What's Happening?
A team led by Illinois shipwreck hunter Paul Ehorn has discovered the wreck of the Lac La Belle, a luxury steamer that sank in Lake Michigan over 150 years ago. The ship was found about 20 miles offshore between Racine and Kenosha, Wisconsin. The discovery
was announced by Shipwreck World, a group dedicated to locating shipwrecks globally. Ehorn, who has been searching for shipwrecks since he was 15, used a clue from fellow wreck hunter Ross Richardson to narrow down the search area. The Lac La Belle, built in 1864, sank in 1872 during a gale while carrying 53 passengers and crew, along with cargo. The ship's hull remains intact, though covered with quagga mussels, and its oak interiors are in good condition.
Why It's Important?
The discovery of the Lac La Belle is significant as it adds to the historical understanding of maritime activity on the Great Lakes, which are home to thousands of shipwrecks. This find highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve maritime history and the challenges posed by invasive species like quagga mussels, which threaten the integrity of underwater wrecks. The successful location of the Lac La Belle also underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in shipwreck hunting, as demonstrated by the use of side-scan sonar and shared knowledge among hunters. This discovery may inspire further exploration and preservation efforts in the Great Lakes region.
What's Next?
Following the discovery, there may be increased interest in exploring and documenting other shipwrecks in the Great Lakes. The condition of the Lac La Belle could provide insights into preservation techniques for other wrecks threatened by invasive species. Additionally, the find could lead to more collaborative efforts among shipwreck hunters and historians to uncover and preserve maritime history. The discovery may also attract attention from educational and historical institutions interested in studying the ship and its artifacts.
