Steamer John W. Cullen

Built in 1883 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the John W. Cullen began her career as the George C. Markham, hauling lumber across the Great Lakes. She was converted to a sand dredge in 1914 and renamed John W. Cullen in 1923 after several changes of ownership.

The Wreck

The vessel eventually sank near Frying Pan Island at DeTour, Michigan. Purchased by local businessman T. L. Durocher with the intent of salvaging her, she was never raised and remains on the lake bottom today.

The Wreck Today

The wreck lies in 5–10 feet of water, just south of the Sainte Marie wreck and about 600 feet north of Frying Pan Island. The hull is largely intact, though all machinery — boiler, engine, and sand dredging equipment — has been salvaged. The shallow, protected location makes it an ideal site when weather prevents dives in more open waters.

---

• Built: 1883 · Milwaukee, WI
• Original Name: George C. Markham
• Vessel Type: Steamer / sand dredge / lumber carrier
• Water Depth: 5–10 feet
• Best For: Divers & sheltered, calm-water exploration