Launched in 1895, the Car Ferry #2 provided just over a decade of service on the Great Lakes before disaster struck in September 1906. While hauling a heavy cargo of railroad cars, iron ore, and lumber, the ferry was caught in a fierce gale just three miles from the Calumet Harbor Lighthouse near the entrance to Chicago.
As the storm raged, a massive amount of water accumulated in her hold, causing the vessel to sway and list dangerously. Even with the assistance of two tugboats attempting to right her, the ferry lurched and capsized, tragically taking six lives as she went down.
Although she measures an impressive 300 feet in length, this wreck can sometimes be challenging to locate. However, resting in just 40 feet of water, the Car Ferry #2 is a fantastic, shallow dive for entry-level explorers. We visit this fascinating site out of Hammond Marina.
