These ships disappeared in Lake Superior a century ago. Watch as they’re found again
The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society (GLSHS) has achieved a remarkable milestone in maritime archaeology by discovering two of the three ships that sank during a devastating storm in Lake Superior over a century ago. This significant find began in 2021 when the society located the first ship, the **M. M. Drake**, which sank on November 28, 1905, during a fierce winter storm that claimed the lives of many sailors and wrecked multiple vessels. The discovery was made possible through advanced sonar technology and underwater exploration techniques, allowing the GLSHS to map the lakebed and identify the remnants of the ship, which had been lost to history for more than 116 years.
In 2022, the GLSHS continued its successful exploration by locating the second vessel, the **H. C. Houghton**, further illuminating the tragic events of that fateful storm. The H. C. Houghton was also caught in the storm’s violent winds and waves, succumbing to the treacherous conditions that defined that day in maritime history. The society’s efforts not only shed light on the stories of these lost ships but also contribute to the broader understanding of Great Lakes shipping and the challenges faced by mariners in the early 20th century. The ships’ locations have been documented, and the findings will play a crucial role in preserving the history of Lake Superior and the impact of natural disasters on maritime activities.
The ongoing search for the third ship, the **C. H. McCulloch**, continues to captivate historians and maritime enthusiasts alike, as the GLSHS aims to complete the narrative of this tragic event. The discoveries highlight the importance of preserving maritime heritage and the stories of those who lost their lives at sea. With each find, the GLSHS not only honors the memory of these sailors but also educates the public about the historical significance of Lake Superior’s shipwrecks. As the society continues its explorations, it invites collaboration and support from the community to further uncover the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJkrAQ6SSsw
The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society has found two of three ships that sank in the same Lake Superior storm more than a century ago, locating one in 2021 and the other in 2022.
