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In the frigid waters of Lake Superior, the final resting place of a 1940s merchant ship, the Arlington, has been found. The discovery was made off the coast of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, near WHITEFISH POINT, by the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society alongside researcher Dan Fountain.
According to the announcement on Monday, the bulk carrier Arlington was located around 650 feet (200 meters) below the surface, approximately 35 miles (60 kilometers) north of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula.
The vessel set sail from Port Arthur, Ontario on April 30, 1940, loaded with wheat and destined for Owen Sound, Ontario. Its journey was led by Captain Frederick “Tatey Bug” Burke, who had vast experience on the Great Lakes.
The Arlington’s final voyage was shared with the freighter Collingwood; however, they were soon enveloped in heavy fog and a subsequent storm that significantly challenged their endurance. Despite taking on water, a fateful decision by Captain Burke to steer away from the shelter of the Canadian North Shore anticipated the Arlington’s demise.
The crisis culminated in the early hours of May 1, 1940, with the chief engineer signaling distress. The crew, driven by the fear of sinking, started to vacate the vessel without Captain Burke’s command.
Every crew member made it to the Collingwood safely, with the exception of Captain Burke, who remained on the Arlington as it descended into the abyss, casting a farewell gesture towards the Collingwood.
The society expressed that the motives behind Captain Burke’s final actions are a mystery. Fountain hoped that this discovery might bring some closure to the family of the late captain.
The identification of the Arlington results from dedicated efforts by Fountain, a Negaunee, Michigan resident, who has spent approximately ten years searching Lake Superior’s depths for shipwrecks, noted Bruce Lynn, the executive director of the shipwreck society. After being approached with a “potential target” near the Keweenaw Peninsula by Fountain, the society participated in the subsequent expedition that led to the Arlington’s discovery in the previous year.
Despite the uncertainty that often accompanies such targets, in this instance, they revealed a tangible and historically significant shipwreck. Their teamwork emphasized the importance of collaboration in uncovering such maritime mysteries, remarked Lynn.
FAQs
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What was the name of the ship that sank in Lake Superior in 1940?
The name of the ship was the Arlington.
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How deep is the Arlington located in Lake Superior?
The Arlington is in about 650 feet (200 meters) of water.
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Did any crew members survive the sinking of the Arlington?
Yes, all crew members except for Captain Burke survived by making it onto another freighter, the Collingwood.
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Who discovered the wreck of the Arlington?
The discovery was made by the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society along with shipwreck researcher Dan Fountain.
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Why did the ship sink?
The Arlington sank due to a storm after it began taking on water, aggravated by Captain Burke’s decisions during the crisis.
Conclusion
The discovery of the Arlington, a merchant ship that succumbed to Lake Superior’s harsh weather in 1940, illustrates the persistent allure and historical significance of shipwrecks within the Great Lakes. This find, a result of dedication and expertise, not only adds to the maritime history but also offers a somber reminder of the perils faced by those who ventured across these waters. Investigations like this serve as poignant memorials for the vessels and crew that met tragic ends, preserving their stories for future generations.