Up bound and light, the 350 foot steamer W.C. Franz completed her final voyage in the early hours of that fateful day. The steamer Loomis, down bound with packaged freight, struck deeply into the port side of the W.C. Franz. Brief radio messages from the Canadian vessel Franz tell of the mishap and quick orders to take to the lifeboats. The lifeboats were not in good working order and many of the crew ended up in dangerously cold water. The steamer Loomis lowered lifeboats and picked up the survivors from frigid Lake Huron.
The steamer W.C. Franz is sitting upright on the floor of Lake Huron, remarkably well-preserved. Underwater explorers have finished the first phase of documentation. A program has been produced and the story of the Franz's history, discovery and exploration and the mysteries solved regarding her loss can be provided to interested groups and/or organizations. |
