These ships disappeared in Lake Superior a century ago. Watch as they’re found again
The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society (GLSHS) has made significant strides in maritime archaeology by locating two of the three ships that sank during a devastating storm on Lake Superior over a century ago. This remarkable discovery not only sheds light on the treacherous conditions of Great Lakes navigation in the late 19th century but also highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve and honor the history of shipwrecks in this region. The first ship was found in 2021, identified as the *Henry B. Smith*, a freighter that met its fate on November 10, 1913, during one of the most infamous storms in the area, often referred to as the “Big Blow.” The *Henry B. Smith* was a 250-foot vessel that was carrying a cargo of timber when it sank, taking with it the lives of its crew and leaving a haunting legacy in the annals of maritime history.
The second ship, discovered in 2022, is the *M. J. Dignum*, another freighter that succumbed to the same storm. The GLSHS utilized advanced sonar technology and underwater robotics to locate these shipwrecks, which lie in depths that make them inaccessible to traditional diving methods. The findings are not only a triumph for the society but also serve as a poignant reminder of the perilous nature of Great Lakes shipping during that era. The storm that claimed these vessels was part of a larger weather system that wreaked havoc across the region, leading to the loss of over a dozen ships and numerous lives. The discovery of the *M. J. Dignum* has provided valuable insights into the construction and operational practices of early 20th-century maritime vessels, as well as the environmental conditions that contributed to their demise.
As the GLSHS continues its mission to explore and document the maritime history of the Great Lakes, these discoveries underscore the importance of preserving underwater cultural heritage. The society plans to conduct further research on these shipwrecks, which can offer invaluable information about the maritime industry of the past, including shipbuilding techniques and the economic factors that affected shipping routes. Additionally, the public can engage with this history through educational programs and exhibitions that highlight the significance of these shipwrecks, fostering a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by sailors and the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve their stories. The successful identification of the *Henry B. Smith* and the *M. J. Dignum* serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of maritime exploration and the commitment of organizations like the GLSHS to keep these historic narratives alive for future generations.
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.
