Write a commentThere has been a lot of talk in the last year about the designation of a portion of eastern Lake Ontario as a national marine sanctuary.
But now, that talk is turning into real action for Oswego and beyond.
The research vessel Lake Guardian arrived in Oswego in mid-May to begin mapping out some of the many known shipwrecks at the bottom of Lake Ontario, many of which date from the 19th century. Using their remote operated vehicle (ROV) Rhody, marine archaeologists are creating 3D models of the wreckage to preserve history before it degrades and disappears for good. The video footage is also being livestreamed on NOAA’s dedicated YouTube channel for marine sanctuaries.
Not only are the researchers preserving history, they are also in the process of uncovering it. Rhody found a new, previously unknown shipwreck just days into the trip.
Skeptics may ask, well, what’s the point? Among SCUBA divers are those who specifically dive wrecks, and they travel the world to do it. This project is putting our region on the radar for its remarkable number of wrecks—64 confirmed so far—all relatively close to each other and in incredibly clear water that makes for wonderful diving. Tourism dollars are a huge boon to the region’s economy, broadening our tax base without burdening resident taxpayers.
The mapping of the wrecks and preservation of history are of great importance to local historians and history buffs alike. The untold stories being uncovered with the wreckage are important in their own right; they are also great material for creatives looking for inspiration. One local writer, Susan Peterson Gateley, has already fictionalized an account of 19th century life as a sailor on Lake Ontario with her novel, The Widow Maker: A Maritime Tale of Lake Ontario.
The Lake Guardian and its incredible team of researchers have also already hosted students from Oswego High School, providing opportunities for the next generation to be inspired and captivated by the lake and help bring our maritime history to life.
We can’t wait to see what’s next.
