Lake Name: Lake Huron
Shipwreck Name: Monohansett
Vessel Type: Wooden Steam Barge
Location: Thunder Bay, MI
Vessel Build Info: 1872, J. Craig, Gibraltar, MI
Shipwreck Specs: 165x32x9, 573g 451n
Official Number: 100156
Names Other: built as propeller IRA H. OWEN, renamed, 1882
Sinking Detail
Built as the double-decked bulk freighter Ira H. Owen, the ship was rechristened Monohansett in 1882. Ten years later, it was rebuilt as a single-decked lumber carrier. On November 23, 1907, the ship burned to the water’s edge at Thunder Bay Island. Most of the crew lost their personal belongings and some suffered minor burns, but there was no loss of life because the ship was near the island’s Life Saving Station.
Loss Date: 11/23/1907
Loss Place: 0.5 mi W of Thunder Bay Isl. light
Loss Life: None
Loss Reason: Fire
Vessel Cargo: Coal
Shipwreck Description
Today, the Monohansett’s wreck lies in three sections. The stern portion has hull features, propeller, and shaft all in place, and the boiler is nearby. On a nice calm day is is a great snorkeling spot.
Dive Type: Recreational
Depth Deck(ft): 18 ft
Depth Bottom(ft): 18 ft
Depth Deck(m): 5 m
Depth Bottom(m): 5 m