Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Falcon (formerly Kate Buttironi)
• Type: Bulk Freighter
• Year Built: 1881
• Builder: George King
• Dimensions: Length 174.5 ft (53.2 m); Beam 31 ft (9.4 m); Depth of hold 20 ft (6.1 m)
• Registered Tonnage:
• Depth at Wreck Site: 7.6 m / 25 ft
• Location: South Fox Island, Lake Michigan
• Coordinates: 45° 23.286′ N, 85° 52.098′ W
• Official Number: 14393
• Number of Masts: Not specified

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Falcon is classified as a bulk freighter, designed for the transportation of unpackaged bulk cargo such as grain, coal, and iron ore.

Description

The wreck of the Falcon lies splayed out on the lakebed near South Fox Island in shallow water. While much of the vessel has disintegrated over time, key features remain visible, making it a notable site for divers and maritime historians.

History

The Falcon, initially known as Kate Buttironi, was a wooden bulk freighter built in 1881 in Marine City, Michigan, by George King. It was primarily used for transporting bulk goods such as grain, coal, and iron ore, reflecting the thriving industrial trade on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century.

The Falcon’s career came to an abrupt end on November 7, 1901, when it stranded on South Fox Island, Lake Michigan, during harsh weather conditions. The ship’s loss illustrates the hazards faced by freighters navigating the unpredictable Great Lakes waters.

Significant Incidents

• Stranded on South Fox Island during harsh weather conditions on November 7, 1901.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the Falcon remains on the lakebed, providing a historical site for divers and researchers interested in maritime history.

Current Condition & Accessibility

At a depth of 25 ft (7.6 m), the site is accessible to divers and snorkelers of all experience levels. The shallow depth and clear waters of Lake Michigan provide good visibility and ease of exploration. The wreckage is spread out, offering a unique opportunity to examine the remnants of a 19th-century bulk freighter.

Resources & Links

Overall, the Falcon serves as a significant reminder of the maritime history of the Great Lakes and the challenges faced by vessels navigating these waters.