Minneapolis

The steamer Minneapolis began life as a passenger and package-freight steamer. First placed in service in 1873, she was converted to a freight-only steamer in 1888 by the removal of her upper deck cabins. On April 4, 1894 she was cut by ice and foundered in Lake Michigan. The location is just southwest of the Mackinac Bridge’s south tower in 124 feet of water. Her deck and engines can be reached at about 80 feet. Her bow is broken open and her stern has begun to come apart. Most of her main deck is collapsing. Divers can explore her engine and boiler and her deck equipment like her windlass. The rudder has detached from the hull and rests on the bottom. Game fish frequently inhabit the site. Currents can be very strong near the shipwreck. Lies in about 37.8 m; sank 1894.