EDMUND FITZGERALD MEMORIAL-CAPTAIN DARRELL WALTON NEW INFO UNCLE RALPH WALTON PERISHED

[@toddgilmore8412]

I have just finished re-watching this amazing tribute, well done guys. I still just can't imagine what Capt. Bernie Cooper went through that night. First loosing sight and then radar contact with the Fitz, just a horrific and unbelievable feeling that she was probably gone. And then the call he received to go back out into the storm and search for his fellow mariners of which he did. Capt. Cooper is certainly a hero in this tragic story.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Capt. Cooper was amazing. I can't imagine going back out in the same storm that he knew took down the Fitz. Courage beyond words. RIP Capt. Cooper. Thanks Todd...we are really enjoying your contributions and support. HMM

[@bradparker9664]

Another great History Mystery Man video. As an ex cop, II tend to gravitate towards things like unsolved murders and the like...I have a book out on the Kennedy assassination. But something about the Fitz has really captured my attention. Your videos are by far the best out there.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks again, Brad...so appreciated. And thanks for your service in law enforcement...so much respect. #BackTheBlue HMM

[@jeffbranchick1516]

Invaluable documentary interview. I see no reason to doubt the good Captain Walton regarding the inside details of covering up the Fitz bottoming out on the shoal and the red paint found there. As he stated, why would those people bullshit him? This was a different era, and unfortunately for the blue collar hard worker, keeping your mouth shut to protect your job was a common practice then. I didn’t know about the difference of two less bulkheads. It makes sense that would jeopardize the structural integrity of a boat that big. She was pushed beyond her limitations too many times. This was that one, once a century perfect storm, that became one trip too many, and 29 real good men paid their lives for company greed. The fascination of this tragic event never fades. Well done sir.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks again Jeff. Once the story of the Mighty Fitz grabs hold, it never lets go...every November it just comes back for more. HMM

[@jeffbranchick1516]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Like clockwork. The circle just comes around once again. Appreciate your reciprocation. Give me a shout when you come back through the Land and we'll figure something out. Or I'll let you know when I decide to make another trip to the National Museum at the Maritime Center on the Maumee. That said, I sent you a DM connect msg on LinkedIn.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@jeffbranchick1516 Got it...done! We'll work something out for sure...HMM

[@gilliankingston8259]

There are a number of videos about the Edmund Fitzgerald but those where Captain Darrell talks about her seem to be the best informed and knowledgable👍

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...Capt. D is the best! HMM

[@100pba2]

Thank you for keeping the memory of the Edmund Fitzgerald alive.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome; thanks for watching...HMM

[@MrLuckytrucker21]

Wow, didn't know she was loaded up to her summer draft line, when in a winter storm!

[@pchili4]

I could listen to this man talk about this forever! So interesting how he tells it!👍

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I agree! Thanks for watching...HMM

[@mikeb949]

I totally agree with Captain Darrell! I had the honor of meeting and speaking with Captain Bernie Cooper back in the 1980's. He pulled no punches when he told me his true thoughts on the sinking, and I always will believe him over any Coast Guard reports. Anytime you're in the Harrison Township MI area Captain Darrell, drinks are on me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

How cool...a conversation with Captain Cooper! Thanks for watching...HMM

[@evrav4]

Take Bernie coopers word ship was over loaded to start with

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@evrav4 And Cooper was there...in that same sea. Thanks...HMM

[@mikeb949]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Exactly! And what some people may not realize, is that the Arthur Anderson was getting hammered by the same storm. Most of the crew on the Anderson were fearful they would not make either. That is why Captain Cooper (RIP) will always have my respect for going back to look for survivors.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@mikeb949 Well said Mike B...couldn't agree more on Captain Cooper. HMM

[@TSWest]

It was Gordon Lightfoot who first introduced me to the Edmond Fitzgerald. I can still feel my heart skip a beat when I listen to it and he sings that one line... "Does anyone know, where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hours?" That always gets me. Great video that has gained you a new subscriber.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks; i appreciate you taking the time to watch. Such a powerful song...HMM

[@jski7355]

Very accurate lyrics , That recording really gives you that gloomy feeling , I remember hearing that song as I was driving thru a snow squall on a somewhat desolate section of highway just prior to Thanksgiving I looked at the gray skies ,and the intermittent precipitation ,, that was snow , drizzle snow , freezing rain .It was by no means a major storm , but enough to proceed with extreme caution . And a typical late November depressing day .. I could feel those Seaman .. I'll never forget it ...Crazy

[@American4Kestrel]

Lightfoot's homage to the unnamed workers on the Fitz still haunts me; I regularly share the song and story with my classes.

[@nancyback]

❣️❣️❣️

[@midnightwriter9658]

What a small world. My grandpa, Edward John Timblin (Oregon, Ohio) served on the same Crispin Olgeby as Mr. Walton did for most of the 1960's until his retirement in 1973. They must have known each other very well. I was home on leave from the Navy, sitting in the kitchen with grandpa on the morning after the sinking of the Fitz. A Detroit radio station broadcast the news about the ship; grandpa turned as white as a ghost. He and grandma knew several of the crew, including Captain McSorley. Grandpa was never the same after that morning and died about a year later. Thank you for posting this excellent piece.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome...thanks for watching. And thanks for sharing your personal stories here...so interesting! HMM

[@Invictus13666]

I could listen to Captain Walton for hours. Thanks so much for making this.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Oh I know...ain't he awesome! Thanks...HMM

[@garylefevers]

Agreed. I could listen to that man all day. I truly hope to hear more in the future. What a terrific job on this doc.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@garylefevers Thanks Gary...Part 2 on the way.

[@THEJR-of5tf]

It was Gordon Lightfoot that made me aware of the tragedy. I'm a Brit living in the UK. I have read all the books I can find about this event RIP every one of the crew, you will never be forgotten.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching. And thanks to Gordon Lightfoot for making the story of the Mighty Fitz known around the world. It's exciting to hear from you, all the way from the UK. HMM

[@CoastalAutoReactionCAR]

Thank you for doing these videos on the admin Fitzgerald! Glad I found your channel!

[@CoastalAutoReactionCAR]

Flipping auto correct obviously it was meant to say Edmund Fitzgerald* Cheers

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks! Greatly appreciated. Can you help me find Hudson's Challenger?

[@CoastalAutoReactionCAR]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Your video on the car was amazing!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@CoastalAutoReactionCAR Thanks...I really appreciate that. Stop by anytime! HMM

[@dougyoungs2599]

I was only 7 when the mighty Fitz went down in 1975. I remember it well.. RIP crew of the Fitz. You will never be forgotten.

[@jimwiskus8862]

I was almost 19. I remember it like it was yesterday. I live in Iowa, and it touched a lot of people all across America. They were all very brave men, with many hopes and dreams of tomorrow.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Well said Doug...thanks for writing in.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

And it's been touching people around the world ever since. Thanks James, for taking the time to watch.

[@harrietharlow9929]

I was 22 at the time of the sinking of the Big Fitz and I remember it well.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@harrietharlow9929 Once you know, it's impossible to forget. Thanks Harriet...HMM

[@augustusshook2881]

Thank You so much for this video. When I came home from the Army I wanted to come up there and get a job on one of those mighty ships. It was a dream of mine what a awesome job it would have been. Its my prayer that God will watch over all the crews that sail the Great Lakes and get home safely.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Augustus. What a life...living the Great Lakes. HMM

[@angelwalker3260]

What an amazing video! I'm from Michigan, I was 14 in Nov. 75. I remember. I was at my older sister's house visiting up in Boyne Falls. I do remember the storm. And I recall going to this little restaurant the next day and everyone talking about the Fitzgerald missing. This is the first I have ever heard about red paint on the rocks! Fascinating stuff!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Angel! I appreciate you taking the time to watch...HMM

[@gayprepperz6862]

This has to be the most enlightening interview about the Fitz that I have ever seen (since I watched my first documentary on her). I've heard a bit about it's construction issues, and alleged remarks made by McSorely about it, but interview had me mesmerized. Profit and greed sunk the Edmund Fitzgerald, just as sure as The Witch of November.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks kindly; I appreciate your kind remarks. Sooner or later, greed always seems to rear its ugly head in corporate America...

[@gregoryclemen1870]

they will always put "PROFIT OVER SAFETY"!!!!!, I was 14 years old when this happened, and it really hit home when gordon lightfoot released the powerful tune "THE WRECK OF THE EDMOND FITZGERALD" in 1976. the "FITZ" had another 60 year lifespan, but it was pushed until it "BROKE"!!!!

[@gregoryclemen1870]

thanks for the "HEART"!!, I will always remember as long as I live, it makes me upset when 29 lives were lost. I do not remember what insurance company that owned the "FITZ", it is real interesting that there is no "DIVING" / investigation of the wreck. gee, what are they hiding?????. I have never known of an honest insurance company, they only like to see the money go one way "IN"!!!, no payouts!!!!!

[@Random-rt5ec]

It is suggested that greed also sand the Titanic. Several wealthy anti-Central Bank passengers were on board the Titanic & the families behind the Central Bank needed these passengers disposed of. Today these families pretty much own the world.

[@michiganman9599]

@@gregoryclemen1870 indeed regarding the life span; the Arthur M. Anderson, which was slightly older than the Fitzgerald, is still going strong to this day, 46 years later

[@imhere653]

Now, THAT was packed full of intensely interesting FACTS. Thank you for your diligence towards educating those of us who don't know much about it. For a strictly voluntary endeavor, your generosity is exemplary. Thank you.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks 'I'm Here'...I appreciate you.

[@jeffburnham6611]

Packed with heresay. One someone says, "I was told this by so-and-so", someone who wasn't on the Fitz when she sank, it's not facts they're speaking, it's non-supportive opinion. If the Fitz did strike the bottom because she was riding too low, that could've easily been determined. If she struck the bottom bow first, her aft section would be sticking out of the water. To this day, if anyone who has seen the wreck and knows what really happened...they're not saying.

[@jasonw4053]

@@jeffburnham6611 except people have BEEN saying what this guy says in the interview for a long time, just not openly. There are interviews with former crewmen, one a chief engineer, who state that they didn't feel safe on that boat and that it had major issues. McSorely himself said so. Add to that overloading for years, and a hard, heavy weather captain, and you have a doomed ship.

[@redlinemando]

@@jeffburnham6611 WOW!!!!!!! Defensive & condescending much?!?!?!? It's a theory & you need to calm down dude..............that is unless you're part of Northwestern Mutual or the coast guard group that cleared the Fitz to finish out the season. Seasoned captains & seamen, from that area, familiar with those waters have all been saying the same thing for YEARS!!!!!!! It's a strongly supported theory based on the testimony & experience of ppl who served on the Fitz as well as other iron ore ships in the area. Here some simple math for you to chew on: 36 feet (6 fathoms) of water and the ship was loaded to 27 foot of draft. I mean.......it would only take a 10 foot wave for her to bottom out. If she struck bottom, bow first, 26,000 tons of force would have continued to push forward on the ship causing it to lurch up & buckle somewhere. This would have warped the ship into somewhat of a rainbow shape. With two less bulkheads than a ship of that size should've had & carrying much more weight than she should've been carrying for that time of year, it's easy to see how a stress point & eventual break could've happened. I believe the warping from the impact would have caused the bow to dive more than usual into each wave, putting even more strain on the initial impact point, until she could take no more. In a storm of that magnitude, it would have likely been impossible to notice the grimness of their situation until it was too late. I believe McSorley knew he'd struck bottom & that's why he immediately radioed that he was taking on water.

[@douglasskaalrud6865]

For further enlightenment there are at least a dozen books on the Fitz, all with differing viewpoints. I know a guy at work who saw a TV special on the foundering so he thought he knew everything and came to tell me because he had been told I was a “Fitzgerald guy.” I gave him three books to read and they demolished the “facts” as he had been fed. It pays to read up on the Fitz and form your own opinion. Remember the phrase, “consider the source?” That’s especially true with this subject because there are egos to massage, reputations to salvage, asses to cover and scores to settle. In the end, I believe the storm was just the straw that finally broke the camel’s back. The story of the weary camel begins with the laying of the keel.

[@johnking1381]

I could listen to Darrell all week, excellent stuff, subbed

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Darrell's a gem...thanks John. HMM

[@MyTube4Utoo]

Thank you for a great video. I'm 61 years old and have heard the song many times, of course, and just a few bits and pieces about the Edmund Fitzgerald, and it was enlightening to see this. *RIP Fine Men of the Edmund Fitzgerald*

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for taking the time to watch; I appreciate your support! I am also 61, almost 62. HMM

[@MyTube4Utoo]

@@HistoryMysteryMan 👍

[@davedennis6042]

One of the sadest things about this story is that Captain McSorley was retiring after this trip. His wife was in a nursing home and he told her he was coming home and would never leave her again. Would you want to be the person that had to tell her that Ernest wasn't coming home? Sad.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Very sad. When Gordon Lightfoot had his concert at the University of Toledo, Mrs. McSorley attended the show in her wheelchair, and visited with Lightfoot backstage. Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew...HMM

[@jefferyashmore6477]

I feel very sad for her but mcsorley should not have went out overloaded a damaged ship.. his arrogance killed 28 good men. He could have waited till storm passed. His reputation preceeded him.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@jefferyashmore6477 You have some valid points. I would add though that McSorley was unaware of the impending storm and its severity. When he left the dock, there were no storm warnings issued...not even a gale warning. The gale warning didn't come until he was out in the middle of it...thanks. HMM

[@jefferyashmore6477]

@@HistoryMysteryMan I had never heard that. Thank you jeff.

[@gib59er56]

Titanic capt. Smith was to retire after the tragic trip as well. Eerie.

[@OnusBones]

I first got a chance to listen to the words of the song in 1980. It still gives me a chill, and my life has never been on or around the water.

[@alanadair7169]

Although I am not an American or Canadian I have followed the story of the Fitz for 30 plus years this has been an excellent video RIP the men of the Fitz

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Alan...HMM

[@thealleys]

This was amazing. Far better than many big production documentaries I have seen.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks..so appreciated. Just me and my cell phone camera; I'm a one-man band, soup to nuts...HMM

[@toddsgreatoutdoors4226]

I love your channel and the interesting interviews. I watch these on Sunday evenings and find that it's calming and comforting to me. Thanks!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Todd...so appreciated. I love the calming effect thing...Sunday night therapy! Thanks for your support...HMM

[@simpsonrdlarry4385]

Wow, what an amazing story. I could listen to that guy tell all about his father and uncle and rest of his family’s experiences on the ship’s all day and then some! Great video!👍

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...greatly appreciated. HMM

[@deltaqueen5704]

I agree Simpson Rd Larry. That gentleman is a natural born storyteller. He must be Irish.

[@mr.sherlockholmes6130]

So sad they sank and all those men died . A merchant marine is a hard job . Thank you for your service great History. Service has to be hard and they should not be forgotten.There memory should never be forgotten.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome; thanks for taking the time to watch. HMM

[@nw8000]

MY GOD! These guys had this information and their opinions for 45 years and this is the first time they have been allowed to speak about them! OUT STANDING THAT MAN! THANK YOU ALL FROM THE UK AND GOD BLESS ONE AND ALL!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching! HMM

[@_R-R]

Every sailor who risks their life on these lakes, or the open ocean, is a special kind of person. Ready and willing. Facing ferocious storms. Respect. R.I.P. SS Edmund Fitzgerald and your 29.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks R R; I appreciate your support...HMM

[@billyanthony88]

I had the privilege of talking in depth with 2 elderly gentleman who were cousins. One served 6 years on the Fitz. 3 with Capt Pulcher and 3 with Capt McSorley. He tried through the 74 shipping season to get off the Fitz but didn’t have seniority to bump to another ship without taking a cut in pay. He actually quit Columbia before the start of the 75 season. He said “quitting seemed to be the only way to get off that boat with McSorley as master.” He said “Pulcher may have loaded it heavy and set haul records and ran her hard, but he wasn’t careless with her. McSorley was.” He said “frankly McSorley scared the hell out of me and a lot of the crew and I had to get off and away from him.” He said that McSorley may have been a good rough weather skipper but the Fitz was NOT a good rough weather ship, especially in the last couple seasons. The other gentleman was a foreman at Fraser shipyard. He was one of the inspectors who recommended that the Fitz go immediately into repair 2 weeks before she sank, but were over ruled by the coastguard and allowed to finish the season. He said that Tuesday morning, November 11th,1975, they were told by the managers at Fraser not to answer any questions regarding the bad condition of the Fitz, the weld breaks around the keel, or anything about it being unseaworthy. Management said, “we were over road by the coastguard. It’s their liability now, not ours.”

[@ijinokm]

Interesting/Intriguing comment, Billy. Appreciate it!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow...this is very interesting commentary; thanks for sharing it here, Billy. I had to go back and read what you wrote a few times to digest it all. Thanks again...HMM

[@tammiadams4001]

The truth slowly comes out in time when those feel safe to talk about it. After all these years Hoffa's body may have been finally located. It's just a matter of digging him up. Of all the ways to dispose of a body, Hoffa was placed headfirst in a 55-gallon barrel, a 12-foot hole dug with an excavator with Hoffa placed in it first along with other barrels dumped on top of him. I can't wait for them to start digging.

[@shawnjordan3330]

What a shameful loss of life driven by pure ego. A good ship an crew lost from pure assholery.

[@banditeastlick2471]

Another good reason to get to the bottom of the Fitz

[@christophersims7060]

Thank for sharing this memorial and personal experience of the disaster, RIP to all involved and affected.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome Christopher; thanks for watching...HMM

[@stevieray6216]

Awesome content, sir! Cpt Walton’s testimony gave me goosebumps. Inside knowledge and compassion. So, you could argue that ultimately it was excessive profit seeking that brought the Fitz down. Missing bulkheads, overloading, poor maintenance b/c those runs had to be made. Amazing that the Arthur M. Anderson is still in service today, now almost 70 years old!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I know...the Anderson is a war horse! The Fitz is a sad story for sure...heartbreaking to this day. Thanks for watching Stevie...

[@Houndini]

I think Cpt. Walton is correct. That happens lot more than is officially noted in all dangerous occupations.

[@harrietharlow9929]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Love the Anderson! She's older than me and still workin'. She's one tough Lady. Long may she sail! And I agree--the Fitzgerald is very sad. I remember seeing the great ore ships and in a fit of four-year-old exuberance yelling "shippie!". As you can tell I've loved ships and the sea since little. And the Great Lakes of course since I grew up near the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair. Seeing their photos I can only think they should either be old men or have passed after long, hopefully rich, lives. May they all rest in peace.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@harrietharlow9929 Thanks for sharing your thoughts here Harriet. I too grew up in the Detroit/Toledo area and have always loved the Great Lakes...largest body of fresh water in the world; we are so lucky to live next to them. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@lilym2432]

I was six when the Edmund Fitzgerald sank. I first heard about it from Gordon Lightfoot's song. I still love that song and it still gives me chills when I hear it. I enjoyed this video. Thank you for posting this.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome, and thanks for watching! And thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. HMM

[@gregj831]

My word! I can actually remember that teletype coming across our old TV screen! People all over the Buckeye State were stunned! I was just 11 and growing up Dayton Ohio but my family had a lot of roots up on the Lake and each year we vacationed in an old run-down cottage by the Lake. Dad used to take us to see the big boats and we were always in awe of them. We'd wave at the crewmen and they'd always wave back. In a sense, each of the crewmen on the Fitz were just like our machine shop Dads in that they were doing their best to bring home a check. Ungainly as she was, the Fitzgerald and her crew were the HMS Hood of the working class!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Did you ever remember waving at the Fitz as she went by, or were you too young to remember? Thanks for watching, greg j...HMM

[@ks8452]

I reported to USCG TRACEN Cape May, New Jersey for boot camp that night. My dad told me about the sinking when I made my two minute call home.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

It's funny how we remember those moments, where we were and what we were doing. Thanks K S...HMM

[@MrPolymers]

I could not agree more! I was a senior in 1975. I remember that evening for some reason. The weather got bad. I live in Canton, OH...

[@joelhenderson5404]

Wow pard this was very good stuff. I could not stop watching. Thank thank thank you God bless you!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome Joel; thanks for watching...HMM

[@munkustrap2]

I've watched both videos & I would love to see the entire, unedited version of the interview. Thank you...& hold that rope precious.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching...so appreciated. HMM

[@tangleshootburrfoot36]

I am so, so sorry for all of these brave sailors and their families!

[@CherylDonelon]

Thank you. I am also drawn to this story. Shipwrecks and Maritime history. My grandfather waa a Merchant Marine during WW2 .. like fisherman, all underappreciated.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Cheryl; I appreciate you! Being a Merchant Marine is rough business, and I appreciate your recognition for all...HMM

[@TheKRU251]

I am a UK resident all my life but the Edmund Fitzgerald has a resonance to me. My father was a carpenter for Cunard on the Mauritania, Queen Mary and Elizabeth. The stories of storms were frightening. The information regarding the grounding being covered up rings so true. The bulkhead issues etc. Thank you for such an informative inciteful video! God bless all who sail !

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome; thanks for watching! HMM

[@dennisryan6370]

"We are holding our own"..... No truer words were ever spoken!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching, Dennis...HMM

[@gregembrey2947]

Very interesting ,could sit back and listen for hours. a very sad story, thanks for sharing.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome Greg; thanks again, sir!

[@jennycallaghan1914]

A lot of info I never knew! Astounding!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching...HMM

[@masonpetersen4318]

Used to be OBSESSED with this ship when I was younger. Don’t know why but I was fascinated by it. Went to visit the museum when I was little

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

It's easy to get fascinated with the Fitz...thanks Mason...HMM

[@carlroberts7830]

from a person that made a living on the ocean for a time thank you

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome! HMM

[@davemorgan1]

Wow this is a fascinating interview and video. I really enjoyed it. Thank you and have a good day.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome Elliot; thanks for watching...HMM

[@MrSpeeeeeder]

2:14 - I drive by those ships about once a week....I’d love to see the inside just once. The ending was a great tribute to those who were lost.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...greatly appreciated...HMM

[@mariaq8087]

My husband, who's Canadian, from Cape Bretton Island, told me of the Edmund Fitzgerald. He always sheds a tear when listening to the song by Gordan Lightfoot. Iv just sent him your video, as I know he will enjoy hearing what you have to share.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Maria...greatly appreciated.

[@mariaq8087]

@@HistoryMysteryMan he did appreciate me sending it to him.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@mariaq8087 Awesome...thanks!

[@kencooper5201]

The truth has been told. Great interview.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching, Ken...HMM

[@Acemechanicalservices]

My family moved onto KI Sawyer Air Force Base next to Marquette Michigan the same month She went down. I was only 4 years old, but I’ll never forget.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Heck of a memory to keep from 4 years young. Thanks again, Ace. HMM

[@bobpeckinpaugh2550]

One of THE BEST documentaries I've ever seen! Great job!!!!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Bob...so appreciated...HMM

[@tommytucker1768]

I am obsessed- finally a vid that has facts and new credible info. Thanks Capt. Walton

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Tommy...we appreciate your support. HMM

[@charcoalblues.6121]

Loved the little squirrel that bolted across the front porch at about 1.32sec...

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Oh I know; he's become somewhat of a sensation! A star is born, and it's about time the squirrels of the world got some love. Thanks for watching! HMM

[@momv2pa]

Nicely done. I nearly cried at the end when they were ringing the bell and showing the crew’s pictures. Gif bless the crew, their families and friends.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks. Yeah...the end...going through the crew members is definitely my favorite part...HMM

[@buckwheatINtheCity]

Setting records for the amount of payload delivered; just one more haul boss man! One more!

[@oldmountainmarineandmetals9736]

I have always been intrigued with the story of the Big Fitz, being a former Waterman from the Chesapeake Bay this was really well done and gave me chills

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Jeff; greatly appreciated. HMM

[@fedupwithfedforever4151]

This HISTORY NEEDS to be a movie !

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I agree...the Fitz would make a great motion picture. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@stansmith4054]

Excellent investigative reporting my brother!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Stan...greatly appreciated...HMM

[@VideoSaySo]

Oh wow...thank you for this!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You are so welcome!

[@BonnieDragonKat]

Miss ya Fitzer!!!! I am still haunted by your loss. My adopted maternal aunt and uncle lived two doors down from Bruce Hudson's parents house.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching. Did you know Bruce? HMM

[@BonnieDragonKat]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Honestly I may have. I don't remember much before the sinking.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@BonnieDragonKat Understood...thanks! HMM

[@michellep1965]

@@HistoryMysteryMan did you know Bruce had an infant daughter born that year possibly that fall to his long term girlfriend.

[@BMWvroom]

Well done, thank you so much. I grew up in Lorain Ohio and loved watching the huge freighters ply Lake Erie. I've read every book and article on the Edmund Fitzgerald that I can get my hands on, thus I so appreciate your video. In 2017 I rode my motorcycle from where I live in Bangor Maine to Whitefish Point to visit the museum there. Thank you again for the excellent video, it was very informative. . RIP to the captain and crew of the Mighty Fitz.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow! What a great trip...a motorcycle ride from Bangor, Maine to Whitefish Point. That sounds completely awesome. How do you like living in Bangor? Thanks for watching...HMM

[@WesW3187]

Thanks. That was well done. I reckon if you ask the workers, that’s when you get the right answers.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I reckon you're right. Thanks Wes...HMM

[@gregoryv.zimansr4031]

Very interesting. I have listened to the song many times. Now when I hear it I will think about this video.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Well thanks Gregory...that's a great compliment! HMM

[@tonys852]

What an absolutely riveting piece of history. Also sad. Thanks to all those who put themselves in danger to keep things moving. Very cool documentary.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Tony...HMM

[@RAV1953]

Outstanding video. This IMO, is the definitive explanation/reason, for the Fitz sinking. RIP to all who were aboard.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...I appreciate your support. HMM

[@WayneTheSeine]

I well recall the sinking of the Edmond Fitzgerald...it was a big national story. I have always loved the song by Gordon Lightfoot. You have put together a fantastic tribute to the crew and the Fitzgerald.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Wayne...greatly appreciated.

[@scottrayburn5563]

I know this. The ship is your home, your office and the hard work each crew member gives makes her that much more special. God rest their Souls and God Bless their loved ones.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Well said Scott; thanks for watching...HMM

[@jerielliott6502]

My husband was a USCG stationed in Duluth MN. I will always remember the day the ship was dispatched and when it returned with a ship full of Coast Guard young men absolutely devastated by the disaster.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow...that's a difficult memory; thanks for sharing it here...and thanks for watching. HMM

[@timmotel5804]

Excellent. Very educational with much more information / facts than i have ever heard of before, and i have watched everything that i can find on the Fitz. The song has always been haunting. Thank you for this post.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Tim; I appreciate you...HMM

[@jasonw4053]

I'm so happy that people are openly discussing the Fitzgerald's overloading, hard sailing and construction problems. Most of the older generation of sailors I've talked to have similar conclusions as this man youve interviewed. It's been known but rarely discussed openly

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching, Jason...HMM

[@historicalbiblicalresearch8440]

Very many parallels to the Titanic disaster and cover up. The regulations flouted, the bulkheads missing from the Fitz and not to the top on the Titanic , and then a bunch of bad luck all combining. Thanks for this heartfelt documentary.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome; thanks for watching! HMM

[@clearlycaribbeanreb7176]

The Big Fitz was an Ohio boat with plenty of native sons on her. We’ll never forget in the Buckeye State. RIP fellas 👊

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Well said...thanks for watching...

[@tnelliott2447]

Love hearing the experts discuss it Great video 👍 sir

[@reha1066]

Great info, thank you very much. My dad was a Chief in the USCG (West Coast), retired in 1980. Growing up, I loved living at the ocean, at the lighthouses and hearing old boat and fishing stories. My dad saved mens lives and so I also enjoyed shipwreck stories. Always interested in the people that the stories were about. I love these stories.

[@reha1066]

By the way, I could listen to the both of you tell stories all day. 👍

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks again, JP...so appreciated. HMM

[@minx-black-kat]

Thank you for making this very informative video!!! What a great tribute to the Edmund Fitzgerald & crew. 💚 💛 💚

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome; thanks for watching! HMM

[@pokerinthefrontliqueurinth4971]

As a native Detroiter I find stories about Great Lake ship lore fascinating. I appreciate your foresight to interview people with a personal connection to the Fitzgerald. Keep up the good work.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks so much; I appreciate you taking the time to watch. Great Lakes shipping is soooo interesting!

[@garymckee448]

Great video, first time I have heard from someone that knows about what it's like on the Great Lakes. Thanks

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome Gary; thanks for watching...HMM

[@ajbaumgart4774]

Thank you for doing this video after watching them really made me feel as if i could feel the presence of the crew ive always loved the stories of the mighty Fitzgerald it happed way before i was born but i had a history teacher who got me hooked on the Fitzgerald she told us about it and out of all my class mates i was the only one who really paid attention but thanks man and thanks for your service on the lakes as well your a lucky man id love to work out there myself someday

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're always welcome Aj...thanks for your continued support...so appreciated. It's so easy to get hooked on the Mighty Fitz! HMM

[@ajbaumgart4774]

@@HistoryMysteryMan anytime i also liked the music you put in the Fitzgerald isnt my only shipwreck story but also a ww2 ship the uss Indianapolis ca 35 i had the privilege of meeting two of the survivors came to my middle school once and told there stories and they lived and sadly passed in Michigan where i live one was a Dr louis hyines and dick thalan if i spelled there names correctly if not my apologies but i have many more here on the great lakes as well

[@lesschoenberger3070]

This was so well done, and to hear that they found red paint on the rocks on Caribou Shoals leads me to strongly believe that Captain Cooper was correct, he always said he believed that they bottomed out on the shoals and were sinking ever since. That relative of a crewmember really told some things that we have never heard before, really enlightening facts. It's sad about his father, sorry that he had such a rough life.....

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Les...greatly appreciated. HMM

[@drforjc]

But none of the divers ever made a public statement setting the record straight?

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@drforjc No idea...great topic for you to research...thanks!

[@lesschoenberger3070]

@@drforjc Probably because like he said it would put the shipping company at risk of being liable so they were "persuaded" to keep quiet about what they saw?

[@drforjc]

That was my question. How would the shipping company be at risk if the Fitz had bottomed out? That's a navigational error in a bad storm. They would have been far more liable if the cause of the sinking was a faulty ship, as some people have theorized.

[@steverutherford8189]

I agree with everyone , it is a nice interview and really enjoyed it . Thanks for putting this together and sharing it .

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome Steve; thanks for watching...HMM

[@scottberry5266]

I was 16 when this happened, I remember the storm and seeing the little ticker across the the bottom of the tv saying a freighter was missing on Lake Superior.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

It's one of the moments that stays with you for a lifetime. Thanks Scott...HMM

[@scottberry5266]

@@HistoryMysteryMan : I have a house in Grand Marais Mi and when I’m up there you get talking to people in the bar and they will ask where the Fitzgerald is, I always tell them look just past the point to the east and there’s where it is. It’s a long way past but it’s about in line, then they start playing the song on the jukebox.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@scottberry5266 Man I love this story...right on through the song playing on the jukebox. Thanks for sharing it here. How cool...to have a home in Grand Marais. Thanks Scott, for your interest...HMM

[@jefferyashmore6477]

I was 12 remember this well. Couldn't believe it.

[@rogerabutcher8479]

Wow. So very well done and loved how you included family. A lot of times they are forgotten but you chose not to. Thanks for a beautiful video.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thank you Roger; I appreciate you! HMM

[@mrnobody8540]

I'm so glad to have seen this - thanks

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome! HMM

[@kvlemark]

I trust his opinion more than anyone. He knew what was going on, he knew them all, he knows the trade, and most important he knows the lay of the land more than most ever will. That boat bottomed out, broke its back after the bow hit the bottom. I really just don’t see anyone ever changing my mind. What a ride those boys went on.. I can only imagine..

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts here; I appreciate you.

[@alicewoodard2373]

I don't want to imagine (shudder)

[@Mr.CliffysWorld]

Bernie Cooper said TWO large waves struck them a few minutes before the Arthur M Anderson lost contact with the Fitz . One theory is the Fitz was long enough that when those two waves came thru, the bow was atop the first wave 🌊 and the stern atop the second wave 🌊 . So there was nothing supporting it amidships and it broke in half .

[@kvlemark]

@@Mr.CliffysWorld which is a good theory, but I don’t know if the two sections would end up that close together if that happened

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@Mr.CliffysWorld Interesting...worth considering. I can see the sense in what you're saying. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@freedom456able]

You did a great job! Things I never knew & now I do; thank you!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome King Henry...thanks! HMM

[@pacificoceantsunami8497]

I lived in Duluth years ago and was always fascinated with this story, I rented an apartment in Duluth from a man named Chuck Montgomery who came into my apt one day, saw my bookshelf with sea disasters and the book on the Fitz and told me he worked the engine room on the Anderson the night the Fitz went down, that gave me chills, I am a California guy originally and to actually meet and know someone who was connected with this tragedy was bone chilling and yet amazing at the same time...he is now deceased and I am in the deep south, but this video is good, definitely info here I had not heard, good stuff!!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks; I appreciate you taking the time to watch. What a fascinating story you shared. I would have loved to have interviewed this person. HMM

[@Kevin-ix4qz]

Excellent interview! Thanks for taking the time to create this video

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome Kevin; thanks for watching! HMM

[@andrewnorris1514]

@@HistoryMysteryMan are you going to the museum when they talk about the wescott?

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@andrewnorris1514 When is that? Which museum?

[@andrewnorris1514]

@@HistoryMysteryMan nov 9 2022 toledo museum on front street

[@andrewnorris1514]

@@HistoryMysteryMan tell Darrell W.

[@schwag91]

Great video. Lifelong superior resident, and USN veteran. They rang the bell 30 times last year in honor of Gordon Lightfoot. I've sailed the ocean, and I'll say i would never sail on Lake Superior during a storm. RIP to the 29 sailors of the Fitz. 🫡

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for your feedback...and thanks for your service in the USN. HMM

[@kenreynolds6152]

I've always loved those big freighters and as a truck driver much respect to my fellow working man on them, for I've always thought of them and what they do as the beginning and the end of my journey out here on the road ...

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching, Ken...HMM

[@davidmartin7660]

Excellent documentary. The museum is now on the bucket list. Being from Buffalo I’m almost positive the Fitz docket here a few times and recall seeing her as I drove over our skyway into the city. Thank you for the newfound enlightenment!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome David...thanks for watching...HMM

[@johnlaine6259]

I was eleven that night on the north shore, and that storm was just wild!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow...you remember the storm? What a memory. Thanks for watching John...

[@deeredave]

What a great interview. Thank you!!!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome; thanks for watching...HMM

[@johnwashburn7423]

Fascinating. Thank you. Enjoyed the lengthy interview with the captain. I have visited the Fitzgerald exhibit in Duluth and watched every documentary I come across. Ghostly and macabre but absolutely riveting (no pun intended🙄)

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome John; thanks for watching...HMM

[@spiritzweispirit1st638]

Thank You, Truly Worthy and Informative Reverance to This Great loss due to overt negligence of structual safety_ May Light and Peace Always Surround Them All, Always⚓

[@robconnell68]

I’m an Australian and love the song , I have a better appreciation for the Fitz now thanks to your very informative video thank you for sharing it and the interview with the gentleman really made sense on how the ship went down. RIP to the 29 men .

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Rob; I appreciate your feedback. So cool to hear from Australia! HMM

[@HahnJames]

Your video was very fascinating. As my uncle was a Great Lakes freighter captain, I've always found the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald really compelling.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Me too! Thanks James...HMM

[@thomasayer7511]

Wonderful and extremely done documentary about Big Fitz.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Thomas...HMM

[@moosecat]

Very well done. I went to school for my Third Mate's license; a friend of mine got his license, and sailed on the Lakes. Even though we were young children when the Fitz went down, it's near and dear to us both.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for taking the time to watch!

[@moosecat]

@@HistoryMysteryMan You're welcome. As you were showing the pictures of the crew, I couldn't help but notice that some of them were in uniform, and I wondered at how ironic it is that they may have survived being in Vietnam, did their tours and came home, only to be killed in the storm.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@moosecat That...and the Fitz when down on Nov. 10, the day before Veterans Day. Thanks again...HMM

[@DougFLTRX]

@@moosecat I thought the same thing. Several pics were of when they were servicemen and one for sure was a Vietnam era uniform. Definitely made the tragedy of their passing a bit more poignant

[@bonehead2768]

Awesome documentary, I could listen to Captain Walton for hours,Thank You,Sir for a very interesting informative and entertaining documentary.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Part 2 on the way...thanks! HMM