Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

Maplehurst C 138230 (Cadillac US 126876)

Explore the wreck of the Maplehurst, a steel bulk propeller ship that tragically sank in Lake Superior, claiming 11 lives during a severe storm.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: MAPLEHURST (formerly CADILLAC)
  • Type: Steel Bulk Propeller Ship
  • Year Built: 1892
  • Builder: Unknown
  • Dimensions: Length: 235.1 ft (71.7 m); Beam: 36.8 ft (11.2 m); Depth of hold: 15.4 ft (4.7 m)
  • Registered Tonnage: Gross Tonnage: 1263 tons; Net Tonnage: 1068 tons
  • Location: Near the West Breakwater, Portage Ship Canal, Lake Superior
  • Official Number: U.S. Official Number: 126876; Canadian Official Number: 138230
  • Original Owners: Original Owner: Unknown (U.S.-based); 1913: Purchased by Canada Steamship Lines and renamed MAPLEHURST

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Type: Steel Bulk Propeller Ship

Other Names: CADILLAC

Description

The CADILLAC was a robust bulk propeller ship built in 1892. It served primarily in cargo transport on the Great Lakes, demonstrating reliable service for over two decades. Its steel construction and dimensions were well-suited for carrying large volumes of bulk goods.

In 1913, the ship was renamed MAPLEHURST and registered under a Canadian number. It became part of the Canada Steamship Lines fleet, continuing its service on the Great Lakes with improved specifications and horsepower.

History

FINAL INCIDENT (December 1, 1922):

  • The MAPLEHURST was caught in severe weather near the Portage Ship Canal, Lake Superior.
  • The ship was driven ashore near the West Breakwater, with the force of the impact breaking the vessel in half.
  • Casualties: Tragically, 11 crew members lost their lives in the disaster.

The wreck was considered a total loss, marking a significant maritime tragedy on Lake Superior.

Significant Incidents

  • The ship was driven ashore during severe weather, resulting in it breaking in half.
  • 11 crew members lost their lives in the incident.

Final Disposition

The ship broke in half upon grounding and remains near the West Breakwater of Portage Ship Canal. The MAPLEHURST’s sinking is remembered as one of the tragic lake disasters in Great Lakes maritime history.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck is confirmed and remains submerged near the West Breakwater, with its condition reflecting the impact of the grounding.

Resources & Links

The MAPLEHURST/CADILLAC is a poignant example of the perils faced by Great Lakes vessels, particularly in the volatile weather conditions of Lake Superior. Its transition from a U.S.-registered ship to a Canadian one underlines the interconnected maritime trade between the two nations. The loss of 11 lives during its wreck underscores the dangers of early 20th-century shipping.