SS Ohio

lost in a collision in 1894 with the Ironton, the Ohio is a classic wooden bulk freighter that was located in 2017 resting just over 90 m/ 300 ft deep in Lake Huron. beautifully preserved, listing to starboard with intact wheelhouse and massive double wheel within. it’s a challenging dive, but so worth the effort.

the Ohio was carrying a full cargo of grain from Duluth Minnesota to the lower lakes on her final voyage. its course took her across the entire width of Lake Superior, down the Saint Mary’s River and into the steel blue waters of Lake Huron. nearing Presque Isle Michigan, an area notorious for rough weather and busy shipping lanes, they encountered the steamer Kershaw that was towing two schooners: the Moonlight and Ironton. in a case of the worst possible timing ever, the tow line separated when the ships were directly opposite each other, causing the Ironton to crash into the side of the Ohio. as the two ships were pulled apart by the wind and waves, water poured into the breach. the captain of the Ohio realized his ship was mortally wounded and ordered the crew to lower lifeboats and abandon ship. thirty minutes later, Lake Huron added two more vessels to her private collection.