IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION:
The Cedarville was a steel-hulled bulk freighter, initially built as the A.F. Harvey in 1927. It served as a workhorse on the Great Lakes, primarily transporting bulk cargo such as limestone. In 1957, the vessel underwent a significant transformation at DeFoe Shipbuilding Company, where it was converted into a self-unloader, enabling it to unload cargo independently. This modification greatly enhanced its efficiency, making it a vital asset to the Pittsburgh Steamship Company, a subsidiary of U.S. Steel Corporation.
HISTORY:
Launched as A.F. Harvey in 1927, the vessel was part of the Pittsburgh Steamship Company’s fleet, playing a crucial role in transporting materials across the Great Lakes. The ship’s renaming to Cedarville in 1957 coincided with its conversion to a self-unloader, a modification that modernized its operations and extended its service life.
On May 7, 1965, the Cedarville embarked on a voyage that would end in tragedy. Carrying a cargo of limestone, the ship navigated Lake Huron under dense fog conditions that severely limited visibility. Despite the challenging conditions, the Cedarville continued at a high speed, leading to a catastrophic collision with the Norwegian freighter Topdalsfjord at approximately 9:50 a.m., just three miles east of the Mackinac Bridge.
FINAL DISPOSITION:
The collision proved fatal for the Cedarville. The ship began to sink rapidly, and the crew had little time to react. Amidst the chaos, the German motor vessel Weissenburg, nearby, was able to rescue several survivors. However, the tragedy claimed ten lives, a devastating loss that echoed through their families and communities.
The subsequent investigation placed primary responsibility for the collision on the Cedarville, though debates continue over the roles played by the dense fog and possible navigational errors. The wreck of the Cedarville lies in approximately 120 feet of water, drawing divers who are both intrigued by its history and aware of the risks involved. The site has claimed additional lives, underscoring the dangers of exploring such a tragic wreck.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES:
- Current Notices: There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) directly related to the Cedarville wreck site. Divers and researchers are advised to consult with local maritime authorities and ensure proper preparation before attempting to explore the site.
LOCATED BY & DATE:
- Discovery: The Cedarville’s wreck site has been known since shortly after the incident in 1965. The site is now a popular, though dangerous, dive location.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
- Great Lakes Boating
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Wikipedia
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- Bowling Green State University
- Shipwreck Log
- Captain Jim’s Gallery
- Wandering Educators
- Community Stories
PICTURES:
(Include available historical images of the Cedarville, photographs of debris found, and other related imagery. If available, include pictures of the wreck site and its exploration by divers.)
KEYWORDS:
Cedarville, A.F. Harvey, Great Lakes Shipwreck, Lake Huron, Mackinac Bridge, Bulk Freighter, Self-Unloader, Maritime History, Great Lakes.
CONCLUSION:
The sinking of the Cedarville is a poignant chapter in Great Lakes maritime history, illustrating the perils faced by ships and their crews. The tragedy that unfolded on May 7, 1965, highlights the unpredictability of the Great Lakes and the devastating impact of navigational challenges compounded by natural elements like fog. The loss of ten crew members remains a somber reminder of the dangers inherent in maritime navigation. The Cedarville’s wreck, now resting at the bottom of Lake Huron, continues to captivate divers and historians, its mysteries still waiting to be fully uncovered. As the years pass, the story of the Cedarville endures, serving as a solemn testament to the enduring power and unpredictability of the Great Lakes.
