Great Lakes Shipwrecks: Human Remains & Ethics

The Great Lakes are the site of numerous shipwrecks, and these shipwrecks sometimes contain human remains. The discovery and management of these remains raise complex ethical and legal questions for maritime archaeologists and government agencies.

Ghosts of the Great Lakes: Unveiling Underwater History

Ahoy, mateys! Ever feel a shiver down your spine when thinking about the deep, dark depths? Well, the Great Lakes are full of spooky secrets and sunken treasures. We’re not talking about pirate gold, but something arguably more valuable: the shipwrecks that whisper tales of booming industry, fierce storms, and lives forever changed. These aren’t just rusty piles of metal; they are underwater time capsules, brimming with historical, archaeological, and cultural significance.

But these ghostly galleons are in a pickle! Imagine trying to keep a birthday cake from crumbling underwater. That’s kinda what it’s like trying to preserve these fragile relics. Mother Nature’s got her way of doing things, and then there are human threats like careless anchoring and, yes, even outright looting. It’s a constant battle against the elements and sometimes, sadly, against ourselves.

So, who are the caped crusaders swooping in to save these submerged stories? Well, you’ve got your government agencies, your dedicated museums, your brainy academics, and passionate organizations, all working together to protect these wrecks. We’ll get to know them better soon!

Now, we can’t cover every single shipwreck out there (the Great Lakes are HUGE!), so we’re focusing on the wrecks we have a special connection to. Think of it like this: some shipwrecks are like a distant acquaintance you vaguely remember from a party. Others? They’re like your favorite old sweater – you know them inside and out. We’re diving deep into the “favorite sweater” shipwrecks, the ones with a high “closeness rating” – say, a solid 7 to 10 on our special scale. These are the wrecks where we’ve got a strong story to tell, plenty of historical info, and maybe even some goosebump-inducing legends! So buckle up, because we’re about to embark on an underwater adventure!

Guardians of the Deep: Governmental and Regulatory Bodies

So, who’s watching over these watery time capsules? Well, a whole host of governmental and regulatory bodies are stepping up to the plate to protect our beloved Great Lakes shipwrecks. Think of them as the underwater police, historians, and caretakers all rolled into one! They’re the folks ensuring these submerged treasures are around for future generations to explore (respectfully, of course).

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Ah, NOAA! These guys are a big deal. When it comes to managing and protecting shipwrecks within National Marine Sanctuaries, NOAA is the boss. They’re not just about pretty pictures of dolphins (though they do that too!). NOAA is serious about enforcing regulations. No looting, no unauthorized salvage, and definitely no treating these wrecks like your personal playground. They are on the watch to prevent any damage.

Think of places like the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. NOAA works tirelessly there, using advanced technology to map and monitor wrecks, ensuring they remain intact for divers and researchers alike. They’re also big on education, teaching folks about the importance of these underwater museums.

National Park Service (NPS)

You know the NPS—they manage our national parks on land, but did you know they also look after shipwrecks within park boundaries? Their focus is on interpretation and public education. They want to make these underwater sites accessible to everyone, even if you’re not a scuba diver.

The NPS creates exhibits, develops underwater trails (for divers, naturally), and provides information that helps us understand the stories behind these wrecks. They ensure that your trip to the park also includes history of underwater.

State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs)

Each state bordering the Great Lakes has its own SHPO, and these offices are crucial. They’re tasked with identifying, evaluating, and protecting all historical resources, shipwrecks included. They team up with federal agencies, local communities, and other stakeholders.

SHPOs often conduct surveys to locate previously unknown wrecks, assess their condition, and nominate them for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. This designation provides an extra layer of protection and can unlock funding for preservation efforts.

Tribal Governments and Native American Organizations

This is where things get super important, folks. When dealing with shipwrecks, it’s absolutely essential to consult with Tribal governments and Native American organizations. Why? Because some wrecks may contain Native American remains or artifacts.

The protocols for handling such situations are crystal clear: respect, repatriation, and culturally sensitive management are paramount. It’s not just about following the law; it’s about doing what’s right. The ethical and legal obligations are significant, and these consultations ensure that Native American heritage is treated with the utmost care.

Environment and Climate Change Canada

Our neighbors to the north play a vital role, too! Environment and Climate Change Canada is responsible for managing shipwrecks within Canadian waters of the Great Lakes. They are on it when it comes to enforcement and preservation. They team up to catch the bad guys and preserve the underwater history.

A lot of their work involves cross-border collaboration with U.S. agencies, because, well, the Great Lakes don’t exactly stop at the international boundary! They work together to monitor wreck sites, share information, and coordinate preservation efforts, ensuring that these shared underwater treasures are protected on both sides of the border.

Museums and Historical Societies: Preserving the Stories of the Lakes

Ever wonder where the tangible pieces of Great Lakes maritime history end up? Beyond the depths, museums and historical societies act as vital custodians, breathing life into the silent stories of shipwrecks. They don’t just display artifacts; they weave narratives, educate, and connect us to the past in a way no textbook ever could. These institutions are treasure troves of information, offering glimpses into the lives, tragedies, and triumphs that played out on the turbulent waters of the Great Lakes.

Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society (and its museum)

The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society (GLSHS) isn’t just a mouthful; it’s a powerhouse of shipwreck documentation and preservation, particularly focusing on those shipwrecks we’ve deemed to have a high “closeness rating” – meaning we have a strong connection or wealth of information about them. The GLSHS isn’t content with just finding these underwater relics; they meticulously recover artifacts, ensuring their preservation for future generations. Imagine holding a piece of a vessel that braved countless storms – the GLSHS makes that connection possible.

Their museum is a testament to their dedication, showcasing recovered artifacts in a way that brings history to life. But the GLSHS goes beyond static displays. They’re passionate about education, offering programs and outreach initiatives that captivate audiences of all ages.

And speaking of captivating, we can’t forget the elephant in the room – or rather, the legend in the lake: the Edmund Fitzgerald. While we’re sticking to shipwrecks with high “closeness rating” criteria, the Fitzgerald’s story is undeniably intertwined with the GLSHS’s mission. Their work in documenting and understanding this iconic shipwreck exemplifies their commitment to preserving the legacy of the Great Lakes.

Wisconsin Maritime Museum

Venturing westward, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum stands as a beacon of maritime history, focusing specifically on Wisconsin’s rich connection to the Great Lakes. This museum is a hub of exhibits, research projects, and educational initiatives, all designed to illuminate the stories of the ships that sailed these waters.

They host several compelling exhibits about Great Lakes shipwrecks. With the “closeness rating” in mind, perhaps the museum features stories and artifacts from vessels that played a significant role in Wisconsin’s maritime history, or ones that have a particularly intriguing local connection.

Academic and Professional Contributions: Uncovering the Past Through Research

You know, it’s not just about finding these sunken treasures; it’s about understanding them. That’s where the academics and pros come in, the real detectives of the deep! They’re the ones who piece together the puzzles, bringing these wrecks and their stories back to life.

Universities with Archaeology or Maritime History Programs

Think of universities as the “base camp” for Great Lakes shipwreck research. They’re buzzing with ongoing projects, eager students, and seasoned professors, all diving deep (metaphorically, of course, though some do get in the water!) into maritime history. For example, universities such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Michigan State University, and Lakehead University are renowned for their Great Lakes maritime research programs.

Their labs and libraries are treasure troves themselves, producing significant discoveries, analyses of artifacts, and publications that shed new light on these watery graves. From mapping entire wreck sites using sonar technology to analyzing the wood used in a ship’s construction, these institutions are vital for understanding the Great Lakes’ past.

Archaeologists Specializing in Maritime or Underwater Archaeology

These are your Indiana Jones types, but with more scuba gear and less fear of snakes (hopefully!). These underwater archaeologists meticulously excavate, document, and interpret shipwreck sites. It’s a tough job, but someone’s gotta do it! The expertise these archaeologist posses is crucial in understanding the complexities of each site.

But here’s the catch: it’s not a free-for-all treasure hunt. Ethical considerations are HUGE. Do you raise a fragile artifact, potentially damaging it further, or leave it in situ (that’s fancy archaeology talk for “in place”) for future generations to study? It’s a constant debate. And let’s not forget the Great Lakes themselves – frigid waters, unpredictable currents, and limited visibility. They are among the challenges for even the most seasoned underwater archaeologist.

Forensic Anthropologists

When a shipwreck becomes a gravesite, forensic anthropologists step in. Their role is crucial in analyzing any human remains discovered, treating them with the utmost respect and care.

Using scientific techniques, they can determine age, sex, and even, in some cases, identify individuals. It’s like a CSI episode, but set in a shipwreck! Again, ethics are paramount. If remains are identified, the goal is repatriation – returning them to their families and communities for proper burial. Legal protocols and cultural sensitivity guide every step of the process.

Historians Specializing in Great Lakes Maritime History

Imagine trying to understand a shipwreck without knowing anything about the ship, its crew, or the times it sailed in. That’s where historians come in! They provide the essential historical context, turning a pile of wood and metal into a compelling story.

They research the lives of passengers and crew, the economics of Great Lakes shipping, and the social forces that shaped the maritime world. Thanks to their work, we understand not just how these ships sank, but why they mattered. It’s like adding the soundtrack and narration to a silent movie, bringing the whole drama to life!

Organizations and Ethical Considerations: Advocacy and Respect

Alright, let’s dive into the heart of respect and advocacy when it comes to our beloved Great Lakes shipwrecks. It’s not just about the rusty metal and ghostly stories; it’s about treating these sites with the dignity they deserve. This is where dedicated organizations and ethical considerations steer the ship (pun intended!).

Organizations Dedicated to Shipwreck Preservation

Think of these groups as the “Guardians of the Galleons,” or maybe that’s too cheesy? Either way, they’re the ones fighting the good fight to keep these underwater time capsules safe from all sorts of dangers. We’re talking about everything from sneaky looters trying to snag artifacts (not cool, guys!) to careless development that could damage these delicate sites.

These organizations aren’t just shouting into the void, though. They’re collaborating with government agencies like NOAA and NPS, local communities who care deeply about their maritime heritage, and even everyday folks like you and me! They’re raising awareness, pushing for stronger protections, and sometimes even diving in themselves to document and study these wrecks. They are the backbone of how many of these shipwrecks continue to remain untouched for future generations to see.

Organizations Promoting Ethical Treatment of Human Remains

Now, this is where things get really important. Shipwrecks aren’t just about the ships; sometimes, they’re also the final resting place of the people who sailed on them. And when human remains are found, we’re talking about a whole new level of respect.

These organizations are all about ensuring that any remains are treated with the utmost dignity. That means carefully and respectfully recovering them, working to identify them if possible, and then, if appropriate, repatriating them to their families and communities. It’s a delicate process, full of legal and ethical considerations, and guided by a deep sense of cultural sensitivity. It’s not just about science and history; it’s about honoring the lives of those who were lost and ensuring their stories are told with compassion and understanding. When there is a legal obligation tied to how to handle these human remains, then there is an ethical responsibility to carry it out and to the upmost extent. This is to maintain respect and care for all individuals on these shipwrecks.

So, next time you’re out on the Great Lakes, remember the stories beneath the waves. It’s a powerful thing to consider, isn’t it? These wrecks are more than just metal and wood; they’re final resting places, and deserve our respect.