Present Day Beach Remains

As late as the 1950s, the remains of the Menekaunee could still be seen north of the outlet. According to shipwreck researcher Brendon Baillod, within the past dozen years “a significant portion of the Menekaunee's remains were allegedly purchased by a private individual and subsequently cut up to make furniture and trinkets."

The remains of the Marinette can still be seen off the beach of Watervale, although years can go by with the remains not being visible due to the height of the lake and the general ebb and flow of the shoreline. The remains that are visible appear to be part of the keel and hull. Judging from photos like the one's here, the remains continue to deteriorate. If you do happen upon what’s left of the Marinette or Menekaunee, please do not harm them in any way. They have been off the beach of Watervale for 119 years, far longer than when Oscar Kraft began visiting the area in 1920. And while you’re looking at them, look out over the lake and try to picture what it was like for the fateful crew during those few terrible days in November of 1886.

Photos:
Top, remains on the beach of the Menekaunee, 1950's
Middle, the remains on the beach of the Marinette, 1980's
Bottom, remains on the beach, 2004