The sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald remains one of the most infamous maritime tragedies in the history of the Great Lakes. Fifty years after the event, the legacy of this ship continues to resonate deeply, especially in Milwaukee, where connections to the ship and its crew are still remembered.
The Tragic Event of November 10, 1975
On November 10, 1975, the Edmund Fitzgerald sank in Lake Superior during a fierce storm known as the “Witch of November.” Captain Ernest McSorley and his 29-member crew battled 35-foot waves and blinding snow. Just before the ship went down, McSorley reported, “We are holding our own.” However, within 15 minutes, the ship was lost, and no distress signal was ever sent.
Legacy and Commemoration
The crew’s memory is preserved through various means, including a yearly ceremony held on November 10. The Fitzgerald’s original ship’s bell, recovered from the wreck in 1995, sounds 30 times annually—29 times to honor the lost crew and once for all sailors who have perished in the Great Lakes.
- Date of sinking: November 10, 1975
- Location: Lake Superior, 17 miles northwest of Whitefish Point, Michigan
- Length of ship: 729 feet
- Number of crew: 29 men
Investigating the Causes
The exact reasons behind the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald remain a subject of debate. Two major federal investigations were conducted—one by the U.S. Coast Guard and another by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The investigations suggested that massive flooding due to the failure of hatch covers was a probable cause.
Impact on Families and Communities
The tragedy impacted numerous families and communities, creating a widespread emotional toll. Many of the crew members were fathers, sons, and brothers, forever altering their families’ lives. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum highlights this deep connection to the families of the crew.
Improvements in Maritime Safety
Since the sinking, advancements in weather forecasting and marine safety have greatly reduced the likelihood of similar tragedies. Today’s vessels are equipped with better technology, making it less likely that a ship would venture into dangerous conditions without adequate warnings.
Protected Site
The wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, designated a protected site under the Ontario Heritage Act, is off-limits for unauthorized dives. This step aims to preserve the site as a marine archaeological and grave site, acknowledging the respect owed to those who lost their lives.
As we reflect on the Edmund Fitzgerald tragedy, it is clear that its legacy will endure, reminding us of the human spirit’s resilience in the face of nature’s fury.
