SS Lakeland

The SS Lakeland rests approximately 205 feet deep in Lake Michigan near Sturgeon Bay with its steel hull fractured into two main sections. The wreck preserves cargo from its final voyage, including vehicles still locked within the hold.

Originally built in 1887 as the Cambria, the vessel was among the first cargo ships of its size to operate on the Great Lakes. It eventually sank in Lake Michigan under circumstances that made it a notable loss in regional shipping history.

The wreck holds significance as a monument to Great Lakes commerce, representing an era when such freighters were vital to regional trade. People who understand maritime history see it as a connection to working-class heritage and industrial waterways.

Visiting this site requires advanced diving certification and specialized equipment for deep water exploration in challenging conditions. The lake waters remain cold year-round and visibility can be limited, making preparation essential before attempting to explore.

Rare automobiles from the 1920s remain sealed within the cargo hold deep underwater, preserved by cold freshwater conditions. These Nash and Kissel vehicles offer an unexpected glimpse into what merchants were shipping during this period of industrial growth.