Shipwreck Report: Unknown Submerged Wreck (Record #2376)

Identification & Site Information

Record Number: 2376
Vessel Name: Unknown (Unidentified wreck)
Registry: Not applicable
Type: Submerged vessel
Builder: Unknown
Year Built: Unknown
Hull Material: Unknown
Dimensions: Not determined
Location: Lake Superior, shoreline near Lat 46°45′32.2″ N, Long 88°27′31″ W
Coordinates: 46.75887, -88.458742 (verified 1981)
Depth: 6 ft (1.8 m) least depth by pole sounding
Condition: Dangerous submerged wreck
Date First Charted: 1936 revisory survey
Confirmed: 1981 NOAA survey CES14971

Vessel Type Description

This wreck remains unidentified. Likely a small craft or local vessel, it lies among shoreline ruins at shallow depth, partially obscured by shifting debris. Its proximity to shore and the absence of recorded specifications suggest it may have been a victim of grounding, storm loss, or intentional scuttling. No definitive structural details have been documented to establish origin or type.

Historical Survey Record

  • 1936: Charted as a visible wreck during Lake Superior revisory survey.
  • 1975: Status changed to “dangerous sunken wreck.”
  • 1981 (CES14971): Verified by NOAA hydrographic survey using R/AZ control; confirmed least depth of 6 ft (1.8 m) by pole sounding.

Final Disposition

The wreck remains charted as a hazardous obstruction. Its shallow depth and position within shoreline ruins pose risks for small craft navigation. No salvage operations or confirmed identification have been reported.

Significance

Though unidentified, Record #2376 reflects the importance of hydrographic surveys in documenting Lake Superior’s maritime hazards. The site may represent a locally significant loss — potentially a small trade or fishing vessel — and remains a candidate for future exploration and identification.

Future Exploration & Preservation

  • Advanced Imaging: Side-scan sonar and photogrammetry could reveal buried structure.
  • Archival Research: Comparison with local records of wrecks near Grand Marais / Munising coastlines.
  • Dive Assessment: Controlled professional diving survey to document surviving Hull or fittings.

NOAA / WHS Shipwreck Record Card

Wreck Name: Unknown vessel (Record #2376)
Other Names: None
Coordinates: 46.75887, -88.458742
Depth: 6 ft (1.8 m)
Location: Near shoreline ruins, Lake Superior
Vessel Type: Unknown
Material: Unknown
Year Sank: Unknown
Discovery: First charted 1936 revisory survey
Confirmed: NOAA survey CES14971, 1981
Condition: Dangerous submerged wreck, partially buried
Cause of Loss: Undetermined (possible storm, grounding, or scuttling)
Hazards: Shallow depth, submerged debris, dangerous to navigation
Permits Required: Yes — Michigan / U.S. jurisdictional waters

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The unidentified wreck of Record #2376 remains a shallow-water hazard and an enduring mystery of Lake Superior. While its origins and purpose remain unknown, the site underscores both the hazards of navigation and the untold maritime history preserved beneath Superior’s waters. Continued documentation and preservation ensure its dual role as a navigational warning and a cultural resource.

Keywords

#LakeSuperior #UnknownWreck #DangerousWreck #MaritimeHazard #GreatLakesShipwrecks #NOAASurvey #Hydrography