The Mary Burke is a historical shipwreck discovered in 1992. It is believed to be the remains of a merchant vessel that sank in Lake Michigan during the 1800s. The wreck is located in approximately 200 feet of water, about 28 miles from Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The Mary Burke is significant because it is one of the best-preserved shipwrecks in the Great Lakes. The ship's hull, masts, and rigging are all intact, providing a valuable glimpse into 19th-century shipbuilding and maritime trade. The wreck has also yielded a wealth of artifacts, including pottery, glass, and tools, which have helped researchers to learn more about the lives of the people who sailed on the Mary Burke.
The Mary Burke is now a popular destination for scuba divers and underwater explorers. The wreck is home to a variety of marine life, including whitefish, lake trout, and sturgeon. Divers can also explore the ship's interior, which is filled with artifacts and sediment.
The Mary Burke
The Mary Burke is a historical shipwreck discovered in 1992. It is believed to be the remains of a merchant vessel that sank in Lake Michigan during the 1800s. The wreck is located in approximately 200 feet of water, about 28 miles from Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
- Shipwreck: The Mary Burke is a well-preserved shipwreck that provides a glimpse into 19th-century shipbuilding and maritime trade.
- Artifacts: The wreck has yielded a wealth of artifacts, including pottery, glass, and tools, which have helped researchers to learn more about the lives of the people who sailed on the Mary Burke.
- Scuba diving: The Mary Burke is a popular destination for scuba divers and underwater explorers.
- Marine life: The wreck is home to a variety of marine life, including whitefish, lake trout, and sturgeon.
- Great Lakes: The Mary Burke is one of the best-preserved shipwrecks in the Great Lakes.
- History: The Mary Burke sank in the 1800s, and its discovery in 1992 shed light on 19th-century maritime trade.
- Preservation: The Mary Burke is a protected site, and efforts are being made to preserve the wreck for future generations.
The Mary Burke is a significant historical and archaeological resource. The wreck provides a unique opportunity to learn about 19th-century shipbuilding, maritime trade, and the lives of the people who sailed the Great Lakes. The preservation of the Mary Burke is essential to ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from this important piece of history.
1. Shipwreck
The Mary Burke is a significant historical and archaeological resource. The wreck provides a unique opportunity to learn about 19th-century shipbuilding, maritime trade, and the lives of the people who sailed the Great Lakes. Its well-preserved condition makes it an invaluable resource for researchers and historians.
- Ship Construction
The Mary Burke's hull, masts, and rigging are all intact, providing a wealth of information about 19th-century shipbuilding techniques. The ship's construction is typical of merchant vessels built during this period, and its study can help us to understand how these ships were designed and built. - Maritime Trade
The Mary Burke was likely involved in the transportation of goods between ports on Lake Michigan and other Great Lakes. The study of the ship's cargo and artifacts can provide insights into the types of goods that were traded during this period, as well as the trade routes that were used. - Life at Sea
The Mary Burke's crew would have lived and worked in cramped and often dangerous conditions. The study of the ship's artifacts, such as personal belongings and food remains, can help us to learn more about the daily lives of these sailors. - Shipwrecks and Maritime Disasters
The Mary Burke is one of many shipwrecks that have occurred in the Great Lakes. The study of these shipwrecks can help us to understand the dangers that sailors faced during this period, as well as the methods that were used to search for and salvage shipwrecks.
By studying the Mary Burke and other shipwrecks, we can gain a better understanding of 19th-century shipbuilding, maritime trade, and life at sea. These shipwrecks are historical resources that can help us to learn more about our past and the people who lived before us.
2. Artifacts
The artifacts recovered from the Mary Burke shipwreck provide a valuable glimpse into the lives of the people who sailed on the ship. These artifacts include everyday items such as pottery, glass, and tools, as well as more personal items such as jewelry and clothing. By studying these artifacts, researchers can learn about the ship's crew, their daily lives, and the types of goods that were transported on the ship.
- Ship's Crew
The artifacts recovered from the Mary Burke can help researchers to learn about the ship's crew, including their socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and occupations. For example, the discovery of fine china and silverware suggests that the ship may have carried wealthy passengers, while the presence of tools and work clothes indicates that the crew also included skilled laborers. - Daily Life
The artifacts recovered from the Mary Burke can also provide insights into the daily lives of the ship's crew. For example, the discovery of food remains can tell researchers about the types of food that the crew ate, while the presence of personal items such as clothing and toiletries can provide clues about their daily routines. - Trade Goods
The artifacts recovered from the Mary Burke can also help researchers to learn about the types of goods that were transported on the ship. For example, the discovery of pottery and glass fragments suggests that the ship may have been carrying these items for trade.
By studying the artifacts recovered from the Mary Burke shipwreck, researchers can gain a better understanding of the lives of the people who sailed on the ship, the types of goods that were transported on the ship, and the daily life of the ship's crew. These artifacts are a valuable historical resource that can help us to learn more about the past.
3. Scuba diving
The popularity of scuba diving at the Mary Burke shipwreck is due to several factors. First, the wreck is well-preserved and intact, providing divers with a unique opportunity to explore a piece of maritime history. Second, the wreck is home to a variety of marine life, including whitefish, lake trout, and sturgeon, making it a popular destination for underwater photography and videography. Third, the wreck is located in relatively shallow water (approximately 200 feet), making it accessible to a wide range of divers.
Scuba diving at the Mary Burke shipwreck can provide divers with a variety of benefits. First, diving on a shipwreck can help divers to develop their skills and knowledge of underwater navigation and exploration. Second, diving on a shipwreck can provide divers with a unique opportunity to learn about maritime history and archaeology. Third, diving on a shipwreck can be a fun and rewarding experience, providing divers with a chance to see a variety of marine life and explore a piece of history.
Overall, scuba diving at the Mary Burke shipwreck is a popular and rewarding activity that can provide divers with a variety of benefits. The wreck's well-preserved condition, diverse marine life, and accessibility make it a popular destination for divers of all levels.
4. Marine life
The presence of diverse marine life around the Mary Burke shipwreck is a testament to the intricate relationship between shipwrecks and marine ecosystems. Over time, shipwrecks become artificial reefs, providing a complex habitat for a variety of aquatic organisms.
- Habitat Complexity: Shipwrecks create structural complexity on the seabed, offering shelter and refuge for a variety of marine life. The Mary Burke's hull, masts, and rigging provide numerous crevices and surfaces for organisms to attach to and hide within.
- Food Source: Shipwrecks often attract a variety of fish species that feed on the growth of algae and invertebrates on the wreck's surface. Additionally, the decaying wood of the ship can provide nutrients for marine organisms.
- Predator-Prey Interactions: The complex structure of shipwrecks creates a unique environment for predator-prey interactions. Small fish and invertebrates find shelter within the wreck, while larger predators, such as sturgeon and lake trout, patrol the surrounding area in search of prey.
- Historical Significance: The presence of marine life on the Mary Burke shipwreck not only contributes to the ecological value of the site but also adds to its historical significance. The wreck serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of human activities and marine ecosystems.
The diverse marine life found around the Mary Burke shipwreck highlights the importance of preserving underwater cultural heritage sites. By protecting shipwrecks, we not only preserve a piece of history but also safeguard valuable marine habitats.
5. Great Lakes
The Mary Burke shipwreck is a significant historical and archaeological resource, not only for the insights it provides into 19th-century shipbuilding and maritime trade but also for its contribution to the unique underwater ecosystem of the Great Lakes.
- Preservation: The cold, freshwater environment of the Great Lakes has helped to preserve the Mary Burke shipwreck remarkably well. The ship's hull, masts, and rigging are all intact, providing a valuable glimpse into 19th-century shipbuilding techniques.
- Historical Significance: The Mary Burke shipwreck is a reminder of the importance of maritime trade in the development of the Great Lakes region. The ship was likely involved in the transportation of goods between ports on Lake Michigan and other Great Lakes, playing a role in the economic growth of the region.
- Archaeological Value: The Mary Burke shipwreck is an underwater archaeological site that can provide valuable insights into the lives of the people who sailed on the ship. The artifacts recovered from the wreck, such as personal belongings and food remains, can help researchers to learn more about the daily lives of sailors in the 19th century.
- Ecological Importance: The Mary Burke shipwreck has become an artificial reef, providing a habitat for a variety of marine life. The wreck's complex structure attracts fish, invertebrates, and other organisms, contributing to the biodiversity of the Great Lakes ecosystem.
The Mary Burke shipwreck is a valuable historical, archaeological, and ecological resource that provides insights into the maritime history, cultural heritage, and environmental significance of the Great Lakes region.
6. History
The sinking of the Mary Burke in the 1800s and its subsequent discovery in 1992 are significant events that have contributed to our understanding of 19th-century maritime trade. The Mary Burke was a merchant vessel that likely sank in a storm on Lake Michigan. Its discovery in 1992 by a team of divers led to the recovery of a wealth of artifacts, including pottery, glass, and tools. These artifacts have provided valuable insights into the types of goods that were transported on the Great Lakes during this period, as well as the daily lives of the sailors who worked on these ships.
The discovery of the Mary Burke has also helped to shed light on the importance of maritime trade in the development of the Great Lakes region. The Great Lakes were a major transportation route for goods and people in the 19th century, and the Mary Burke was one of many ships that played a role in this trade. The artifacts recovered from the wreck have helped researchers to learn more about the types of goods that were transported on the Great Lakes, as well as the routes that were used.
The Mary Burke is a valuable historical and archaeological resource that has helped us to learn more about 19th-century maritime trade and the development of the Great Lakes region. The discovery of the wreck and the recovery of its artifacts have provided researchers with a wealth of information about the ships, sailors, and goods that were involved in this important trade.
7. Preservation
The preservation of the Mary Burke is essential for ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from this important piece of history. The wreck is a valuable historical and archaeological resource that can provide insights into 19th-century shipbuilding, maritime trade, and the lives of the people who sailed the Great Lakes.
There are a number of threats to the Mary Burke, including natural factors such as storms and erosion, as well as human activities such as looting and pollution. To protect the wreck, a number of measures have been taken, including:
- Designating the wreck as a protected site under the Michigan Underwater Salvage and Preserve Act.
- Installing buoys to mark the wreck and deter looting.
- Conducting regular monitoring of the wreck to assess its condition and identify any threats.
- Educating the public about the importance of preserving the wreck.
These measures are essential for ensuring that the Mary Burke is preserved for future generations. By protecting the wreck, we are preserving a piece of our maritime history and ensuring that future researchers and divers can continue to learn from this important resource.
The preservation of the Mary Burke is a complex and challenging task, but it is one that is essential for ensuring that future generations can learn from this important piece of history. By working together, we can protect the Mary Burke and ensure that it remains a valuable resource for years to come.
FAQs on "the mary burke"
This section provides brief answers to frequently asked questions about the Mary Burke shipwreck.
Question 1: What is the Mary Burke?
The Mary Burke is a historical shipwreck discovered in 1992. It is believed to be the remains of a merchant vessel that sank in Lake Michigan during the 1800s.
Question 2: Where is the Mary Burke located?
The Mary Burke is located in approximately 200 feet of water, about 28 miles from Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Question 3: Why is the Mary Burke important?
The Mary Burke is significant because it is one of the best-preserved shipwrecks in the Great Lakes. The ship's hull, masts, and rigging are all intact, providing a valuable glimpse into 19th-century shipbuilding and maritime trade.
Question 4: What artifacts have been recovered from the Mary Burke?
A wealth of artifacts have been recovered from the Mary Burke, including pottery, glass, tools, and personal belongings. These artifacts have helped researchers to learn more about the lives of the people who sailed on the ship and the types of goods that were transported on the Great Lakes.
Question 5: Can I dive the Mary Burke?
Yes, the Mary Burke is a popular destination for scuba divers and underwater explorers. However, divers must be certified and have experience diving in deep water.
Question 6: How can I learn more about the Mary Burke?
There are a number of resources available to learn more about the Mary Burke, including books, articles, and websites. Additionally, there are a number of museums and historical societies that have exhibits on the Mary Burke.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the Mary Burke shipwreck. For more information, please visit the website of the Wisconsin Historical Society.
The Mary Burke is a fascinating and important piece of maritime history. By learning more about this shipwreck, we can gain a better understanding of the lives of the people who sailed the Great Lakes in the 19th century.
Tips for Exploring the Mary Burke Shipwreck
Exploring the Mary Burke shipwreck can be a rewarding experience for scuba divers and underwater enthusiasts. However, it is important to be prepared and to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive.
Tip 1: Obtain Proper Training and Certification
Diving the Mary Burke is a challenging dive that requires specialized training and certification. Divers should be certified in deep diving and have experience diving in cold water. It is also recommended to take a wreck diving course to learn the proper techniques for exploring shipwrecks.
Tip 2: Dive with a Buddy
Never dive the Mary Burke alone. Always dive with a buddy who is also experienced in deep diving and wreck diving. This will help to ensure your safety in the event of an emergency.
Tip 3: Check the Weather Forecast
Before diving the Mary Burke, always check the weather forecast. Diving in poor weather conditions can be dangerous. If the weather forecast is not favorable, it is best to postpone your dive.
Tip 4: Use a Dive Computer
A dive computer is an essential piece of equipment for diving the Mary Burke. A dive computer will help you to monitor your depth, dive time, and air pressure. This information is essential for ensuring your safety.
Tip 5: Bring a Dive Light
The interior of the Mary Burke is dark, so it is important to bring a dive light. A dive light will help you to see inside the wreck and to avoid obstacles.
Tip 6: Be Respectful of the Wreck
The Mary Burke is a protected historical site. It is important to be respectful of the wreck and to avoid touching or removing any artifacts. Remember, the wreck is a piece of history that should be preserved for future generations.
Key Takeaways
- Obtain proper training and certification before diving the Mary Burke.
- Always dive with a buddy.
- Check the weather forecast before diving.
- Use a dive computer to monitor your depth, dive time, and air pressure.
- Bring a dive light to explore the interior of the wreck.
- Be respectful of the wreck and avoid touching or removing any artifacts.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive on the Mary Burke shipwreck.
Conclusion
The Mary Burke shipwreck is a fascinating and important piece of maritime history. By exploring this shipwreck, we can gain a better understanding of the lives of the people who sailed the Great Lakes in the 19th century. The Mary Burke is also a valuable archaeological resource that can provide insights into shipbuilding techniques, maritime trade, and the daily lives of sailors.
The preservation of the Mary Burke is essential for ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from this important piece of history. By working together, we can protect the Mary Burke and ensure that it remains a valuable resource for years to come.
The Mary Burke shipwreck is a reminder of the importance of our maritime heritage. It is a symbol of the ingenuity and perseverance of the people who sailed the Great Lakes. By preserving and exploring the Mary Burke, we are preserving a piece of our history and ensuring that future generations can learn from this important resource.Article Recommendations
