divers to explore a well-preserved example of a steel-hulled freighter from the late 19th century. The wreck poses a danger to surface navigation due to its location and depth, making it essential for mariners to be aware of its presence.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck of the Grecian was identified and surveyed at coordinates Latitude 44°58’06.2″N and Longitude 83°12’W. Its position has been well-documented, particularly due to its popularity as a dive site. Further surveys and verifications are necessary to maintain up-to-date information on the wreck’s condition and to ensure that mariners are adequately warned of its location.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
Mariners navigating near the Grecian‘s wreck site should consult current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) for any advisories related to the wreck. Given its depth and the fact that it poses a hazard to surface navigation, it is crucial for vessels in the area to exercise caution. The wreck’s coordinates should be clearly marked on nautical charts to prevent accidental collisions.
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
CONCLUSION #
The wreck of the Grecian is a significant site in Lake Huron, both as a historical artifact and as a popular location for deep-sea diving. Its relatively intact condition allows for detailed exploration, offering insights into the design and construction of early steel-hulled freighters. However, its presence also poses a navigational hazard, emphasizing the importance of accurate charting and mariner awareness in the region. The Grecian serves as a reminder of the perils faced by those who navigated the Great Lakes in the early 20th century and continues to captivate the interest of historians and divers alike.
KEYWORDS #
- Grecian shipwreck
- Lake Huron freighter
- Submerged wreck
- Great Lakes maritime history
- Steel-hulled freighter
- Deep dive site
GPS COORDINATES & ADDITIONAL INFO #
The wreck of the Grecian is located at Latitude 44°58’06.2″N, Longitude 83°12’W, submerged at a depth of 65 feet in Lake Huron. Divers and mariners should exercise caution when navigating near the wreck site, and updates from recent surveys should be reviewed to ensure safety.
