Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: H.E. Runnels
- Type: Wooden-hulled propeller steam barge
- Year Built: 1893
- Builder: Jenks Shipbuilding Co., Port Huron, MI
- Dimensions: 182 ft (55.5 m) x 35 ft (10.7 m) x 13 ft (4 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 862 gross / 694 net tons
- Location: Grand Marais, Lake Superior
- Coordinates: Unknown (wreck broken near pier)
- Official Number: 96230
- Original Owners: Unknown
- Number of Masts: None noted
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The H.E. Runnels was a wooden-hulled propeller-driven steam barge designed for the coal trade on the upper Great Lakes. With a capacity of over 860 gross tons, she was representative of bulk freighters serving the mining and industrial economies of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin. Her hull, machinery, and rigging were all suited for tough lake service.
Description
The H.E. Runnels was a wooden-hulled propeller-driven steam barge designed for the coal trade on the upper Great Lakes. With a capacity of over 860 gross tons, she was representative of bulk freighters serving the mining and industrial economies of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin. Her hull, machinery, and rigging were all suited for tough lake service.
History
Built in 1893 by Jenks Shipbuilding of Port Huron, the Runnels spent her working life transporting coal and bulk goods across Lakes Huron and Superior. She operated regularly between Lake Erie coal ports and industrial destinations like Lake Linden.
On November 13, 1919, the vessel took refuge in Grand Marais harbor as a storm gathered strength. The next day, despite worsening conditions, the captain attempted to leave port. During the maneuver, the steering gear failed while the vessel backed into the channel. The freighter was caught by massive waves, driven ashore, and rapidly broke apart.
Significant Incidents
- On November 14, 1919, the H.E. Runnels was lost due to steering failure during a storm.
- All 17 crew members survived due to the rescue by Grand Marais Life-Saving Service.
Final Disposition
The vessel was completely destroyed within hours of grounding. Her hull shattered on the rocks near the Grand Marais pier, and remnants were buried in beach sands. No intact remains have been documented.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Not formally located; the wreck remains buried in shifting sands. No known survey or dive documentation exists.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”h-e-runnels-us-96230″ title=”References & Links”]
The H.E. Runnels serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes, particularly during severe weather conditions. The heroic rescue of her crew highlights the bravery of the Grand Marais Life-Saving Service.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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