A team of maritime experts has recently discovered the long-lost shipwreck of the John Evenson in Lake Michigan, nearly 130 years after it sank. The Wisconsin Historical Society (WHS) announced the find in a Facebook post, attributing the discovery to maritime historians Brendon Baillod and Robert Jaeck. The shipwreck was located 42 feet below the surface after using historical accounts and sonar images to pinpoint its location. The John Evenson, a tugboat built in 1884, was originally used for locating and salvaging wrecked ships, towing vessels, breaking ice, and assisting stranded ships.
On the day of the shipwreck in June 1895, the John Evenson was sailing after receiving repairs when its captain decided to return to work. While waiting outside the Sturgeon Bay Ship canal for a vessel in need of a tow, the tugboat crossed paths with the steambarge I. Watson Stephenson. The Stephenson collided with the Evenson, causing it to capsize and sink in just three minutes. Four out of the five crew members on board were able to escape, but tragically, the ship’s engineer lost his life in the incident. Although his remains were found about a month later, they are not associated with the shipwreck site.
Previous attempts to locate the John Evenson shipwreck had been unsuccessful, with the ship’s owners eventually abandoning their mission due to insurance concerns. The owners had surrendered the tugboat as a total loss and received an insurance payout, making any salvage efforts risky. If the Laurie Brothers, the ship’s owners, had managed to raise the ship, the insurance underwriters could have claimed ownership. As a result, the John Evenson was left on the bottom of Lake Michigan.
The discovery of the John Evenson shipwreck sheds light on the maritime history of Lake Michigan and adds to the list of sunken vessels that have been found in the area. The tugboat’s role in towing vessels, breaking ice, and assisting ships in distress provides insight into the shipping industry of the late 19th century. The tragic sinking of the John Evenson serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by sailors and crew members navigating the Great Lakes, even in relatively calm conditions.
The historical significance of the John Evenson shipwreck lies in its connection to the maritime activities of the late 19th century and the risks faced by those working on the Great Lakes. The discovery of the sunken tugboat adds to the understanding of the challenges and dangers encountered by sailors and crew members during this period. The efforts of maritime historians in locating the wreck and piecing together its history highlight the importance of preserving and studying maritime heritage. The story of the John Evenson serves as a testament to the resilience and courage of those who worked on the waters of Lake Michigan and navigated its treacherous conditions.
The John Evenson shipwreck discovery is a testament to the dedication and expertise of maritime historians and archaeologists in uncovering the secrets hidden beneath Lake Michigan’s waters. By using historical records, sonar imaging, and research, the team was able to locate and identify the long-lost tugboat, providing valuable insights into its history and tragic end. The John Evenson serves as a poignant reminder of the risks and challenges faced by sailors and crew members on the Great Lakes, preserving the memory of those who lost their lives in the maritime industry. The discovery of the John Evenson shipwreck adds to the rich tapestry of maritime history in Lake Michigan and underscores the importance of honoring and preserving the legacy of those who worked on its waters.
