Joe Smith – Lake Superior Steamer Shipwreck (1926)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Joe Smith (originally built as The Moose)
• Type: Wooden-hulled propeller steam vessel
• Year Built: 1907
• Builder: Superior, Wisconsin
• Dimensions: 82 ft × 20 ft × 11 ft; approx. 145 tons (U.S. measurement: 98 GRT, 52 NRT)
• Registered Tonnage: 145 tons
• Location: Amethyst Harbor, Ontario
• Official Number: C138862 (U.S. No. 203947)

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Wooden-hulled propeller steam vessel, configured for passenger and package freight service.

Description

The Joe Smith was part of a class of small propeller steamers intended as consorts to larger vessels, such as the schooners Nellie Mason and Mattie C. Bell, supporting the steamer C. H. Green.

History

Built in 1907 at Superior, Wisconsin, the Joe Smith likely engaged in short-distance freight and passenger services along the Lake Superior shoreline.

Significant Incidents

• Date of Loss: May 22, 1926
• Location: Amethyst Harbor, Ontario (Lake Superior)
• Scenario: The Joe Smith was anchored in Amethyst Harbor when a fire broke out aboard, resulting in a total loss of the vessel.
• Casualties: None reported; thankfully, no fatalities occurred in the blaze.

Final Disposition

The vessel burned completely while at anchor, and her remains presumably lie within Amethyst Harbor. The wreckage may consist of charred timbers and submerged machinery remains.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck site has not been surveyed or documented by divers or archaeologists. There are no Notices to Mariners or buoys marking the wreck, and it remains uncharted, posing potential underwater hazards.

Resources & Links

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The loss of Joe Smith highlights the fire risks aboard wooden steam-powered vessels, even when moored. As a support vessel to larger steamers, she represents an often-overlooked segment of Great Lakes maritime infrastructure.