Lake Michigan
Eber Ward.
Depth 112-140 ft/ length 213 ft/ launched 1888/ sunk on April 9, 1909 struck by ice.
This is one of my favorite wrecks of all
times. Definitely on the top 10, if not 5. For more complete story of my 2003 dives on it,
read my Northwind – Toby – Mackinac trip report
The highlights of the dive are numerous and include the unique mushroom anchor, hanging off the port side of the bow; several normal style anchors hanging from both sides and laying on the top deck; completely intact engine works with giant boiler spanning two decks; completely intact propeller; very unusual mechanical unloading equipment (on the sides of cargo hatches); and hand carts stored on each of her two inside decks. The top deck spots a toilet and bathtub. Visibility ranged from 20 to 60+ ft in my 4 dives on her in 5 years.
The hazards include: depth of 140 ft, making it a definite deco dive; occasional strong current (we did not encounter any) and the amount of silt inside the two decks – you can loose all visibility down there in a matter of seconds
Bow features anchors still on place, the capstan and the mushroom anchor on the port side near ice hole.
Ice hole that sunk the wreck
Stern still has rudder and propeller and numerous openings into the multi-level deck.
Engine and boilers from inside and out
Interesting unloading mechanisms
Handcarts and other items inside uppder deck
