The waters of Lake Michigan hide more than just fish and flora; beneath the waves lies a wealth of history in the form of shipwrecks. From the bustling days of shipping schooners and freighters to the quieter eras marked by tragedy and loss, these shipwrecks serve as underwater museums, reminding us of the past. Along the shores of Leelanau County, MI you can find pieces of this fascinating history, with laws and dedicated organizations working to preserve these relics.

The Maritime Graveyard of Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan’s depths are said to hold over 1,500 shipwrecks, with many clustered in the Manitou Passage, a once-busy shipping route just off Leelanau County’s coast. This stretch of water has been both a path of prosperity and a place of loss for numerous vessels, from the iconic Rising Sun, Three Brothers, to the only Lake Michigan shipwreck that regularly sits above the waterline, Francisco Morazan. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum estimates that 30,000 lives have been lost on the Great Lakes. As final resting places for sailors lost to the depths, these underwater sites hold both historical and personal significance, reminding us to approach them with respect and reverence for those who never returned.

While some ships rest quietly on the lake’s floor, others have, over time, washed pieces of themselves ashore. Each one of these wrecks tells a unique story, woven together by tales of storms, survival, rescue, and the lake’s unforgiving waters.

Protecting Our Maritime Heritage: Shipwreck Laws

Shipwrecks and remnants like old docks and pilings are protected cultural resources, governed by state and federal laws. These rules are meant to preserve these underwater sites and ensure they remain as they are—open for research, but undisturbed by treasure hunting or illegal salvaging. Here’s a breakdown of the key protections:

1. Michigan Underwater Preserve System Act (1980): This act set up a series of underwater preserves, including the Manitou Passage Underwater Preserve. These preserves create areas of Lake Michigan dedicated to protecting shipwrecks and submerged historical sites. They allow for safe exploration and diving, but any removal or disturbance of these sites is prohibited without special permits.
2. Abandoned Shipwreck Act (1987): This federal law declares shipwrecks located in state waters and those washed ashore, as protected property, managed by the state and intended to be part of our shared heritage. Unauthorized removal or disturbance of these wrecks is illegal, and divers and beachgoers are encouraged to enjoy these sites respectfully.
3. Salvage Laws: These laws prohibit the unauthorized collection of wreckage pieces. Divers need special permits to recover any artifacts, ensuring that these historical sites remain intact.
   
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Types of Shipwrecks: Shore Wrecks vs. Sunk Wrecks

Shipwrecks in Lake Michigan generally fall into two categories: shore wrecks and sunk wrecks.

• Shore Wrecks: When ships wreck close to shore, they may eventually wash up on the beach, get buried in sand, or lie in shallow waters. Sometimes, pieces of wood, metal, or even cargo emerge on shorelines years after the wreck. These shore wrecks often involved survivors, lighthouses, or life-saving stations, whose accounts have helped paint a picture of the events that led to their demise.
• Sunk Wrecks: Many other wrecks lie far below the lake’s surface, often out of reach except for specialized divers with sonar equipment. Sunk wrecks remain more intact than shore wrecks and can offer a greater variety of historical information. These wrecks are more challenging to explore but hold clues about the region’s maritime history.

Uncovering History Beneath the Waves

Every shipwreck has unique characteristics that make it identifiable. Historians and underwater archaeologists piece together these stories by examining key elements, including:

• Location: Historical accounts, weather patterns, survivor stories, debris field, and last-known sightings help experts pinpoint a shipwreck’s potential resting place. Knowing the general area can also explain why certain wreckage pieces wash up along Leelanau County’s shores.
• Materials/Construction: The type of wood, metal, and hardware in the wreck tell us a lot about the ship’s origin. Ships from different periods used specific materials and construction methods, so by examining these elements, archaeologists can estimate the ship’s age and purpose.
• Vessel Type: The body style, number of masts, and propulsion system—whether powered by wind or steam engine—help identify the type of vessel. Each type, such as a steamer or schooner, has unique characteristics that reflect its purpose and the era of its construction.
• Cargo: The type of cargo a ship carried is often essential in determining its identity. For instance, the Supply, carried bricks, that are still visible on and around the wreck—helped experts to identify it.

Get Involved in Shipwreck Preservation

Leelanau County offers residents and visitors alike a chance to participate in preserving its maritime history. Here are ways you can help:

• Report Finds: If you come across any washed-up shipwreck fragments, report them. Michigan’s Beach Wreckage Recording Form is a resource where you can document finds. This helps historians, and the State of Michigan Underwater Archeologist keep track of where pieces surface, preserving them for research rather than collection.
• Explore Responsibly: Dive within the Manitou Passage Underwater Preserve to see wrecks firsthand, but remember the diver’s motto: “Take only pictures, leave only bubbles.” Shipwrecks are protected, so explore with care and respect. 
• Learn More: The Michigan Underwater Preserve Council and Michigan State Historic Preservation Office, and regional historical societies and museums offer resources and educational materials on Lake Michigan shipwrecks. Exploring these can deepen your appreciation of the Great Lakes’ underwater heritage.
• Maritime Exhibits & Educators: There are numerous individuals and organizations that offer tours, exhibits, lectures, and unique opportunities to learn about Lake Michigan’s maritime and shipwreck history. To learn more check out the following resources:

Together, We Preserve History

Lake Michigan’s shipwrecks are more than just historical artifacts; they’re stories of bravery, commerce, and human spirit preserved in the lake’s depths. As we learn more and work together to protect these sites, we’re honoring the lives and histories connected to each ship. Whether you’re a curious local or a visiting explorer, Leelanau County’s shores offer a chance to connect with history in a truly unique way.

Lake Michigan is just one of five freshwater lakes that make up the Great Lakes. Check out these resources that share the story of its rich maritime history, from historic shipwrecks to the bustling ports that shaped the region.

Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center
Michigan Maritime Museum
Association for Great Lakes Maritime History
National Museum of the Great Lakes
Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
Great Lakes Fisheries Heritage Trail
Port of Ludington Maritime Museum
S.S. City of Milwaukee and USCGC Acacia
Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum
Huron Lightship Museum
Wisconsin Maritime Museum