Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: SS Florida
- Type: Steamship
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions: 270.8 ft (82.5 m); 40.2 ft (12.2 m); 15.4 ft (4.7 m)
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 67 m / 220 ft
- Location: Between False Presque Isle and Middle Island
- Original Owners: Lackawanna Line
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The SS Florida was a large steamship designed for transporting bulk cargo, such as grain and general merchandise, across the Great Lakes. At 270.8 feet in length, it was a significant vessel of its time, capable of carrying vast quantities of goods. The Florida was part of the Lackawanna Line, a well-known shipping enterprise on the Great Lakes.
Description
The SS Florida was a steamship that met its fate in Lake Huron during a dense fog on May 20, 1897. It was carrying a cargo of 56,000 bushels of wheat and general merchandise when it collided with the steamer George W. Roby. The collision caused severe damage, leading to the vessel sinking in approximately 220 feet of water.
History
On May 20, 1897, the SS Florida departed carrying a cargo of 56,000 bushels of wheat and general merchandise. As it navigated Lake Huron, dense fog enveloped the region, a perilous condition for vessels in the 19th century. The fog, coupled with miscommunication of passing signals, led to a catastrophic collision with the steamer George W. Roby.
The collision inflicted severe damage on the Florida, causing it to take on water rapidly. The vessel sank to the bottom of Lake Huron in approximately 220 feet of water. Fortunately, all 21 crew members were rescued by the George W. Roby, avoiding any loss of life.
Significant Incidents
- Collision with the George W. Roby on May 20, 1897.
- Legal proceedings followed the sinking, with claims for damages amounting to $172,400.
Final Disposition
The sinking of the Florida resulted in the total loss of the vessel and its cargo. Legal proceedings ensued, with the owners and underwriters of the Florida filing a libel against the Roby, claiming damages of $172,400. Both the vessel and cargo were insured, mitigating the financial impact of the loss to some degree.
The legal battle highlighted the dangers of navigation in fog and the importance of clear communication between vessels in the era before modern navigation technology.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the SS Florida rests at a depth of 220 feet, making it accessible only to advanced technical divers using specialized equipment. The condition of the wreck is not well-documented, but the cold, fresh waters of Lake Huron likely contributed to its preservation.
Resources & Links
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The loss of the SS Florida during a dense fog on Lake Huron in 1897 exemplifies the dangers of navigation on the Great Lakes in the late 19th century. The tragedy, though resulting in no loss of life, underscores the challenges faced by mariners in a time when communication and navigation technology were rudimentary. Today, the wreck serves as a testament to the risks of Great Lakes shipping and is a potential site for future historical and diving exploration.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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