Lost Ship James Carruthers Found After 112 Years
The wreck of the James Carruthers, a freighter that sank in Lake Huron during the Great Storm of 1913, has finally been located after more than a century of mystery. Discovered by shipwreck hunter David Trotter and his team, the ship lies upside down at a depth of 190 feet, approximately 20 miles from Harbor Beach, Michigan. This significant find not only sheds light on the ship’s tragic fate but also honors the memory of the crew members who perished in the storm.
Discovery of the Wreck
On May 26, 2025, Trotter’s team made a breakthrough in their five-year search for the James Carruthers. They identified a submerged object that matched the dimensions of the freighter, which was the largest of the 13 ships lost during the storm. Following this initial discovery, the team returned to the site on July 27, equipped with divers and a remotely operated vehicle to investigate further. Upon reaching the wreck, divers encountered a cloudy substance emanating from the ship’s hold, which was later identified as fermenting grain—the last cargo loaded onto the Carruthers before its ill-fated voyage.
The ship’s discovery is a culmination of Trotter’s 40 years of experience in locating shipwrecks, during which he has found over 100 wrecks, including three from the Great Storm. The James Carruthers was one of eight vessels lost in Lake Huron during this catastrophic event, which claimed the lives of 178 sailors. The storm, known as the Great Storm of 1913, is remembered as one of the most destructive natural disasters in the history of the Great Lakes.
Historical Context and Legacy
The James Carruthers was launched on May 22, 1913, in Collingwood, Ontario, marking a significant achievement in shipbuilding as it was the largest Canadian ship at the time. The vessel was designed with modern amenities and luxurious accommodations, reflecting the pride of its builders. Tragically, the Carruthers met its fate just months after its launch, succumbing to the fierce winds and waves of the Great Storm.
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During the storm, the Lake Carriers’ Association reported the loss of 13 ships, with the Carruthers being one of the most notable. Of its 19 crew members, two hailed from Collingwood: Joseph Sampson and William Buckley. Sampson’s body was eventually recovered and returned to his hometown, while Buckley’s fate remains less documented. The storm’s toll on the community was profound, with many families losing loved ones, and memorials have since been established to honor those who perished.
The recent discovery of the Carruthers not only provides closure to a long-standing mystery but also serves as a reminder of the human cost associated with maritime disasters. As the community reflects on this significant find, it hopes to honor the memories of those lost in the storm and preserve the legacy of the James Carruthers for future generations.
