Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: SS Lakeland (née Cambria)
- Type: Freighter
- Year Built: 1887
- Builder: Globe Iron Works Company, Cleveland, Ohio
- Dimensions: Length ~300.6 ft (91.6 m); Beam ~39 ft (12 m); Depth of hold ~24 ft (7.3 m)
- Registered Tonnage: ~1,878.1 tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 62 m / 205 ft
- Location: Lake Michigan, east of Sturgeon Bay
- Official Number: 126420
- Original Owners: Mutual Transportation Company (Federal Steel Company, Elbert Gary ownership)
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The SS Lakeland, originally named Cambria, was a steel-hulled freighter designed for bulk cargo transport. It was one of the earliest vessels of its kind, showcasing advancements in maritime engineering.
Description
The wreck of the SS Lakeland lies upright at a depth of approximately 205 feet (62 m) in Lake Michigan. The site features a highly intact structure with visible wreckage from the cargo elevator and numerous vehicles still present in the hold.
History
Built in 1887, the vessel was initially named Cambria and served the Mutual Transportation Company. It underwent several modifications throughout its service, including a significant refit in 1910 and a conversion to an automobile carrier in 1920. The ship sank on December 3, 1924, after developing an unmanageable leak while en route from Chicago to Detroit.
Significant Incidents
- Grounding in June 1888 near Peninsula Point Light, resulting in hull damage.
- Collision and grounding in St. Marys River in 1910.
- Extensive overhaul from 1923 to 1924, including relocation of the boiler room and repairs to the rudder.
Final Disposition
The SS Lakeland sank approximately 9 miles offshore in Lake Michigan, breaking in two during the final moments. No crew fatalities were reported, but the estimated losses amounted to around $500,000 for the ship and $45,000 for the cargo.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck is accessible to skilled technical divers, with penetration possible. The site is protected under sanctuary laws, prohibiting artifact removal. Dive hazards include limited visibility and entanglement risks from monofilament lines.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”lakeland-cambria-us-126420″ title=”References & Links”]
The SS Lakeland is recognized for its historical significance and diving legacy, being listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015. The wreck remains a popular dive site, attracting divers interested in its rich history and well-preserved artifacts.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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