Researchers Stumble Upon The Shipwreck Of A Tugboat That Sank In Lake Superior In 1879

Researchers have made a remarkable discovery in Lake Superior as they uncovered the long-lost shipwreck of the Satellite, a vessel that sank in 1879. The finding was made while researchers searched for missing World War I minesweepers, adding to the growing list of historic shipwrecks in Lake Superior’s vast expanse.

The Satellite met its tragic fate while towing four barges, encountering difficulties that led to its sinking. The exact cause of the incident remains a mystery, as it is unclear whether the ship suffered a mechanical malfunction or collided with an object in the lake, resulting in water ingress.

Video Credit: shipwreck museum

This discovery is even more extraordinary because the Satellite remained unseen for 142 years. Despite its demise, no casualties were reported among those aboard the ill-fated ship. However, there are no existing photographs of the Satellite; its visual depiction was extensively described in the press over a century ago.

According to the Shipwreck Society, the Satellite was renowned for its intricate and ornate cabin and upper structures, making it a unique vessel of its time. Such details were documented by the Detroit Press and Tribune, further fueling interest in the ship’s history.

Lake Superior, known as the “graveyard of the Great Lakes,” has claimed numerous ships throughout history. Among the approximately 10,000 shipwrecks in the Great Lakes, Lake Superior alone accounts for around 350 of them. This area is notorious for being a frequent site of maritime disasters.

The recent discovery of the Satellite adds to a series of notable finds in Lake Superior. Just a few months ago, researchers located the wreckage of two ships that vanished in 1914, shedding light on past events. In another significant find, the remains of a coal-carrying vessel that sank during a storm in 1891 were uncovered, offering valuable insights into maritime history.

In February, searchers made yet another intriguing discovery, retrieving a 144-foot shipwreck that had been lost for over 150 years. Dubbed the “Bad Luck Barquentine,” this finding adds another chapter to Lake Superior’s rich maritime history, showcasing this vessel’s unfortunate fate from the past.

These ongoing discoveries provide a fascinating glimpse into the past and contribute to a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded in Lake Superior over a century ago. The researchers’ relentless efforts to explore the lake’s depths and unravel its mysteries continue to captivate maritime enthusiasts and historians alike.

Reference: NY Times, CBS News, KFGO

Researchers Stumble Upon The Shipwreck Of A Tugboat That Sank In Lake Superior In 1879 appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News