Lost Mariner's Tale: Frank D. Barker Shipwreck Emerges from Lake Michigan Depths

The long-lost shipwreck of the Frank D. Barker has been discovered in Lake Michigan, offering a tangible connection to the region's maritime history. Matt Olson, owner of Door County Adventure Rafting, located the vessel in August 2025 near Rowleys Bay. The discovery was confirmed by maritime archaeologists from the Wisconsin Historical Society, who identified the wreck as the Frank D. Barker, which sank in 1887.

The Frank D. Barker, a two-masted wooden schooner measuring 137 feet in length, was constructed in 1867. Its final voyage in 1887 saw it en route from Manistee, Michigan, to Escanaba, Michigan, to collect iron ore. Amidst dense fog, the ship ran aground on a limestone outcropping, a peril common to vessels of that era. Despite salvage efforts, the exact location of the wreck remained a mystery for over 138 years.

Olson's discovery was initiated by an anomaly he observed on satellite imagery. His subsequent report to the State Historic Preservation Office led to dives by maritime archaeologists. The experts confirmed the wreck's identity, noting it rests approximately 24 feet below the surface, nestled between two arms of Barker Shoal. The Wisconsin Historical Society is instrumental in documenting and verifying such discoveries, with plans for a detailed archaeological survey in spring 2026 to further understand and protect the site.

Historically, the Frank D. Barker served as a 'canaller,' a vessel specialized for navigating the Great Lakes and the Welland Canal. This waterway was crucial for bypassing Niagara Falls, facilitating the transport of goods like grain and coal and significantly shaping Great Lakes commerce. The ship's original value of $8,000 in 1887 is estimated to be over $250,000 in today's currency, highlighting its economic importance.

This discovery is more than just the locating of a sunken vessel; it represents an enduring spirit of exploration and the deep connection between humanity and the Great Lakes. The Wisconsin Historical Society's efforts to potentially list the Frank D. Barker on the National Register of Historic Places will ensure its story continues to be told, offering future generations a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of maritime life. The find also underscores the ongoing importance of organizations like the Door County Maritime Museum in preserving the region's seafaring legacy.