Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: SS Etruria
- Type: Steel-hulled bulk freighter
- Year Built: 1902
- Builder: West Bay City Shipbuilding Co.
- Dimensions: 434 ft long; Beam 50 ft; Depth of hold 28 ft
- Registered Tonnage: approx. 4,653 GRT
- Depth at Wreck Site: 94 m / 310 ft
- Location: Lake Huron, approximately 10 miles off Presque Isle Light
- Coordinates: N 45°28.981′ W 83°28.4198′
- Official Number: 136977
- Original Owners: Hawgood Transit Co.
- Number of Masts: Not specified
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
SS Etruria was a steel-hulled bulk freighter designed for transporting cargo, primarily coal, across the Great Lakes.
Description
The SS Etruria was launched on February 8, 1902, and was notable for its size and capacity, being one of the largest freighters of its time.
History
After being enrolled on April 12, 1902, the Etruria served in the Great Lakes shipping industry until its sinking in 1905.
Significant Incidents
- On June 18, 1905, the Etruria was struck by the downbound steel freighter Amasa Stone in heavy fog, leading to its capsizing and sinking.
- All crew members were rescued by the nearby vessel Maritana.
Final Disposition
The wreck of the Etruria was discovered on May 17, 2011, during NOAA’s Project Shiphunt, confirmed to be upside-down at a depth of approximately 310 feet.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck lies largely intact, with about 405 feet of hull exposed. It is designated as part of the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and requires advanced technical diving or ROV operations for access.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”ss-etruria-us-136977″ title=”References & Links”]
The sinking of the Etruria marked a significant event in Great Lakes maritime history, highlighting navigation challenges and legal implications of maritime collisions in the early 20th century.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
Join Shotline to read more →