UASC Surveys Mystery Wreck UASC spent much of the summer of 2017 engaged in survey work on the “Mystery Wreck” to see if we can get any closer to identifying it. While this boat had been known about for several years, recent publication of its location in a local diving guide, prompted UASC to prioritize this survey. The “Mystery Wreck” is located about 7 miles north of the Hammond Marina, just inside Illinois waters. With support from Double Action Dive Charters, UASC members were able to conduct survey work over several Sunday afternoon trips out to the wreck. Measurements, photos, and video were all taken. The boat is 152’ long and 31’ abeam. What makes this wreck unique is its general shape and the heavy timbers used in its construction. What appears to be the bow of the boat narrows to a vertical stem. The stern comes to an abrupt end, neatly squared off, with no sign of a transom.
There is a main keelson running the length of the wreck with two sister keelsons on either side of it. There are eighteen, 12 inch square crossbeams, longitudinally spaced, approximately 7 feet apart. These beams begin at 28 feet from the bow. The boat is largely intact, with frames and ceiling planks in place. We have not yet determined whether this vessel had been burned. Burning was often done to purposely scuttle derelict watercraft which had no salvage value. It is ironic that this became a way for many of these old boats to be preserved. There is no sign of a centerboard trunk and no sign of any other means of propulsion. Neither machinery nor supports for machinery are evident. Our best estimate at this point is that this vessel was used as a barge. Exactly what it carried is currently unknown. Evidence seems to indicate that it was something quite heavy, since it required such robust reinforcement. We will be conducting offsite historical research and additional dives in the 2018 season to further analyze our “mystery”. This boat is a great place for new members to obtain some hands on experience in wreck survey techniques. Due to its relatively shallow depth at 50 feet, it permits reasonable bottom times to get work accomplished. This site could also be a good location to learn other skills, such as ROV navigation, which we plan to create an opportunity for in 2018. Stay tuned to our website for updates.