GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — In 1940, amidst foggy conditions, the SS Arlington embarked on its final journey. Departing from Port Arthur, Ontario, on April 20, 1940, this 244-foot vessel was transporting wheat across Lake Superior to Owen Sound, Ontario.
During World War II, the SS Arlington served as a vital supply vessel, shuttling essentials like food and ammunition to other ships, as explained by Corey Adkins, the content and communications director for the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society, in an interview with Nexstar’s WOOD.
Accompanied by the faster and larger freighter Collingwood, the Arlington faced challenges due to the captain’s unusual behavior. Despite the worsening fog evolving into a storm, Captain Frederick Burke, also known as “Tatey Bug,” decided to continue the voyage, exhibiting erratic conduct.
When first mate Junis Macksey proposed hugging the Canadian shoreline to evade the north wind, Captain Burke overruled the suggestion, opting to remain in open waters instead.
On May 1, 1940, the SS Arlington met its tragic fate, sinking in Lake Superior during the storm. The crew, disregarding Burke’s orders, evacuated the vessel and boarded the awaiting Collingwood, except for Captain Burke, who chose to go down with his ship.
The wreck of the Arlington, submerged in approximately 650 feet of water and located 35 miles north of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, remained undiscovered for decades until shipwreck researcher Dan Fountain identified it using remote sensing technology.
The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society, in collaboration with Fountain, confirmed the wreck’s identity through an ROV (remotely operated vehicle) exploration. This discovery provided closure for Captain Burke’s family and shed light on a long-standing maritime mystery.
Adkins is currently producing a documentary recounting the Arlington’s story, set to premiere on Feb. 24 in Livonia. The film will showcase underwater footage, interviews, and anecdotes, including the account of two hockey players who found themselves aboard the ill-fated vessel that fateful night.
Through various media platforms, including social media, the GLSHS aims to share this historical narrative with the public, preserving the legacy of the SS Arlington and honoring the memory of those involved in this maritime tragedy.