Minneapolis – Lake Huron Freighter Shipwreck (1894)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Minneapolis
• Type: Wooden propeller-driven freighter (bulk steamer)
• Year Built: 1873
• Builder: Marine City, Michigan
• Dimensions: Length X ft; Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage:
• Depth at Wreck Site: 38 m / 125 ft
• Location: Approximately four miles east of McGulpin Point, Straits of Mackinac, Lake Huron
• Original Owners: Sold in 1888 to A A Parker et al., Detroit, Michigan; Transferred in 1890 to Parker Transportation Co., Detroit (home port Hamtramck, MI)

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Wooden propeller-driven freighter (bulk steamer) built in 1873.

Description

The Minneapolis was a wooden freighter that sank in the Straits of Mackinac after sustaining damage from ice flows. It is now a dive site located approximately four miles east of McGulpin Point.

History

Ownership of the Minneapolis changed hands in 1888 when it was sold to A A Parker et al. in Detroit, Michigan. In 1890, it was transferred to Parker Transportation Co., with its home port in Hamtramck, Michigan. The vessel was engaged in transporting coal and was towing two schooner-barges, Red Wing and San Diego, on its last voyage.

Significant Incidents

• On April 4, 1894, the Minneapolis struck ice flows off McGulpin Point, which caused it to become holed and begin leaking.
• The vessel sank at approximately 3:30 AM, with the crew being rescued by the consort vessel San Diego.

Final Disposition

The Minneapolis sank in approximately 125 feet of water and was rediscovered in 1963. Artifacts, including an 1864 Smith & Wesson revolver, were recovered and conserved for display at the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the Minneapolis is located about 500 feet from the South Tower of the Mackinac Bridge and is part of the Underwater Preserve, making it an accessible recreational dive site.

Resources & Links

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The Minneapolis serves as a significant example of the hazards faced by vessels navigating the Straits during spring break-up and highlights the early enforcement culture among crew aboard Great Lakes steam freighters.