Etruria
Vessel Type: Motor: bulk freighter
GPS Location: N45°28.981' W83°28.4198'
Depth: 317 feet
Wreck Length: 434 feet
Beam: 50 feet
Gross Tonnage: 4,744
Cargo: Coal
Launched: 1902 by West Bay City Shipbuilding Company in West Bay City, Michigan
Wrecked: June 18, 1905
Description: On June 18, 1905, a thick fog draped over Lake Huron as the 414-foot steamer Etruria sailed toward Lake Superior with a load of coal. Suddenly, 10 miles off Presque Isle, the steamer collided with the south-bound 545-foot Amasa Stone. Etruria sank in minutes. Although Amasa Stone did not remain on the scene to assist after the collision, Etruria's entire crew made it off the vessel safely and were rescued by another passing ship.
A lengthy investigation followed. Both captains fought to clear their names. Insurance companies argued about liability for the large claim filed by Etruria's owner. Ultimately, investigators concluded that Amasa Stone's speed was the primary cause for Etruria's sinking. Had it been traveling at a speed appropriate for the foggy weather, the collision could have been avoided, or the impact with Etruria would likely not have been substantial enough to sink the bulk carrier.
Etruria's final resting place was a mystery until 2011, when a research expedition called, “Project Shiphunt” sponsored by Sony & Intel Corporation and filmed by Radical Media led by Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and partners, and including five high school students from Saginaw, Michigan, located and identified the ship. The completely intact Etruria rests upside-down in nearly 310 feet of water.
