Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: E.W. Oglebay
- Type: Bulk Freighter
- Year Built: 1896
- Builder: F. W. Wheeler & Co., West Bay City, Michigan (Hull No. 114)
- Dimensions: 376 ft x 46 ft x 23 ft (approx. 114.6 m x 14.0 m x 7.0 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 3,666 gross tons (approx. 3,325 metric tonnes); 3,019 net tons (approx. 2,740 metric tonnes)
- Location: Shot Point, 10 miles (16 km) east of Marquette, Michigan
- Coordinates: Not specified
- Official Number: 136547
- Original Owners: Not specified
- Number of Masts: Not specified
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The E.W. Oglebay was a steel-hulled, propeller-driven bulk freighter, commonly referred to as a “laker.” These vessels were specifically designed for transporting bulk cargoes such as iron ore, coal, and grain through the Great Lakes and their connecting waterways. The E.W. Oglebay was among the larger freighters of her time, reflecting the industrial growth and demand for efficient cargo transport in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Description
Constructed in 1896 by F. W. Wheeler & Co. in West Bay City, Michigan, the E.W. Oglebay measured 376 feet in length, 46 feet in beam, and 23 feet in depth (approx. 114.6 m x 14.0 m x 7.0 m). With a gross tonnage of 3,666 tons (approx. 3,325 metric tonnes), she was built to handle substantial cargo loads. Her steel construction and propeller-driven design were indicative of the technological advancements in shipbuilding during that era, aiming to enhance durability and propulsion efficiency.
History
The E.W. Oglebay served as a bulk freighter on the Great Lakes for over three decades, primarily transporting iron ore and other bulk commodities essential to the industrial sectors of the United States and Canada. On December 8, 1927, while traveling light and upbound for Fort William, Ontario, she encountered a severe northeast blizzard on Lake Superior. The storm’s intensity caused the vessel to be driven ashore at Shot Point, approximately 10 miles (16 km) east of Marquette, Michigan. Following the grounding, the E.W. Oglebay was gutted by fire, rendering her a total loss. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported among the crew.
Significant Incidents
- Grounded at Shot Point during a northeast blizzard on December 8, 1927.
- Gutted by fire after grounding; deemed a total loss.
Final Disposition
After the incident, the remains of the E.W. Oglebay were deemed unsalvageable for continued service. Subsequently, the hull was towed to Drummond Island, located at the head of Lake Huron, where it was intentionally sunk to serve as dock facing. This practice was common during that period, repurposing the remains of ships to reinforce and protect dock structures.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the E.W. Oglebay was visible at Shot Point following the grounding in 1927. Historical accounts indicate that during the winter months, ice skaters from Marquette would venture out to view the wreckage, highlighting its prominence and accessibility at the time.
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories related to the E.W. Oglebay. Mariners operating in the vicinity of Shot Point should consult the latest nautical charts and local notices for any updates.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”e-w-oglebay-us-136547″ title=”References & Links”]
The E.W. Oglebay exemplifies the challenges faced by maritime vessels on the Great Lakes during the early 20th century. Her loss underscores the perils of navigating these vast inland seas, particularly during severe weather events. The vessel’s subsequent use as dock facing at Drummond Island reflects the practical approaches to shipwreck management during that era.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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