Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

Robert Wallace (1882)

Explore the wreck of the Robert Wallace, a wooden bulk freighter that sank in Lake Superior, offering insights into 19th-century maritime engineering.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: Robert Wallace
  • Type: Wooden Bulk Freighter
  • Year Built: 1882
  • Builder: Unknown, built in Cleveland, Ohio
  • Dimensions: Length 209.4 ft (63.8 m); Beam 36.2 ft (11 m); Depth of hold 17.9 ft (5.5 m)
  • Registered Tonnage: Gross Tonnage: 1,189.56 tons; Net Tonnage: 905.38 tons
  • Depth at Wreck Site: 71.6 m / 235 ft
  • Location: Approximately 13 miles southeast of Two Harbors, Minnesota, Lake Superior
  • Original Owners: Owned by David Wallace and others, Black River, Ohio (Lorain)

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type: Wooden Bulk Freighter

Description

Description: The Robert Wallace was a wooden bulk freighter designed for transporting iron ore from Minnesota’s Iron Range to manufacturing centers in the eastern United States. It featured a screw propulsion system powered by a for-and-aft compound engine with two cylinders, manufactured by Globe Iron Works in Cleveland, Ohio.

History

History: The Robert Wallace served for 20 years as a reliable wooden bulk freighter, primarily engaged in the transport of iron ore. At the time of its loss, it was carrying iron ore when it sank in Lake Superior.

Significant Incidents

Significant Incidents:

  • Date of Incident: November 17, 1902
  • Cause of Sinking: Stress from towing caused the stern post to tear out, compounded by a burst steam pipe.
  • Outcome: The vessel foundered and sank approximately 13 miles southeast of Two Harbors, Minnesota.

Final Disposition

Final Disposition: The Robert Wallace sank in Lake Superior due to structural failure and steam pipe issues. It remains a significant wreck site for maritime archaeology.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Current Condition & Accessibility: The wreck lies at a depth of 235 ft (71.6 m) and is largely intact, with the hull separated along the stem. The stern structure is mostly preserved, while the bow is partially broken, allowing for detailed views of hull construction. A bronze bell engraved with the ship’s name remains attached to the wooden rail.

Resources & Links

This structured report ensures clarity and preserves the historical and archaeological significance of the Robert Wallace.