George H. Ely
Built in 1871 in Port Huron, Michigan, the George H. Ely was a large schooner barge designed to haul bulk cargo — coal, iron ore, and grain. For much of her working life, she was towed by the steamer H. B. Tuttle, moving freight between ports on Lakes Erie and Superior during the height of Great Lakes shipping.
The Wreck
In October of 1882, the H. B. Tuttle and her tow entered Detour Passage bound for Portage, Michigan. While navigating the channel, the steamer ran onto Detour Shoal and managed to slide free with little damage. The George H. Ely was not as fortunate. Hung broadside on the reef, she was battered by heavy seas and could not be freed.
After repeated but unsuccessful salvage attempts, the vessel was declared a total loss in early November of 1882. Much of the wreck was later dismantled during efforts to recover the cargo.
The Wreck Today
The remains of the George H. Ely lie scattered in 15–20 feet of water in a small bay just north of Detour Shoal. Sections of the hull, along with portions of the bow and stern, can still be found spread across the lakebed — offering a glimpse into the challenges of 19th-century navigation through the passage.
- Built: 1871 · Port Huron, MI
- Vessel Type: Schooner barge
- Cargo: Coal
- Location: Detour Shoal, west side of Detour Passage
- Water Depth: 15–20 feet
- Best For: Experienced snorkelers & divers · boat access
