Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Matoa
- Type: Steamer-Barge
- Year Built: 1890
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage: 2,311 tons gross
- Location: Port Austin Reef, Lake Huron
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Steamer-Barge Matoa (built 1890 – grounded November 11, 1913)
Description
The Matoa was a steel-hulled lake freighter built in 1890, primarily used for transporting coal. She was later renamed Glenrig in 1923 and Huguenot in 1926.
History
During the infamous “Big Storm” (White Hurricane) of November 1913, the Matoa was sheltering near Port Austin Reef at the mouth of Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron. The massive gale, with hurricane-force winds and towering waves, drove her aground on the reef. She was declared a total loss, though her entire crew survived the ordeal.
Significant Incidents
- Grounded during the 1913 storm, declared a total loss.
- All crew members survived the incident.
Final Disposition
Despite her grounding, the hull was later recovered and rebuilt, returning to service under new names (Glenrig, then Huguenot), showcasing her sturdy steel construction. A commemorative plaque, salvaged by survivor Alex Umlauf, is located at the Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse, symbolizing the wreck’s local significance.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the Matoa is a significant historical site, representing the impact of the 1913 storm on Great Lakes shipping. The area around Port Austin Reef may still contain remnants of the vessel.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”huguenot-glenrig-matoa” title=”References & Links”]
The story of the Matoa is a testament to the durability of early steel freighters and the resilience of those who navigated the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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