Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Heather Lee
• Type: Tug
• Year Built:
• Builder: Unknown
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: Off Pelee Passage, Lake Erie
• Coordinates: Latitude 41° 56' N, Longitude 82° 8' W
• Original Owners: Unknown
• Number of Masts: Single Screw (presumed)

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Heather Lee was classified as a tug, primarily used for towing and assisting larger vessels in navigation.

Description

The Heather Lee was a small tug operating on Lake Erie during the early 20th century. In December 1920, the vessel caught fire and was lost near the coordinates 41° 56′ N, 82° 8′ W—placing her southeast of Pelee Island and within Canadian waters. Historical records regarding the vessel’s build, ownership, and service history remain sparse, but her loss contributes to the broader catalog of working vessels claimed by the unpredictable and often unforgiving nature of Lake Erie.

History

The Heather Lee was a small tug operating on Lake Erie during the early 20th century. In December 1920, the vessel caught fire and was lost near the coordinates 41° 56′ N, 82° 8′ W—placing her southeast of Pelee Island and within Canadian waters. Historical records regarding the vessel’s build, ownership, and service history remain sparse, but her loss contributes to the broader catalog of working vessels claimed by the unpredictable and often unforgiving nature of Lake Erie.

Significant Incidents

• December 1920: The Heather Lee caught fire and was lost.

Final Disposition

The final location of the Heather Lee is reported to be off Pelee Passage in Lake Erie. The wreck status remains unconfirmed.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck status of the Heather Lee is unconfirmed. Diving suitability is unknown, but it may be a potential research target. Visibility and conditions are also unknown.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”heather-lee” title=”References & Links”]

Though relatively obscure, the Heather Lee‘s fiery loss reflects the hazards faced by early tug crews operating year-round on the Great Lakes. Her story may be a candidate for further research and potential discovery by underwater archaeologists and dive teams.