On November 10th, 1975, "The Pride of The American Side," the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald sank below Lake Superior's waves. Long has the ship and its dearly departed crew weighed heavily on the minds of Michiganders, Great Lakes mariners, and everyone who loves the lake shores. Next year, we observe the 50th anniversary of her sinking as we are reminded of the legacy of "Big Fitz" and her impact on our maritime history.
Now, it is my turn to honor her legacy and continue the journey the Edmund Fitzgerald started all those years ago. I have been one of four swimmers selected to participate in Stage 1 of the Edmund Fitzgerald Memorial Swim in the summer of 2025. The four of us will begin our journey directly above the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald in Lake Superior and will take turns swimming the 17 miles to Whitefish Point. From there on, many other stages full of swimmers will finish the journey to Detroit, Michigan.
This will be one of the great honors of my life. Since 2006, the Ontario Heritage Act has prevented any swimming, diving, or exploration near the wreck, marking it as an underwater grave for the 29 men who perished in her sinking. There may never be another chance for anyone to pay their respects to the Fitzgerald so closely. I will be 530 feet above her mountainous steel hull.
Anyone who knows me knows I love the water. I have been swimming all my life and will prepare myself to brave the cold water of Lake Superior. I will handle the swim, but I need help from you. The purpose of this swim is to raise money for the Whitefish Point Lighthouse, a vital beacon for all vessels entering or leaving Lake Superior since 1849 and the oldest operating lighthouse on the lake. For me to do my part in preserving the lighthouse, I need to raise $2,500.
As a former competitive swimmer turned youth swimming coach, I want to set a strong example for my athletes in the Manistique Sharks. I want to show them that swimming is a lifelong way of life and can take them to amazing places. Anyone close to me, the people of Manistique, and anyone else who holds a fond place in their hearts for the Edmund Fitzgerald, please consider donating. If we do this, I will return from the lake with the stories of visiting her resting place.
Thank you!
