T.H. Camp – Lake Superior Tug Shipwreck (1900)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: T.H. Camp
• Type: Fishing Tug (Temporary Cargo Carrier at the time of loss)
• Year Built: 1876
• Builder: Luther Read, Cape Vincent, New York
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage:
• Depth at Wreck Site: 61 m / 200 ft
• Location: Near Madeline Island, Apostle Islands, Lake Superior
• Official Number: US 147127
• Original Owners: A. Booth & Co., Chicago, Illinois

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The T.H. Camp was a sturdy wooden-hulled fishing tug, a workhorse of the Great Lakes fishing industry. These vessels were designed for the rigors of fishing and transport in challenging conditions. At the time of its demise, the T.H. Camp was operating as a temporary cargo carrier, laden with lumber camp supplies bound for the isolated Madeline Island in the Apostle Islands.

Description

The T.H. Camp was a sturdy wooden-hulled fishing tug, a workhorse of the Great Lakes fishing industry. These vessels were designed for the rigors of fishing and transport in challenging conditions. At the time of its demise, the T.H. Camp was operating as a temporary cargo carrier, laden with lumber camp supplies bound for the isolated Madeline Island in the Apostle Islands.

History

Purpose: Built as a fishing tug, the T.H. Camp served a dual role during its final voyage, transporting essential supplies to support a remote lumber camp.

Final Voyage:

• Cargo: Lumber camp supplies intended for Madeline Island.
• Incident: On November 16, 1900, a powerful storm engulfed the T.H. Camp as it approached Madeline Island. The vessel struck a reef, breaching its hull, and sank rapidly in the treacherous waters of Lake Superior.

Significant Incidents

• Casualties: None. The crew survived the sinking.
• Cargo Loss: All lumber camp supplies were lost to the depths.

Final Disposition

The T.H. Camp now rests at a depth of 200 feet, a silent witness to the dangers of navigating the Great Lakes. Its cargo and structural remains lie scattered across the lakebed.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Condition: The wreck is well-preserved due to Lake Superior’s cold, fresh waters, which inhibit decay. However, the exact state of the vessel requires further documentation.

Accessibility:

• The site lies at a depth of 200 feet, making it accessible primarily to experienced technical divers with advanced equipment.
• Strong currents and frigid temperatures add to the challenge of exploring the wreck.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”t-h-camp-us-147127″ title=”References & Links”]

The story of the T.H. Camp serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by those navigating the Great Lakes. Its loss highlights the region’s unpredictable weather and hidden dangers, and its resting place at 200 feet below the surface preserves its memory as part of Lake Superior’s rich maritime history.