Ira O. Smith – Lake Michigan Freighter Shipwreck (1898)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Ira O. Smith
• Type: Wooden, propeller-driven bulk freighter or package steamer
• Year Built: 1877
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: Near Evanston, Illinois

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Type: Wooden, propeller-driven bulk freighter or package steamer

Description

The Ira O. Smith was built in 1877, but specific construction details and registry data are lacking. The vessel was engaged in commercial shipping, primarily operating between Milwaukee and Chicago.

History

The final voyage of the Ira O. Smith occurred on September 22, 1898, when it set sail from Milwaukee bound for Chicago. During this voyage, a fire broke out at sea near Evanston, Illinois. Despite the crew’s efforts to contain the fire, it spread rapidly, leading to the decision to run the vessel aground and abandon it.

Significant Incidents

• Aboard the Ira O. Smith, fire broke out at sea near Evanston, and despite efforts by the crew, it could not be contained.
• The burning vessel was eventually run aground and abandoned, but thankfully, no lives were lost—all crew members were rescued safely.
• The date is confirmed via the Great Lakes Shipwreck Files list under “M” (September 22, 1898, Evanston incident).

Final Disposition

• The vessel was destroyed by fire, later sinking or being dismantled near shore after grounding.
• The engine was reportedly salvaged in October 1898, indicating at least partial recovery efforts.
• No formal salvage of the wreck itself is recorded.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the Ira O. Smith is believed to have been destroyed by fire, with reports indicating it may have sunk or been dismantled after grounding. No formal salvage operations have been recorded for the wreck itself.

Resources & Links

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The Ira O. Smith succumbed to a catastrophic fire on September 22, 1898, off Evanston, Illinois. While the ship was lost, all crew survived, and the engine was later salvaged. The tragedy underscores the fire risk inherent to wooden steamers and spotlights recovery priorities in the Great Lakes maritime industry.