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 underwater archaeology by locating two of the three ships that sank during a devastating storm on Lake Superior over a century ago. The first ship, the **Henry B. Smith**, was discovered in 2021, while the second, the **David E. Allen**, was located in 2022. These discoveries not only shed light on the maritime history of the Great Lakes but also underscore the enduring impact of severe weather on the region’s shipping industry.
The storm that claimed these vessels occurred on November 27, 1920, and is remembered as one of the most ferocious in the history of Lake Superior. The tempest was so powerful that it resulted in the loss of multiple ships, including the **Henry B. Smith**, which was a wooden bulk freighter, and the **David E. Allen**, a steel freighter. The GLSHS utilized advanced underwater exploration technology and the expertise of marine archaeologists to locate these wrecks, which lay in depths of more than 200 feet. The findings have not only provided a glimpse into the tragic events of that fateful day but also offered opportunities for further research into the construction and operation of early 20th-century vessels.
The third ship, the **H.M. Murdock**, remains unfound, leaving a tantalizing mystery that encourages ongoing exploration of Lake Superior’s depths. The discoveries made by the GLSHS highlight the importance of preserving maritime heritage and the stories of those who navigated the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes. As the society continues its efforts, it aims to educate the public about the historical significance of these shipwrecks and the lessons they impart about the challenges of navigation and the unpredictable nature of the Great Lakes. The ongoing research and preservation efforts promise to contribute to a deeper understanding of the region’s rich maritime history, ensuring that the legacy of these lost vessels endures 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.
