Lake Michigan, particularly near Chicago, has a rich history of shipwrecks that have captivated the imagination of both locals and tourists. From the ill-fated Silver Spray to the well-preserved Straits of Mackinac, these submerged vessels offer a glimpse into the maritime past of the region.
The Silver Spray: A Fiery Demise
The Silver Spray, a 109-foot wooden steamship built in 1894, met its demise on July 18, 1914, when it ran aground on Morgan Shoal while en route to pick up 200 University of Chicago students for a tour of the Gary Steel Mills. The ship caught fire and broke apart, leaving debris less than 200 yards from shore.
The David Dows: A Barkentine’s Watery Grave
The David Dows, a 5-masted barkentine, sank on November 29, 1889, while carrying 2053 tons of anthracite. The crew was rescued, but the ship’s hull and deck remain intact at a depth of 40 feet off Jackson Park.
The Straits of Mackinac: A Scuba Diver’s Delight
The Straits of Mackinac, a 196-foot-long steel car and passenger ferry, was scuttled in 78 feet of water in 2003 and is considered one of Chicago’s most popular shipwrecks, accessible for scuba diving.
The Wells Burt: A Well-Preserved Schooner
The Wells Burt, a three-masted schooner that sank in 1883, is another popular dive site, known for its well-preserved condition off the Chicago beachfront.
The Rotarian: A Unique Dive Experience
The Rotarian, a sailing vessel used as a dance hall and restaurant before being scuttled, is known for the bottles still present in the boat 75 years after its sinking, offering a unique dive experience.
The Tacoma: A Tugboat’s Watery Resting Place
The Tacoma, a tugboat that sank, offers a unique dive experience with its zebra mussel-encrusted boiler and double expansion steam engine.
Morgan Shoal: A Geological Treasure Trove
Morgan Shoal, a 300-million-year-old limestone structure, has been the site of several shipwrecks, including the Silver Spray. It is a unique geological feature and a popular spot for swimming and scuba diving.
These shipwrecks not only provide a glimpse into the maritime history of Lake Michigan but also offer exciting opportunities for scuba diving and exploration. Whether you’re a history buff or an adventure seeker, the watery graveyard of Lake Michigan near Chicago is sure to captivate and inspire.
References:
– Chicago’s Shipwrecks: Exploring the Underwater Treasures of Lake Michigan
– Shipwrecks Off Hyde Park
– Exploring Chicago’s Shipwrecks
– Chicago’s Shipwrecks: A Watery Graveyard
– Underwater Illinois: Shipwrecks and Submerged Cultural Resources