Smith Moore — Wooden Steam Barge 1880-1889 (SHIPWRECK)

Smith Moore was an early wooden steam barge launched in 1880 is perhaps the best known shipwreck in the Preserve. She was damaged in a collision on July 13, 1889 on Lake Superior and lost while in tow next to Grand Island. She rests now in 70 to 105 feet of water although the deck is reached at 80 feet. Exploring divers will find much machinery as well as game fish on the wreck. Open deck hatches afford access to the interior.

Location: 46 27.33’N 086 37.06’W

Shipwreck Tours – Glass Bottom Boat
 

Interesting Link – Alger Underwater Preserve

For ships in trouble on the long southern coast of Lake Superior, harbors of refuge are few. Munising is one of them. The waters off Munising are sheltered by Grand Island and have been the final destination of many ships seeking safe harbor from the fury of the big lake. The area stretching from just west of Munising to Au Sable Point and including the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is the home of the Alger Underwater Preserve. Several major shipwrecks lying within recreational diving limits are found inside its boundaries.

All content the property of Brendon Baillod and Great Lakes Shipwreck Research & Alger Underwater Preserve. Photography there property of Mark Ruth – Photographer

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