The Tragic Discovery of the Western Reserve Shipwreck

A steamship that was renowned for its speed and safety but met a tragic end during a leisure voyage has been found in Lake Superior, 132 years after it sank. The wreck of the vessel known as Western Reserve was located 60 miles northwest of Whitefish Point in Lake Superior.

The Western Reserve was a 300-foot all-steel cargo ship built for Captain Peter G. Minch, a prominent shipping magnate, in 1890. It was one of the first all-steel vessels on the Great Lakes and was designed to carry heavier loads than its wooden counterparts, making it a pioneer in the industry.

Despite its reputation as one of the safest ships afloat, the Western Reserve met its tragic fate in August 1892 during a leisure cruise with Minch and his family on board. A sudden gale in Lake Superior caused the ship to break apart and sink, resulting in the loss of 27 lives with only one survivor.

For years, the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society (GLSHS) had been searching for the wreck of the Western Reserve. In July last year, the Ertel brothers made the initial discovery using sonar technology aboard the research vessel David Boyd. Subsequent ROV deployments confirmed the identity of the shipwreck, revealing a broken ship lying in approximately 600 feet of water.

“Every shipwreck has its own story, but some are just that much more tragic,” said Bruce Lynn, GLSHS Executive Director. “The discovery of the Western Reserve serves as a reminder of the dangers of the Great Lakes, no matter the time of year.”

The Legacy of the Western Reserve

The Western Reserve was admired for its speed and capacity to break cargo shipping records. It was known as “the inland greyhound” for its impressive performance on the lakes. However, its tragic end highlighted the unpredictable and treacherous nature of Lake Superior.

The discovery of the Western Reserve adds to the list of over 550 undiscovered wrecks believed to be lying on the seabed of Lake Superior. Each wreck tells a unique story of triumph or tragedy, serving as a reminder of the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes.

Conclusion

The finding of the Western Reserve shipwreck sheds light on a forgotten chapter of Great Lakes history. Despite its short career, the vessel made a lasting impact on the shipping industry and serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers faced by sailors navigating the unpredictable waters of Lake Superior. The exploration and preservation of shipwrecks like the Western Reserve continue to uncover the mysteries of the past and honor the lives lost at sea.