Steamer Agnes W.
The wooden steamer Agnes W. began her life in 1887 as the Roswell P. Flower — briefly the largest wooden vessel on the Great Lakes. Built in Milwaukee, she spent her early career hauling bulk cargo like coal, iron ore, and grain, often towing schooner barges.
The Wreck
In 1915, she was renamed Agnes W. by her owner, Captain John D. Wanvig, in honor of his daughter. Three years later, while carrying grain from Fort William, Ontario, the vessel ran aground at Traverse Point on the south side of Drummond Island during a summer storm. Pounded by waves, the ship was lost — though thankfully, no lives were.
The Wreck Today
The Agnes W. lies in less than 15 feet of water, with only the lower hull remaining. The massive structure — approximately 180 feet by 35 feet — is accompanied by scattered artifacts, making it a rewarding site for divers, snorkelers, and kayakers. On calm days, parts of the wreck are visible from the surface.
- Built: 1887 · Milwaukee, WI
- Original Name: Roswell P. Flower
- Vessel Type: Wooden steamer, bulk freighter
- Cargo on Final Voyage: Grain
- Water Depth: Less than 15 feet
- Best For: Kayakers, snorkelers, divers & calm-day boat visits
