The remarkable tale of the SS Arlington’s tragic fate resurfaces from the depths of Lake Superior
In a remarkable discovery that echoes with echoes of the past, shipwreck hunters have unearthed a haunting relic from the depths of Lake Superior—the sunken remains of the SS Arlington, a vessel lost to the unforgiving waters nearly eight decades ago.
Led by the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society (GLSHS) and renowned shipwreck researcher Dan Fountain, the expedition unveiled the long-lost shipwreck resting in the murky depths, approximately 35 miles north of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula.
The Arlington’s tragic saga dates back to April 1940, when the 244-foot bulk carrier embarked on a fateful journey laden with wheat, under the command of Captain Frederick ‘Tatey Bug’ Burke. Battling dense fog and fierce storms, the vessel, along with its companion, the Collingwood, encountered perilous conditions that would seal its fate.
Despite ominous warnings, the Arlington pressed on, veering from its intended course across Lake Superior. In the early hours of May 1st, 1940, tragedy struck as the vessel began to list, prompting a frantic scramble for survival among the crew.
Amidst the chaos, Chief Engineer Fred Gilbert sounded the alarm, signalling the impending disaster as the Arlington succumbed to the relentless embrace of the lake’s depths. In a poignant display of valour, the majority of the crew managed to escape to safety aboard the Collingwood, yet Captain Burke, steadfast in his duty, chose to go down with his ship.
As the Arlington vanished beneath the waves, Captain Burke’s fate became shrouded in mystery, with questions lingering about his final moments and the enigmatic circumstances surrounding his demise.
For decades, the Arlington lay hidden beneath the tranquil surface of Lake Superior, its secrets preserved in the watery abyss, until the diligent efforts of the GLSHS and Dan Fountain brought its tragic tale to light once more.
Reflecting on the significance of the discovery, GLSHS Executive Director Bruce Lynn emphasized the importance of teamwork and collaboration in unravelling the mysteries of the past. Through the tireless dedication of individuals like Dan Fountain, the Arlington’s story has been resurrected, offering a poignant reminder of the enduring power of history and the timeless allure of the deep.
As the echoes of the Arlington’s tragedy resound across Lake Superior, its legacy serves as a solemn tribute to those who perished amidst the tempestuous waves, immortalized in the annals of maritime history for generations to come.
