SS Emperor – Bulk Freighter Sinking at Canoe Rocks (1947)

Identification & Site Information

  • Name: SS Emperor
  • Former Names: None
  • Registration Number(s): Canadian Official No. 126654
  • Date Built and Launched: Built between 1910 and April 1911; entered service on May 3, 1911
  • Measurements: Approximately 160 metres (525 feet) in length
  • Date Lost: June 4, 1947
  • Location: Canoe Rocks, northeast point of Isle Royale, Lake Superior

Vessel Type

Bulk Freighter

Description

The SS Emperor was a steel-hulled Canadian lake freighter constructed by the Collingwood Shipbuilding Company in Collingwood, Ontario. Designed for bulk cargo transport, she primarily carried iron ore, coal, and grain across the Great Lakes. At 160 metres (525 feet) in length, the Emperor was among the larger freighters of her time, reflecting the early 20th-century trend toward larger cargo vessels to meet the growing demands of industrial transport.

History

On June 3, 1947, after unloading coal in Fort William, Ontario, the Emperor proceeded to Port Arthur (now part of Thunder Bay), where she loaded approximately 10,264 long tons (10,429 metric tonnes) of iron ore from the Steep Rock Mine. Departing at 10:55 p.m. EST, bound for Ashtabula, Ohio, the vessel encountered clear weather with good Visibility. Captain Eldon Walkinshaw handed over the watch to First Mate James A. Morrey at midnight.

Shortly before 4:15 a.m. on June 4, the Emperor struck Canoe Rocks at the northeast point of Isle Royale. The impact caused the vessel to break in two and sink within 20 to 35 minutes. Of the 33 crew members aboard, 12 lost their lives, including Captain Walkinshaw and First Mate Morrey. The United States Coast Guard Cutter Kimball responded promptly, rescuing 21 survivors and recovering the body of the cook, Evelyn Schultz.

An investigation attributed the accident to First Mate Morrey’s likely fatigue, as he had supervised the loading of the iron ore shortly before his watch, leading to inadequate navigational checks. The helmsman, unfamiliar with the area, also failed to detect the course error. The inquiry highlighted the detrimental effects of crew fatigue and the need for proper rest periods.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the Emperor rests in Lake Superior near Canoe Rocks. The bow lies in shallow water, while the Stern is in deeper water, remaining largely intact. The site has become a popular destination for recreational divers, offering a glimpse into Great Lakes maritime history.

Located By & Date Found

The wreck was first dived on June 12, 1947, shortly after the sinking. Over the years, it has been extensively explored by divers and researchers.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners or navigational advisories related to the Emperor‘s wreck site. However, divers should exercise caution due to varying depths and potential hazards associated with exploring shipwrecks.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The sinking of the SS Emperor serves as a poignant reminder of the perils faced by Great Lakes mariners. The incident underscores the critical importance of adequate rest for crew members and meticulous navigational practices. Today, the Emperor‘s wreck stands as a historical site, offering insights into the region’s maritime heritage and serving as a solemn memorial to those who lost their lives.

3D Model

Emperor by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Keywords and Categories

  • Keywords: SS Emperor, Lake Superior, Canoe Rocks, Isle Royale, shipwreck, iron ore freighter, 1947, maritime disaster
  • Categories: Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime History, Bulk Freighters, Nautical Accidents

Glossary Terms

  • Bulk Freighter: A large vessel designed to transport unpackaged bulk cargo, such as iron ore, coal, or grain.
  • Canoe Rocks: A hazardous reef located at the northeast point of Isle Royale in Lake Superior, known for causing shipwrecks.
  • Isle Royale: The largest island in Lake Superior, part of the U.S. state of Michigan, and the site of several notable shipwrecks.