Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Indiana
- Type: Wooden Propeller Steamship
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions:
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 110 m / 360 ft
- Location: About 40 miles above Whitefish Point, Lake Superior, approximately 10 miles from shore
- Original Owners: Frank Perew of Cleveland
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Indiana was a wooden propeller-driven steamship, commonly used in the mid-19th century for the transportation of bulk cargo such as iron ore. Propeller steamships like the Indiana were the backbone of industrial shipping on the Great Lakes, offering reliability and efficiency in hauling goods and raw materials essential for economic growth. The vessel, measuring around 10–12 years old at the time of the incident, had proven its durability but was also showing signs of age.
Description
The Indiana was owned by Frank Perew of Cleveland and had been chartered for the season by E.C. Bancroft for $6,000. On its final voyage, the vessel carried 280 tons of iron ore from the Cleveland Mining Company, a lucrative cargo that underscored the importance of the Great Lakes shipping routes in supporting the burgeoning industrial sector.
On a Sunday evening in June 1858, the Indiana suffered a catastrophic mechanical failure when its stuffing box burst, causing the stern post to split. Water began flooding the vessel rapidly, extinguishing the fires in the boiler and rendering the propeller useless. The crew of 17, along with the captain, the owner, and three passengers (21 individuals in total), were forced to abandon ship.
The crew initially attempted to tow the vessel ashore using small boats, but a damaged lifeboat required constant bailing, and the effort was abandoned. Within 15 to 20 minutes, the Indiana settled to its guards and eventually sank in 360 feet of water.
History
The Indiana sank approximately 10 miles from shore, 40 miles above Whitefish Point. The vessel was a total loss, with an estimated value of $20,000. Insurance partially covered the loss, with $9,000 insured through the North Western company, Toledo Mutual, and Merchantile Mutual of New York. The cargo, also insured, was valued at $2,300.
The crew and passengers managed to reach shore safely using the ship’s small boats. They camped overnight and rigged sails to continue their journey, eventually arriving at Whitefish Point on Tuesday. They were rescued by the schooner St. Paul, which transported them to Sault Ste. Marie, where they arrived on Wednesday.
Significant Incidents
- The Indiana suffered a mechanical failure when its stuffing box burst, leading to a split stern post and rapid flooding.
- The crew and passengers abandoned ship and reached shore safely using small boats.
Final Disposition
The Indiana was a total loss, with its wreck lying approximately 360 feet (110 meters) underwater. There is no record of the wreck being discovered or thoroughly explored, making it a candidate for future underwater archaeological investigation.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The Indiana lies in approximately 360 feet (110 meters) of water. Given its age and depth, the wreck is likely well-preserved in the cold, freshwater environment of Lake Superior. However, the vessel’s remote location and depth make it inaccessible to most recreational divers. It may appeal to technical divers with proper equipment and experience, but there is little documentation of modern exploration of the wreck.
Current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs): None specifically issued for this wreck. However, Whitefish Point is known for its challenging waters and numerous shipwrecks, and mariners should navigate cautiously in the area.
Resources & Links
The Indiana was a critical part of the Great Lakes shipping network, transporting valuable cargo such as iron ore to fuel industrial growth. Its loss in June 1858 highlights the risks of early maritime transportation and the resilience of its crew, who survived under dire circumstances. Though the wreck remains undocumented, it holds historical significance and serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by Great Lakes mariners.