The SS Arthur M. Anderson was the last ship to see the Edmund Fitzgerald. This cargo ship holds a significant place in maritime history for its role as the final vessel to be in contact with the SS Edmund Fitzgerald before its tragic sinking on November 10, 1975, during a severe storm on Lake Superior.
The Final Encounter
On that fateful night, both the SS Edmund Fitzgerald and the SS Arthur M. Anderson were navigating the treacherous waters of Lake Superior, sailing in tandem through gale-force winds and towering waves. The Arthur M. Anderson was following behind the Fitzgerald, and its crew maintained both visual and radio contact with the larger vessel.
As the storm intensified, visibility rapidly deteriorated, making continuous visual contact challenging. Despite the harsh conditions, the SS Arthur M. Anderson remained the closest ship and the last to communicate with the Edmund Fitzgerald before it vanished from radar screens and radio contact was lost forever. This vital communication established the Arthur M. Anderson as the last known link to the Fitzgerald.
Key Details of the Vessels
To better understand the context of this historical event, here's a brief comparison of the two ships:
| Ship Name | Type | Key Role / Status | Noteworthy Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| SS Edmund Fitzgerald | Laker | Famous Great Lakes bulk carrier | Sank tragically on November 10, 1975 |
| SS Arthur M. Anderson | Laker | Last ship in contact with and to see the Fitzgerald | Actively participated in the search for the Fitzgerald's survivors; still in service as of 2024 |
The SS Arthur M. Anderson, a robust cargo ship of the laker type, continues to operate on the Great Lakes, serving as a living testament to maritime resilience and a poignant reminder of the Edmund Fitzgerald disaster. Its crew famously provided crucial assistance in the initial search efforts for the Fitzgerald and its 29 crew members.
The enduring story of the Edmund Fitzgerald and the SS Arthur M. Anderson highlights the immense power of Lake Superior and the bravery of those who sail its waters.
