Wisconsin Boater Discovers Long-Forgotten Shipwreck in Lake Michigan
In an extraordinary discovery, a Wisconsin boater recently stumbled upon a long-lost shipwreck resting beneath the waters of Lake Michigan. The wreck, belonging to the Frank D. Barker, a 19th-century cargo ship, had been missing for nearly 140 years before being rediscovered near Door County. This remarkable find not only brings to life a significant piece of Great Lakes maritime history but also highlights the enduring mysteries hidden beneath the lake’s surface.
The Discovery: From Satellite Images to Sonar
Matt Olson, a local boat tour guide and owner of Door County Adventure Rafting, made the discovery in July 2025 while scanning satellite images of Lake Michigan from his home computer. His keen eye noticed an unusual dark shape in Rowleys Bay, near the tip of the Door County peninsula. Intrigued, Olson set out to investigate, equipped with sonar gear and a waterproof camera.
Beneath layers of zebra mussels and algae, Olson found the skeletal remains of a massive ship, extending over 130 feet long. “It’s incredible to stumble on a shipwreck of this size and intact condition, especially knowing it had gone unnoticed for so long,” Olson said. His discovery sparked immediate interest from maritime archaeologists and the Wisconsin Historical Society.
Tracing the Frank D. Barker’s Final Voyage
The Frank D. Barker was a two-masted wooden vessel, built in 1867 by Simon G. Johnson in New York. It was specially designed as a canaller to navigate the Great Lakes and the Welland Canal, transporting goods such as grain, coal, and iron ore. At the time of its sinking in 1887, the ship was en route from Manistee, Michigan, to Escanaba, Michigan, to pick up iron ore.
During its journey, the ship encountered bad weather and heavy fog, causing it to run off course and collide with a limestone outcropping near Spider Island. The crew took refuge on the island while attempts to salvage the ship over several months ultimately failed. Historical records from local newspapers and insurance documents helped archaeologists confirm the identity of the wreck.
What Makes This Wreck So Unique
Unlike many shipwrecks scattered across the Great Lakes, the Frank D. Barker’s remains are remarkably well-preserved. The hull lies under just 24 feet of water at Barker Shoal, a shallow area likely named after this very shipwreck. While the sides of the hull have split and flattened over the years, the bottom remains largely intact, with deck machinery and other features still visible.
Maritime archaeologist Tamara Thomsen described the wreck site as “like a puzzle laid out on the lakebed,” with pieces that one can mentally assemble to visualize the ship as it once was. The preservation provides valuable insights into the shipbuilding practices and trade routes of the late 19th century.
A Personal Connection and Future Exploration Plans
For Olson, the discovery was especially meaningful on a personal level. He recalled taking his six-year-old son snorkeling to see the wreck for the first time—an unforgettable introduction to underwater history. Olson has now found three significant shipwrecks in the Lake Michigan area over the past few years, contributing to the region’s maritime heritage.
The Wisconsin Historical Society is planning an archaeological survey in the near future to study the wreck in detail and potentially nominate the site for the National Register of Historic Places. The organization stresses that the site is protected by state and federal laws, prohibiting the removal of artifacts to preserve its integrity.
Preserving a Priceless Piece of Wisconsin’s Maritime History
The Frank D. Barker was valued at approximately $8,000 at the time of its sinking, which translates to over $250,000 in today’s dollars. More than 250 shipwrecks are known around Door County, a testament to the challenging sailing conditions of the Great Lakes. Each new discovery enhances our understanding of how these waterways have shaped commerce, travel, and local communities.
Experts and enthusiasts alike emphasize the importance of protecting these underwater archaeological treasures. “It’s critical to preserve these wrecks as they tell stories that belong to all of Wisconsin and the broader Great Lakes region,” Thomsen noted. Olson echoed this sentiment, warning against souvenir hunters and advocating for widespread respect and stewardship.