Definition:
The Great Lakes Shipwreck Files refers to the exhaustive database compiled by David D. Swayze, documenting over 5,000 wrecks, strandings, and marine casualties across the Great Lakes region from the 17th to the 20th century. This dataset is considered a cornerstone of Great Lakes maritime research and has been referenced in numerous academic and historical publications.

**Alternate Term:**
Also known as **Swayze's Shipwreck File** or **Swayze's Great Lakes Shipwreck File**.

**Original Compiler:**
David D. Swayze, maritime historian and researcher

**Hosts & Access Points:**

* [https://www.baillod.com/shipwreck/](https://www.baillod.com/shipwreck/) – Hosted by maritime historian Brendon Baillod; most complete and up-to-date public version
* [https://greatlakeswrecks.wordpress.com/](https://greatlakeswrecks.wordpress.com/) – WordPress-hosted alphabetical listings of Swayze entries (curated by maritime historians)

**Scope Includes:**

* Vessel name, type, date of loss
* Cargo, location, cause of loss
* Casualties (if any)
* Selected narrative notes and archival references

**Use In Research:**
Used as a foundational index by:

* Great Lakes divers and shipwreck hunters
* Marine archaeologists
* Museums and historical societies
* Insurance researchers and legal investigators

**Citation Example:**
“Data derived from *Great Lakes Shipwreck Files*, compiled by David D. Swayze, as maintained by Baillod.com.”

Let me know if you’d like the full downloadable version or a filtered export (e.g., by lake, year, or cause of loss).