Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: James H. Reed
- Type: Steel Bulk Freight Propeller
- Year Built: 1903
- Builder: Detroit Shipbuilding Co., Wyandotte, MI
- Dimensions: 448 ft (136.6 m); Beam: 52.2 ft (15.9 m); Depth of hold: 29 ft (8.8 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 5598 tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 17 m / 50 ft
- Location: Lake Erie, ~20 miles north of Conneaut, OH (off Long Point)
- Official Number: US 76199
- Original Owners: Interlake Steamship Co., Cleveland, OH
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The James H. Reed was a robust steel-hulled bulk freighter, typical of the early 20th century Interlake fleet. Designed for the demanding iron ore trade, she exemplified the Great Lakes “workhorse” freighter with substantial deadweight and compartmentalized holds.
Description
The Reed sailed the Lakes for over four decades, primarily hauling bulk iron ore. On 27 April 1944, while en route from Superior, WI to Erie, PA, fully loaded with ore, she was fatally struck amidships by the 550-foot Canadian freighter Ashcroft during a nighttime crossing in Lake Erie.
History
The impact caused the Reed to sink rapidly, resulting in the loss of 12 crew. Emergency response was limited due to wartime shipping congestion and blackout conditions.
Significant Incidents
- 27 April 1944: The James H. Reed was struck by the freighter Ashcroft, leading to her sinking and the loss of 12 crew members.
Final Disposition
The wreck was deemed a navigational hazard. Shortly after sinking, authorities dynamited the remains to reduce the risk to freighters navigating Lake Erie’s major east-west corridor. The site is now a dispersed debris field.
Current Condition & Accessibility
- Condition: Scattered wreckage, largely flattened by blasting
- Dive Depth: 17 m (50 ft) — shallow enough for recreational divers
- Dive Conditions: Limited visibility; debris field rather than intact structure
- Skill Level: Intermediate — current and bottom hazards require caution
- Permits/Access: Wreck may fall under Ohio DNR or U.S. Army Corps jurisdiction
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”john-b-lyon-us-76199″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The James H. Reed‘s loss during wartime Great Lakes commerce is emblematic of the ever-present risks in even well-traveled shipping lanes. While the dynamiting of her wreck limits modern exploration potential, she remains an important historical marker for maritime operations on Lake Erie. The incident is a solemn reminder of lives lost and of the pressures facing the shipping industry during WWII.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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