Luxury Steamer Lac La Belle Found After 150 Years
In a remarkable discovery, the wreckage of the luxury steamer Lac La Belle has been found in Lake Michigan, nearly 150 years after it sank in a fierce gale. This incredible find is the culmination of a decades-long quest by shipwreck hunter Paul Ehron and his team at Shipwreck World.The Quest Begins
Paul Ehron's interest in the Lac La Belle dates back to the 1960s, when he first heard about the ship's tragic fate. The luxury steamer was on its maiden voyage from Chicago to Milwaukee when it encountered a severe storm that caused it to sink. Despite numerous attempts to locate the wreckage over the years, Ehron and his team remained determined to find it.
The Discovery
After nearly 60 years of searching, the Lac La Belle was finally located in October 2022 by a team led by Paul Ehron. The wreck lies approximately 20 miles offshore between Racine and Kenosha, Wisconsin. According to Ehron, the announcement of the discovery was delayed due to technical issues and poor weather conditions that prevented his dive team from returning to the site until last summer.
A Piece of History
The Lac La Belle's stern is remarkably well-preserved, with one of its propellers still intact. This incredible find not only sheds light on a tragic maritime disaster but also provides valuable insights into the history of shipbuilding and navigation during the 19th century. Ehron's team has created a three-dimensional video model of the ship, which will be used to further study and preserve the wreckage.
The discovery of the Lac La Belle is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of Paul Ehron and his team at Shipwreck World. This incredible find not only honors the memories of those who lost their lives on the ship but also contributes significantly to our understanding of maritime history. As we continue to explore and learn from our past, discoveries like this remind us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.
