Category: Shipwrecks
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Top 5 Parks in Door County
Door County is loaded with parks, in fact there are more state parks in Door County than any other county in Wisconsin. There are also quite a few county parks as well as plenty of smaller Door County Land Trusts and not to mention city and town parks.
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Shipwreck of the Frank D. Barker
For some reason, I have always been fascinated by the stories of shipwrecks in Door County. I remember as a kid trying to find one with my dad and uncle out from Sunset Park in Sturgeon Bay and later snorkeling on it when I was in high school using an old GPS. I found my…
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Shipwreck of the Fleetwing
The Fleetwing was a 135-foot wooden schooner built in 1867, which ran aground in 1888 near Garrett Bay. Originally designed for transporting goods, it faced operational challenges over time. After a navigation error led to its beaching, the vessel was ultimately destroyed by a gale. Today, it’s a popular snorkeling site for beginners.
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Shipwreck of the Louisiana
The Louisiana, a 260-foot wooden steam ship, sank in Washington Harbor during a severe storm in November 1913 after dropping off coal in Milwaukee. Following a fire in its cargo hold, much of the ship was salvaged. Today, it is a popular snorkeling site with clear waters and diverse aquatic life.
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Shipwreck of the Hanover
The Hanover, a 1853 schooner, sank in 1867 near Strawberry Islands after running aground in a storm while en route to pick up lumber. Named after the wreck, a different shoal remains noted, with the shipwreck rediscovered in 2014. Seasonal visibility of the wreck varies due to natural sediment changes.
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Shipwreck of the Grapeshot
The Grapeshot shipwreck, located in Door County, was built in 1855 and ran aground near Plum Island twice. Discovered while exploring on Google Earth, it became a highlight during boat tours. The well-preserved wreck is shallow, with remnants accessible for snorkeling, and attracts marine life like smallmouth bass.