The Great Lakes are an incredibly important geographic feature of not just North America but also the entire world. After all, they are the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world, and they contain 84% of North America’s surface fresh water, too. However, underneath all those academic considerations, the Great Lakes are also host to a myriad of unexplained mysteries that are sure to send shivers up every boater’s spine. Continue reading to learn more!
The Lake Michigan Triangle
As the name suggests, the Lake Michigan Triangle is an area stretching from Ludington to Benton Harbor, Michigan and to Manitowoc, Wisconsin with a history of disappearances like the Bermuda Triangle. In 1891, a schooner called the Thomas Hume disappeared without a trace. In 1937, George Donner (captain of the O.M. McFarland) went to his quarters after a long day of navigating icy water and was never seen again. Most recently, in 1950, Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 2501 mysteriously disappeared over the Lake Michigan Triangle, and the 58 people on board were never seen again.
The Black Dog of Lake Erie
In Welland Canal, it is said that a ship’s mascot – a large black Newfoundland dog – once fell overboard and perished under the gate of a canal lock. Angered by the crew’s inability to rescue him, the black dog began to haunt the crewmates at night with endless baying howls. Now, the black dog is said to appear on ships that are about to get into trouble, often appearing on deck, dashing across the ship, and then leaping off the other side. The black dog is known as a harbinger of catastrophe.
Ghost Fleet of the Great Lakes
With all the shipwrecks that have occurred in the Great Lakes, it’s no wonder why many boaters have reported seeing ghost ships. These spectral vessels are collectively known as the Ghost Fleet of the Great Lakes. The oldest ghost ship is Le Griffon, which vanished on Lake Michigan in 1679. The rumor amongst boaters is that this ship can be seen tracking a collision course with other vessels, disappearing only shortly before contact. Le Griffon’s wreckage has never been definitively located. Other ships in the Ghost Fleet include the W.H. Gilcher, the Western Reserve, and the Hudson.
South Bay Bessie
Anyone who is already familiar with the Loch Ness Monster will be pleased to know that Lake Erie is home to another similar beast. The first sighting of the South Bay Bessie occurred in 1793. According to reports, Bessie is about nine to 12 meters long, and is gray and snake-like (much like the Loch Ness Monster). Since no one is sure what this mythical creature is, there is a cash reward for anyone who is ever able to capture it.
October is an exciting time of year for boating enthusiasts around the Great Lakes. When a haunting chill permeates the air, it’s the perfect occasion to hit the water and search for your own spooky tales! First, stop by Great Lakes Yacht Sales for new boats for sale, as well as used boats for sale, to find the perfect vessel for your adventures across the Great Lakes.
