We’re excited to share that 3DShipwrecks has just released a fully interactive 3D model of the Material Service barge — one of the most accessible and historically significant wrecks in Lake Michigan.
The Material Service was a self-unloading sand and gravel barge that sank suddenly off Calumet Harbor on July 29, 1936, during a powerful squall. The wreck now rests in shallow water, making it a favorite among recreational divers and underwater archaeologists. The model, created by maritime historian and diver Ken Merryman, offers unprecedented access to the wreck’s structure, including open hatches, winches, and the distinctive unloading conveyor system.
About the Model
- Location: Calumet Harbor, Lake Michigan
- Depth: ~35 ft (10.7 m)
- Year Built: 1929 at Leathem D. Smith Shipbuilding, Wisconsin
- Cause of Loss: Capsized in squall due to shifting cargo
This digital recreation allows students, historians, and divers to explore the site virtually, providing educational and preservation benefits for the long term. It’s also part of a broader effort to document submerged cultural resources across the Great Lakes.
Follow @3DShipwrecks for more model releases, and stay tuned for upcoming dive briefs and site documentation on our wreck guide. and for complete history visit our page – https://shotlinediving.com/docs/material-service-us-228371/