The recent discovery of a sunken merchant ship in Lake Superior, resting undisturbed since its demise in 1940, has captured the attention of maritime enthusiasts and historians alike. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society, in collaboration with shipwreck researcher Dan Fountain, made the announcement, unveiling the remarkable find of the bulk carrier Arlington. This vessel, measuring 244 feet in length, was located over 600 feet beneath the surface of Lake Superior, approximately 35 miles north of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula.
The uncovering of the Arlington was the result of extensive research and investigation, spanning a decade of meticulous study by Fountain, who had been scrutinizing remote sensing data in pursuit of submerged relics within Lake Superior’s depths. Upon encountering a promising anomaly in the data, Fountain sought the expertise of the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society to confirm the potential discovery. In 2023, utilizing marine sonic technology side-scan sonar aboard the R/V David Boyd, Fountain, along with Darryl Ertel, the historical society’s marine operations director, successfully identified the sunken vessel as the long-lost Arlington.
The Arlington’s tragic demise dates back to April 30, 1940, when it departed Port Arthur, Ontario, under the command of Captain Frederick “Tatey Bug” Burke, a seasoned veteran of the Great Lakes. Laden with a cargo of wheat bound for Owen Sound, Ontario, the vessel encountered dense fog as it traversed Lake Superior alongside a larger freighter, the Collingwood. The situation escalated as the fog transformed into a fierce storm, subjecting both vessels to relentless battering from wind and waves.
Amidst the turmoil, conflicting orders were issued regarding the vessel’s course. Despite the first mate’s directive to seek refuge along the Canadian north shore, Captain Burke opted to maintain their original trajectory across the open waters of the lake. Tragically, in the early hours of May 1, 1940, the Arlington succumbed to the elements, succumbing to the frigid depths of Lake Superior. Chief engineer Fred Gilbert sounded the alarm, prompting the crew to abandon ship. While most crew members managed to safely transfer to the Collingwood, Captain Burke remained steadfast aboard the sinking vessel, ultimately perishing as it plunged into the abyss.
The discovery of the Arlington serves as a poignant reminder of the perils faced by mariners navigating the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes. Dan Fountain expressed a sense of closure in solving yet another of Lake Superior’s mysteries, hoping that the revelation of the Arlington’s resting place would offer solace to Captain Burke’s family.
This recent finding adds to a series of intriguing discoveries within the Great Lakes region. Earlier instances include the potential sighting of a hidden shipwreck in Lake Erie, uncovered by abnormally low water levels caused by a blizzard-induced seiche. Similarly, in Lake Michigan, a 150-year-old shipwreck, identified as the George L. Newman, was spotted by a father and daughter duo during a leisurely boating excursion. The Wisconsin Historical Society confirmed their remarkable find, shedding light on a long-forgotten chapter of maritime history.
The unearthing of these submerged relics underscores the enduring allure of maritime exploration and the rich tapestry of stories woven within the Great Lakes’ depths. As researchers continue to unravel the secrets hidden beneath these vast waters, each discovery serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of adventure and the enduring legacy of those who braved the waters of the Great Lakes.