Identification & Site Information:

  • Name: SUPERIOR (formerly MENTOR)
  • Other Names: MENTOR, Official Numbers U91378 (MENTOR) and 214461 (SUPERIOR)
  • Build Year & Location: 1881, Fort Howard, Wisconsin by Soren Anderson.
  • Measurements:
  • Original (MENTOR):
    • 118 ft (36 m) in length,
    • 26 ft (8 m) beam,
    • 9 ft (2.7 m) depth
    • 230 gross tons.
  • •Post-Rebuild (SUPERIOR):
    • 138 ft (42 m) in length,
    • 30.5 ft (9.3 m) beam
    • 8 ft (2.4 m) depth
    • 327 gross tons.
  • Service:
  • As MENTOR: Flat-bottomed single-mast sailing sloop.
  • Converted to Steamer in 1888.
  • Rebuilt as a sand Dredge in 1916.
  • Fate: Burned in 1929, now a wreck near DeTour Harbor, Lake Superior.
  • Vessel Type:
    • Originally a sailing scow sloop.
    • Converted to a Steamer in 1888.
    • Transformed into a sand Dredge in 1916.

Description:

The SUPERIOR began its life as the MENTOR, a scow sloop designed for shallow water and cargo transport. It underwent several transformations, becoming a Steamer in 1888 and later a sand Dredge in 1916 after being deemed unfit for further service. These changes reflected the evolving needs of its operators and advances in maritime technology.

The vessel ultimately met its demise in 1929 when it burned near the entrance to DeTour Harbor. Much of the upper structure has since been lost to fire, wave action, and human activity. The wreck, situated in shallow water, provides an opportunity to explore the remains of a vessel that saw diverse use over nearly five decades.

Final Dispositions:

The wreck lies south of the entrance to DeTour Harbor in water depths ranging from 0 to 15 ft (0 to 5 m). Only the bottom Hull structure and scattered artifacts, including a small winch in deeper water, remain visible.

Located By & Date Found:

Not documented as a specific rediscovery; its shallow location and partial exposure above water make it accessible and known to locals and visitors.

Notices & Advisories:

The wreck is easily accessible due to its shallow location and low water levels, but divers and visitors should exercise caution due to debris and potential instability of the remaining structure.

External Links:

Suggested Keywords:

SUPERIOR shipwreck, MENTOR scow sloop, DeTour Harbor wreck, Lake Superior Dredge history, sand Dredge shipwreck.