IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The wreck is believed to be a wooden tugboat, a small yet sturdy vessel typically used for towing or pushing ships in harbors, over the open water, or through narrow channels. This particular tug is estimated to have been about 50 feet in length, a common size for such vessels in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tugboats like this one were essential for assisting larger ships in navigating tight spots and for handling barges and other vessels that lacked self-propulsion.
HISTORY #
The wreck of this unknown wooden tug was first documented in the historical survey H9839/79. It lies in shallow water, only 5 feet below the surface, making it a significant hazard to surface navigation. The tug appears to have broken up over time, with only the ribs, planking, and some gears remaining visible. The wreckage is spread out, suggesting that the vessel may have deteriorated significantly since it sank.
Historical records from 1975 note that the wreck was situated on a protruding rib, with the shallowest point being 5 feet below the water. Due to the poor visibility in the area, it has been challenging for divers to explore and document the site thoroughly. There is also a note about a possible typo in the recorded position, indicating the correct latitude should be 45°03’17.2″N.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The wooden tug remains submerged in Lake Huron, broken up with only parts of the structure, such as ribs, planking, and gears, still visible. Its shallow depth and the fact that it lies in a location with poor visibility conditions make it a navigational hazard, particularly for small boats and other vessels with a shallow draft. The wreck’s condition suggests that it has been underwater for a significant period, leading to its current fragmented state.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck was documented in survey H9839/79 and further investigated in a 1975 survey, which provided essential details about its condition and location. The coordinates have been noted with caution due to a potential typo, but the site remains an area of interest for further investigation to confirm the wreck’s identity and ensure accurate charting.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
Given its shallow depth and poor visibility conditions, mariners should exercise caution when navigating near the reported coordinates of this wreck. Current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) should be consulted for any advisories related to this area. Due to the wreck’s hazardous nature, it is essential for vessels to be aware of its presence to avoid potential 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
- NOAA AWOIS Database: NOAA AWOIS Database
CONCLUSION #
The wreck identified as record number 498 is believed to be that of a wooden tugboat, now broken up and submerged in Lake Huron. Its shallow depth of just 5 feet below the surface, combined with poor visibility, makes it a significant hazard to navigation. The wreck’s deteriorated state reflects the challenges of maritime navigation and the harsh conditions that vessels on the Great Lakes often faced. Further investigation by divers is recommended to clarify the wreck’s identity and ensure that its position is accurately charted for the safety of mariners.
KEYWORDS #
- Lake Huron tugboat wreck
- Wooden tugboat
- Submerged wreck
- Great Lakes maritime history
- Navigation hazard
- Shipwreck diving site
GPS COORDINATES & ADDITIONAL INFO #
The wreck is located at Latitude 45°03’17.2″N, Longitude 83°25’54.9″W, submerged at a depth of 5 feet in Lake Huron. Mariners and divers should exercise caution when navigating or exploring this area and should refer to the latest survey data and NOTMARs for safe passage and accurate positioning.
