EDMUND FITZGERALD NEVER RELEASED INFO-Nephew of Victim RALPH WALTON. Steel and Shipping Business

The loss felt that day by families of crew resonates hauntingly to this day with those who knew the Edmund Fitzgerald, her limits, her Captain's drive and the Steel Industry. William Spangler Watchman of the Mighty Fitz tribute. Whitefish Bay in 75mph winds. The one crew member found and why he's allegedly still at the bottom. The unreal courage shown by the Captain Bernie Cooper and Crew of the Anderson who were instructed to turn to assist by Coast Guard who stated they could not get out there. More thoughts from Captain Darrell Walton who worked the industry along with his Dad, since 1939 whose Uncle Ralph G. Walton went down with the Fitz. His Dad never recovered from the loss. Plus a very special gift from Darrell to me toward the end. I reveal my own thoughts as to what I believe happened to the "Pride of the American Side." Thanks for your support! Please get in on the conversation, like, subscribe and share!
For booking, sponsorship and marketing info please contact [e-mail]
#EdmundFitzgerald #MightyFitz #LakeSuperior #GreatLakesShipwrecks #GordonLight #wreckoftheedmundfitzgerald #unsolvedshipwrecks #drowning #containerships #politics #business #finance #haulingsteel #captainmcsorley #berniecooper #authormanderson #hatches #leftfordead #survivalsuits #costofbusiness #moneyoverlife #deathnotifications #buriedatsea #graveyardsoflakesuperior #overcomingtragedy #forcedsilence

[@harpman6766]

Very nice job, Don! Thanks for the ringing of the bell for my Dad, the 30th victim!

[@alanadair7169]

Thank you For taking part in these videos What you have told us make a lot sense

[@picustchuck]

My father was a captain on the Reserve the final years of his career, small world.

[@darrellwalton938]

@@picustchuck My father was Chief Engineer on the Reserve, the night the Fitz went down.

[@garylefevers]

Greetings from SE Kentucky. Your Dad was a hero and was indeed the 30th victim. I hate that he had such a hard life buy I'm sure thanks to you and your fine family made sure that he had some moments of joy in between. Which is what life is all about. Thank you for the fascinating interview that you did. Could listen to y'all talk all day.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Captain Darrell is so much fun to listen to...cheers to his dad. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@buckybadger02]

I could listen to Capt Darrell talk for hours. A great orator of the great lakes shipping.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Ain't he the best?! I'm so glad I tracked him down...he made the video. Thanks for watching Daniel...HMM

[@Davehash]

I would love to hear what he thought of the sinking of the Morrell and other famous ships that have gone down. I'm sure he has alot of knowledge on those subjects. Maybe he can have himself and a panel of survivors on a video discussing their individual experiences.

[@esotericsolitaire]

RIP, Wade W. Walton. Thank you for your service.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Indeed...thanks Mr. Walton...HMM

[@darrellwalton938]

Thank you for the kind words for my Dad...

[@kingbee48185]

The body they found was most likely the watchman. He always had work coveralls on in every known photo of him. He is seen with work cover alls laying near the Fitz with a hastily dawned cork life jacket on. He would have been in the pilot house that fateful night and so when the bow went under, they had a few seconds to put the Fitz in the stop position and the watchman threw on a life jacket but was dragged down to the bottom at depths where water pressure negates the buoyancy of such life vests. Not trying to be morbid here, but Stonehouse and others I have read or watched propose this theory that the body was already there from a previous sinking or disaster and the Fitz just happened to lay next to the this older corpse. Ridiculous. I really think this was an attempt at damage control but the geenie was already let out of the bottle. Shannon let that kid and his father go down, they reported the body, he said he was going to publish photos of the body. That traumatized the surviving family and so someone in our parasitic Michigan legislature along with the wimps in the Canadian government took action that effectively killed any further expeditions to the wreck. Trying to claim it was a body from a previous wreck did not prevent this. Stonehouse is not the sharpest knife in the drawer, in my opinion. So the discovery of the body and the conditions are indeed very relevant in that is all we have left to act on to solve the mystery as best we can based on the facts. For whatever reason, the Fitz reported a list not long after passing 6 fathom shoal. The waves had not reached significant height at that point to tear any hatch covers off the cargo holds, so scratch hatch covers not being properly fastened off the causes of the list. It had either scaped bottom earlier at Caribou Island or stress fractures. small at first, let water in from an all weather captain "can't make no money sitting at anchor" who 'beat the shit out of the Fitz' and the crew was supposedly getting afraid to sail on her, who was welded together in nearby River Rogue MI where defective welds were passed off by 2 separate men who were not in contact with each other who couldn't wait to relieve the guilt they felt by telling this to my father. I married the daughter of one of them, the other came up randomly. So you have a rotten keel with bad welds and a poor fitting skin that by many accounts was not seaworthy at the beginning of 1975, not only fully loaded by overloaded by 3 feet, broken and shoddy repair jobs and broken welds needing a 'rest', going out into the perfect storm over Lake Superior, a small ocean in and of itself. The stage was set for disaster the second all weather McSorley tried to beat that storm that fateful november day. So for whatever reason, the Fitz started to take in water faster than her massive pumps could make any progress. This proves the hull was compromised. McSorley knew she was sinking at that point and slowed down for the Anderson to catch up. Whether McSorley should have went full speed ahead towards the sanctity of Whitefish Bay or ran her aground the Canadian shoreline I will leave to those who are the captains of vessels. So moving forward at half speed, McSorley's last words were 'we are holding our own'. I would have admitted defeat and surrendered by ramming the Fitz on the Canadian shoreline, but then again, i am was never a captain, Given the competence of some I worked under, maybe i should have been, but.....So sheis taking on water, overloaded by 3 feet, and is being ripped apart from the power of 30-50 foot waves, Right around the time Cooper claims those 2 massive 50 foot waves rocked the Anderson in succession (the waves may have been as high as 80 feet) they catch up to a water logged bow heavy ship and drive her under, Sudden and catasrophic, an open pilot house door, the ship in the stop position, and the failed escape attempt and no ditress call and the layer of taconite pellets all over the top of the bow section prove that the bow sank either detached or hanging bythreads to the stern, the wreckage and debris field suggest the Fitz broke apart like a green stick fracture right at where the elbow or joint hinge of the ship was, where the stress fractures would have lined up and caused the ship to break into the 3 sections she has since rested in. The bow section, which from the visible, extensive damage, suggests plunging at steep angle, the 'missing section' which is a debris field in the middle where the ship was ripped apart right at the elbow or flexing point of the ship, then the capsized stern which would have been twisted in such a fashion in a greenstick like fracture or break up.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow...another one packed with information. Again, I'm going to have to read this a few times to get it all. Thanks for sharing your thoughts here...greatly appreciated. HMM

[@P_RO_]

Covers everything. One point most overlook is thyat McSorely reported a fence down. That's a heavy steel cable going nearly from end to end on either side. The only way you can lose a fence is if it pulls loose from an end, which is darn near impossible; if something hits it and stretches it beyond it's breaking point, which in the middle of the lake there's nothing to do that, or if the ship hogs, bending upward in the middle stretching the cable to it's breaking point. Just as what would happen if it shoaled in the middle which is where she finally broke apart. And that broken fence was reported after passing Caribou shoals. No other explanation of the broken fence comes close to matching what we know for fact. McSorley was also known for regularly running tight to that shoal with some hearsay reports from long before the wreck that crewmen had more than once heard and felt mild shoaling there. So to me anyway, the chain of events leading to her loss began when she shoaled. The taking on of water causing the list could have been hull damage, the loss of 2 vents also reported, or both. If indeed she shoaled McSorely would not have spoken of it, for that would have cost him his job for risking her on a known hazard. Likely he knew it but believed they were OK to continue on and in port he could have claimed to been blown off course if it were discovered. Another interesting point is that the #1 hatch was discovered pushed into the hold intact, with the coaming it was attached to bent inward. That would take a huge amount of force to accomplish. It is believed that with everything else buttoned up tight, almost no amount of water washing over a hatch could do this because air pressure inside the hold would be resisting that, yet if the hull were broken then air pressure could not build to resist that, which also signals she at least partially broke up on the surface- maybe completely- when too much water built up on the hatch instantly flooding the holds the moment she began to go under. Two more interesting points are that the pump intakes were linked and arranged port and starboard, so with a list one side would be above any water in the hold and the other side could not draw until the high side met water. This would have allowed a large amount of water to build before the pumps would have been effective, and even then they couldn't get it all with her listing. There's also the cargo. Taconite is basically iron ore compressed into pellet form with moisture and pressure to allow easier loading/unloading, then it is baked dry to remove the moisture and lighten it. If Taconite gets wet it absorbs moisture which will not dry out in a ship's hold. So with the list and water in the hold, the Taconite on that side would have become heavier and stayed that way. McSorley knew these things, and would have almost certainly been pumping water into the ballast tube on the opposite side to correct the list as much as he could to make the pumps more effective.That added weight would have made her ride lower, exposing her to the waves more, while also increasing the load and stress on the hull which he didn't know had been critically weakened by the shoaling. Any other Captain in his shoes would have done exactly this. Same as with most disasters there's not one single event but a chain of them which brings about the end results. Adding all this to her poor condition and the heavy seas made the end result almost inevitable and well beyond foreseeing and preventing. The only change which might have saved her was if she hadn't shoaled yet that can't be said for certain if her hull was already weak there, which it probably was. Or McSorley could have returned to port when the storm began building beyond the forecasted strength, or had never left port at all which many other Captains chose to do that day. It was normalized deviance for McSorley; he'd always gotten away with tempting fate before so he thought he'd be OK doing it again- only he was wrong this time. RIP to them all.

[@kayakdog121]

As a retired captain and based on everything I know about this disaster I don't see how attempting to alter course and run the ship aground makes any sense at all. While McSorely did know he was taking on water he was still making way toward safe harbor and there was no indication that a catastrophic breakup or nosedive was imminent. Once past Caribou Island where the possible bottom strike took place the safety of Whitefish Bay was nearly as close as any possible grounding point anyway so thats absolutely where you try to go. There is no other option.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@kayakdog121 Understood...thanks for sharing your thoughts here...super interesting. HMM

[@robertarnold7187]

Excellent points and very believable. Thanks for the educated opinion. I've been fascinated by the "FITZGERALD" for years now.Still am.

[@ronaldpellet854]

I’ll watch anything on the Fitz in honor of the men who went down with her. This was very well done..

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thank you so much Ronald...and thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. HMM

[@logan_e]

I was very impressed with your guest Mr Darrell Walton, obviously a warm, open and very genuine man. Thank you and compliments on your work and dedication!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Bobby; I know Darrell appreciates it! HMM

[@hollymartins6913]

Happy Valentine's day and Happy Anniversary to Captain Darryl and his Mrs.!❤️

[@harpman6766]

Thank you Holly, for the very nice wishes for our 48th anniversary!

[@allisonoconnor8055]

I live in Duluth Minnesota. I grew up on Puget Sound. The power of Lake Superior has to truly be seen to be believed!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I'd love to take a trip north and spend some time around Superior...White Fish Point...do the whole deal. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@tjhookit]

I get the feeling that Darrell really appreciates you for taking such an interest in not only the Fitz......but more importantly the lives of those lost. Darrell would be one hell of a guy to have a beer with......he must know an awful lot about this topic. Pretty cool that he gave you that piece from the life boat!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...and I appreciate Darrell for sharing his knowledge and stories on the Mighty Fitz. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@throttlewatch4614]

Born in Marquette in 1968 these stories always hit home for me thanks for sharing

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

There certainly come home for me too...thanks for watching...HMM

[@aisle_of_view]

That Gordon Lightfoot song is awesome

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Oh I know; it's sooo powerful. Thanks for chiming in! HMM

[@ronaldpellet854]

Excellent video and that was truly an honor to hand over a prized piece of the Fitz lifeboat rope. And as I drive a lot fixing machines around the country I’ll listen to Gordon Lightfoots the wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald. And my heart always goes out to the poor men who knew their fate and to the families who knew it also. I live 500 feet from the Atlantic Ocean in north long branch NJ. I walk a lot up in Sandy hook national rec area. I’ve seen the power of water. The awesome power. And I’ve heard it said in previous videos the lake doesn’t have the rolling waves. And that makes for a whole new dynamic I don’t know. It’s hard to seperate as a ship captn the need to keep sailing as no sailing no money and the balance of the unimaginable responsibility of the crew. We are all Always just human. Even airline pilots don’t want to die in a plane crash. Yet one miscalculation or misjudgment can put them as the capt in the wheelhouse left with the last thoughts they will ever have. Here’s to the men of the mighty Fitz and to all the brave sailors who learn the language of the sea.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Super interesting thoughts Ronald; thanks for sharing them here. This is, in part, why I do these videos...to hear all this great feedback and reflection I receive. Thanks for taking the time to watch. Stop by anytime...HMM

[@kathleen5678]

My fathers cousin Bob Rafferty was on the Fitz. I remember clearly the phone call he received when she was lost. My dad waited up all night in hope Bob would be saved. Thank you for your work and effort to remember those souls lost on the mighty Fitz. Bless all the families of those lost.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Kathleen...so appreciated. I think Mr. Rafferty lived in Toledo if I'm not mistaken. I'd love to find some of his family members and talk with them, is you can help. Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew...HMM

[@kathleen5678]

@@HistoryMysteryMan they will be the Wisconsin Rafferty’s. Let me look into it.

[@kathleen5678]

@@HistoryMysteryMan his daughter has given interviews in the past. - Pam Johnson was 23 years old and pregnant with her fourth child when she picked up a newspaper that Tuesday in 1975 and learned her father had died. She is easy to find.

[@kathleen5678]

I believe she is in Toledo. My hubby was raised on Homer Street. Also possibly in Michigan.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@kathleen5678 Thank you...HMM

[@steveng8706]

For over 60 years I've lived very close to Lake Michigan. As a kid our parents used to take the family to Stearns Park in Ludington which is the Lake Michigan beach. There are two breakwalls and light houses. During winter storms we would watch unimaginable waves plummet the light house as the winter blizzard hammered everything in sight. To this day I get in my jeep and dtrive to Stearns Park and watch thunder and snow storms roll in. What a change from the calm days of spring and summer! This tradegy to this day still touches my soul. May God grant peaceful rest to the men who lost their lives and to the surviving family members of the Edmund Fitzgerald.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for sharing your story here, Steven. It'd be neat to sit at Stearns Park and watch the weather come ashore. Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. HMM

[@richardboggs260]

Excellent job!!! Wow you have a piece of rope from the Fritz after she went down how cool is that!!!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Pretty damn cool! Thanks for watching Richard; I appreciate you...HMM

[@sgtstedanko7186]

I can tell you exactly why you can't dive on the Fitz. It has entirely to do with the insurance company not wanting new evidence being brought to light in order to be used in a claim by the families.

[@vincemcmain663]

I find it creepy ship was owned by life insurance company says google

[@TillerG7]

@@vincemcmain663it was owned by Liberty Mutual Life Insurance, that’s correct. But anyone or any company could get involved in the shipping industry so long as they have the coin to invest in it. It was a booming industry back then, and it was an investment. Who it was owned by was pure coincidence.

Wrong..... Yes, diving on the Edmund Fitzgerald wreck is illegal without the Canadian government's approval. The Canadian government passed a law in 2006 that makes it illegal to dive on the Edmund Fitzgerald and two other ships in Lake Superior, and that anyone who violates the law faces a $1 million fine. The Canadian government officially recognizes the wreck as a gravesite and has declared it off-limits for further diving and exploration

[@tomgarrett6303]

Statute of limitations ran on that long time ago

[@j.l.mckelvey7569]

This was well done! Always appreciate information on the Edmond Fitzgerald!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...you're welcome! HMM

[@kimberlyevans9637]

I was born and raised in Toledo. Shoreland and Point Place. This shipwreck always haunted me. Thank you for the video...

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome. I am also from Toledo...grew up on Ketukkee (off Shoreland Dr.) for a time when I was a kid. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@kimberlyevans9637]

@@HistoryMysteryMan I went to Shoreland. I think they're tearing it down and rebuilding it.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@kimberlyevans9637 I went to Shoreland for the 5th grade. Hate to see the old building go...wish they would just preserve it.

[@Sean-fb7cy]

Appreciated ...from Ireland 🇮🇪

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Hey Ireland! Soooo cool to hear from you! I'm grateful you chimed in. Thanks for watching and share it with your peeps over there! HMM

[@Sean-fb7cy]

@@HistoryMysteryMan will do sir

[@lumberjack4356]

My grandfather sailed on the lakes for 50+ years. Last ship was the Clifford F. Hood. He became President of the International Shipmasters lodge in Cleveland Ohio. When the E Fitzgerald went down I knew Grandpa (Norbert Fahey) knew all those men and weeks of grief he endured. Bless all those lost Souls.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Your grandfather would have been a fascinating interview. Thanks for sharing your story here. God bless the souls on the Mighty Fitz. HMM

[@skullduggery3377]

i had heard about the body being discovered INSIDE the wreck but i was not aware there had been another body discovered on the lake floor. nor did i know there had ever been another vessel named the edmund fitzgerald prior to the BIG fitz...thanks for the followup.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're always welcome! Thanks...HMM

[@rickprusak9326]

Last night (Thursday Nov. 10 - 2022) My wife and I attended the 47th anniversary solemn ceremony of the disappearance and sinking of The Edmond Fitzgerald, at The Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Detroit's Belle Isle. It was attended by many people involved with Great Lakes Mariners in both the USA & Canada. There was a flotilla of boat's on both sides of the Detroit River, including Fire Department fire fighting vessel's from both Detroit & Windsor Canada spraying water into the air. A wreath of 29 red roses for each of the 29 lost crew members, plus one white rose to represent ALL the Mariners who lost their lives throughout the history of sailing The Great Lakes in America and Canada. Bag Pipers played before and during the 7:10pm laying of the wreath in the middle of the Detroit River. Musican Lee Murdock sang many Great Lakes Folk songs during the presentation which started at 6pm, in front of an anchor that the Fitzgerald lost while traveling through the Detroit River before it sank. Guitar and singer Lee Murdock sang the song that Gorden Lightfoot made famous about the wreck of The Edmond Fitzgerald. It truly was a moving night, just a few miles East of The Mariners Church where the first and continuous Church services are held every November in honor of the crew of the Edmond Fitzgerald. Glad that we attended last night.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow! Thanks for sharing this. I'm so jealous...so wish I would have attended this meaningful ceremony. Do you know if any of the Fitz's family members were in attendance? I never knew about this ceremony. If they have it every year, I'm definitely going next year. Thanks for watching, Rick! HMM

[@davebrunette6394]

Absolutely loved the videos! Captain Walton knows his stuff as well as Captain Cooper! I’ve believed for some time that the Fitzgerald bottomed on Caribou shoal. It’s the only thing that makes sense. There is a video interview with captain cooper from years ago and he said the same thing as Captain Walton. Your videos are the best and most informative on this subject.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for the great compliments Dave...so appreciated! HMM

[@sandragrant1785]

My brother's were fishermen. We lived in Detroit, but they fished out of Bradenton Beach FL and somewhere in Alaska. They knew, and had drinks with, one of the crew of Andrea Gail. The stories they told, fascinating to hear. It was so enjoyable listening to this captain today on this show...I love everything about him. There's just something so awesome about men who go out to sea. Thank you for sharing today, and I'm glad the bell was finally rung for your father.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Sandra; I appreciate you sharing your thoughts here. Capt. Darrell is easy to love! Thanks for watching and remembering the brave men you referenced. HMM

[@wht-rabt-obj]

That's one thing about Michigan, especially right on the lakes...a saying we have in Michigan is "If you don't like the weather, wait ten minutes, because it's GONMA change". Weather on the Great Lakes changes literally minute to minute sometimes.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

And that weather changed in the wrong direction for the Fitz. RIP men...HMM

[@marylynnelizabeth1631]

I work at Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company in Downtown Milwaukee...been there almost 35 years now. NML was started in 1857. That picture you show of Edmund Fitzgerald is on the 8th floor of our majestic South Office Building (with the huge Greek columns) built in 1914. All of our past Company President & CEOs are displayed in huge paintings in the hallway up there. I work on the 1st floor - just West of our gorgeous marbled and gold-Greek-themed Lobby. I believe our Board of Trustees at the time, bought the ship as an investment, and in honor of Edmund, named it after him and told him at one of the Board Meetings. I heard he was a very humble Irish Catholic man and was very flattered and almost embarrassed somewhat to get all that attention. I heard he was truly devastated when the ship went down and didn't like to talk about it since it was so heartbreaking to him and all the families who lost loved ones. Northwestern Mutual is a wonderful company. I've always felt so honored and privileged to be working there and pray I can retire from NML someday as well. I've always been fascinated by anything and everything I can learn about this ship and the unfortunate tragedy. I usually end up crying too every time I hear the Gordon Lightfoot song. For some reason, I've always felt so connected to this and I'm not quite sure why? Thank you for this video Sir! Much appreciated!!! 😊

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts here. You brought in a personal side I had not thought about...the namesake and the company behind it. I think it's awesome that you have the high level of respect for the NMLIC that you do...sounds like a gorgeous building! Thanks for watching and remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. HMM

[@karenryder6317]

I have to echo your interviewee's query--why on earth was the ship named for another ship that sank? Is it possible they didn't know there was an earlier ship of that name?

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@karenryder6317 That's a good question, and I have no idea why it happened...but it's worth investigating. Thanks for your continued support. HMM

[@GaryDavis-ir6fh]

i first bacame aware of the fitz when i first heard the song by gordon lightfoot. i love the haunting sound of the song and the story of the fitz has absolutely facinatd me ever since!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You and me both, brother...thanks Gary. HMM

[@knightsaberami01]

I remember going to college, Dad drove he was teaching me how to drive, and The Edmund Fitzgerald song cane on...I said I know this ship, what happened to her? And my Dad said, they don't know, but they think it might have been a freak wave. At the time, rogue waves, were something you experienced but you never really talked about them...until the first one, the Draupner Wave, was recorded in the North Atlantic. My Dad was a Sailor, he never talked about what he did, but when we were talking about the Fitzgerald, he did tell me one of his experiences, they were in rough seas, the hatches were all sealed, and he was lying in his bunk. The ship was forging through the waves, and then there's this one wave, she started driving into it. Said he was in his bunk, could feel the engines driving the ship down,, all the while saying come up ship, come up ship...then all of a sudden she popped up. My brother said it best, The Great Lakes, aren't lakes, they're inland seas, and he's not wrong, Chesapeake Bay is another one, and you need to be experienced, before sailing her especially in summer when the thunderstorms hit in the afternoon. Condolences to the families of this ship, Sailors were just doing their jobs, wanting to complete a task, get home, and tragedy struck, it's hard and something you never get over. Lived near the water my whole life and the water can be calm, soothing, and serenely unforgiving all in a day.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow...that's an awesome memory you share with your dad...learning about the Fitz. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and stories here...and thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. HMM

[@mbhinkle]

From Sandusky Ohio . What an excellent documentary. Enjoyed every minute. Thanks for all of your hard work in bringing this to light. Darrell and his family are the salt of the earth. Again thanks.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Mark. You said it best...Capt. Darrell...the salt of the earth. Thanks for watching! HMM

[@lorenmorelli9249]

Excellent Work!! You have a great persona for these most interesting videos.. Thanks.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Loren...super nice compliment. #Grateful...HMM

[@alanadair7169]

This follow up has been very bit as good as part one thanks for the work you’ve put into it

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Alan..l appreciate you...HMM

[@jeffdunn7474]

What a great video. Thank you! They need to make a movie about this!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Major league motion picture! Thanks Jeff...HMM

[@BrandyinBoiseID]

Love this video! It feels funny to say that because in the end it really is a tragic story but the love comes from the honor you've shown those men. A real tribute. Thank you. The Captain is an absolute treasure!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching...and thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew! HMM

[@carpenterrick186]

Absolutely another amazing edit. Thanks again for all your efforts!!! Cheers from Manitoulin Island

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks again, sir...so appreciated...HMM

[@tonys852]

Thank you again for the content. Such an interesting story. Very very interesting.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome; thanks for watching, Tony! HMM

[@banditeastlick2471]

I had family sailing in the Great Lakes in 1604

[@mikew7104]

You have produced a very well done video! Thank you. Thanks to Captain D. Walton for sharing his detailed insights on the Fitz tragedy. And to all of the Edmund Fitzgerald seaman who perished that fateful day: R. I. P.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...and especially for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. HMM

[@mickeyphillips6603]

What always fascinated me is that the Fitz was running both bilge pumps. Each pump was capable of moving 7000 gallons of water per minute. So, for her to be sinking, she was taking on more than 14,000 gallons per minute.

[@danmandich2843]

OUCH!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

That's a great observation I never realized that, or thought of it that way. Thanks for sharing that here. Mickey Phillips. HMM

[@brucemitchell4581]

Thanks for your video my friend! This is a story that has long fascinated me, as I’ve also visited the white fish bay museum, and just like you, I feel like there’s more to know about it’s story. Thanks for sharing Bruce

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

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

[@husqv5147]

Love all things Fitzgerald, right up there with the D B Cooper mystery! May the good Lord rest those 29 souls.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...yeah that DB Cooper story is beyond mind-boggling. HMM

[@sikohki_7]

Lots of interesting tidbits of knowledge to be learned by listening to Capt Darrell. 👍

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Captain Darrell rocks! Thanks...HMM

[@islesofshoals3551]

Excellent video. I could listen to you and Captain Walton all day. Thank you

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks kindly. Yep...Captain Walton is the best! HMM

[@gutpileadvocate6043]

Great Video. Great Tribute. Fair winds and Following seas gentlemen.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Kindly...HMM

[@twowaymuir]

At the age of 23 as a native of Upper Michigan while living near Mcfarland I received a call from the Union in Marquette offering me a position as a wiper on the Edmund Fitzgerald in Oct. of 1975. It would have been my 1st job as a merchant marine and my last if I had accepted it. I stopped by the docks in Marquette and looked at the ship and decided that I would rather go to Colorado and moved to Leadville CO the highest city in the nation at over 10,151 ft above sea level. So there I was when the sinking happened in Nov. high and dry instead of at the bottom of the lake off of Whitefish Point where I had fished a few times in my teens. I feel sorry for the crew that I never got to know, but have read there names listed in a video about the wreck and know that I am very lucky that I was not one of them.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow...incredible story. This is, in part, why I do this stuff...to hear these great stories that come back to me. Thanks for sharing this one here. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@jeffreymiller9808]

I hate the fact the U.S. and Canadian Coast Guard had no response at 3pm to check on Hull damage of Edmund Fitzgerald near Caribou Island but yet asked Bernie Cooper to take the Arthur Anderson back out in to those horrible conditions to check for survivors…30✝

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Yeah...sounds like the USCG was not prepared, yet had no issues with asking someone else to risk her ship and crew. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@Mark-pp7jy]

Nice presentation. Was born, and grew up in Michigan, which is the Chippewa word for "Big water". I've seen all of the Great Lakes, and still feel awe at their sight. What has always stayed with me was seeing an angry Lake Huron one day. We were somewhere near Tawas Bay, driving along lakefront homes. The waves were dark, menacing, and relentless. Scary stuff!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I get shivers just thinking about that dark water along Lake Huron. Thanks for watching, Mark. HMM

[@stratocaster1greg]

Thanks to the Walton family for all they have done. So sorry for your losses. I really enjoyed this. Thanks.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

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

[@chrispercival4193]

Incredible gift!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Very cool! Thanks for watching, Chris. HMM

[@crivket1233]

GREED ( not theirs , on the ship ) is what killed , these wonderful souls !! 😢

[@paulrash8861]

Back when men We're men, Lord be with them

[@OdinThriceGreat]

Rip Gordon Lightfoot 1938-2023

[@melissamajors4925]

Gordon

[@barbararoberto1258]

Just subscribed really liked the story, R. I. P to all on the fitzgerald.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for your subscription Barbara...and thanks for watching! HMM

[@Phyllosaurus]

Thanks!👏

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for your support! So appreciated! HMM

[@momv2pa]

I ha e been devouring Edmund Fitzgerald videos recently. While many are very good, yours has put an incredible human touch to them. What did you do with that awesome relic you were given (the piece of rope)? I pictured it in some sort of shadow box, with a plaque of some kind. Share sometime if you can. Fantastic video!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...I appreciate you. Maybe a shadow box would be better. I'm just trying to think of the best way it can be preserved. Thanks for your thoughts...HMM

[@P_RO_]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Check with a large art museum and ask to speak with their Conservator. Either they will know how to best preserve it or they will point you to an expert who knows. Their advice is freely given as they too want to see history preserved.

[@bardstables8909]

I've always been fascinated with this story. For me it all started with the song by Gordon Lightfoot. Great video sir.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Many thanks...greatly appreciated. Lightfoot's song introduced the story of the Fitz to the world. HMM

[@Brunzy1970]

New subscriber. I've got alot of videos on the Fitz. A old lumber felling saw painted with a beautiful scene of the Great ship on that night hangs above my front doors. Nov.10/1970 is my birthday so I always have been connected, just in my mind. Capt Bernie tells what he thought happened to deal the death blow to the mighty Fitzgerald and after 1,000's of hours of research I agree. The fact his fench rail was down on the port side is the smoking gun. That happened just when they were passing the shoals, and means there's a bad Crack making her twist wicked bad. Then the lack of the other three bulkheads caused the pellets to plug the pump screens up everytime see rolled. So pumps were only doing half of what they could have been doing at best. The Fitzgerald has been a part of my life since childhood. As a family we went to the locks several times watching the freighters come and go. I feel in love with the big ships picnicking there along side the locks in the 70's. Thank you for bringing attention to this preventable tragedy caused by its times. God bless all those good men who lost their lives that November Night when the Witch was raising Hell.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Jeff...Your thoughts make a lot of sense; thanks for sharing them here...HMM

[@jimschneider5193]

Absolutely the most informative video with credible knowledge yet. Thank you for the research and love shown for The Big Fitz and crew. On the morning of the 10th, I left the firehouse after a 24 hour shift, went and bought flowers and placed them in the water at Jones Island near the spot she was photographed on it's only known visit to the city that adorned her stearn. Learning about the summer and winter load lines is fascinating new information. Also a huge thank you to Captain Walden for his sharing of knowledge and truth on the matter.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Jim. I love your story...placing flowers in the water at Jones Island...that's so honorable. Thanks for watching; I appreciate you. HMM

[@waynejones3999]

Thank you for these videos with so much information. I know my opinion doesn't matter much but in all that I've see ln about the Fitz, the fact she was about 200 feet longer than the water is deep, I can't help but think her bow hit bottom while the stern was still on the surface. I think this simply because Mcsorley wasn't able to get a call out...and I think he was probably right there at the radio because he was talking to the Anderson. I think the bow plowed into a wave and due to the flooding, the bow was forced to the bottom pretty much instantaneously, blew the windows out and it was over so fast he had no time to call out. The impact with the bottom broke her back and the momentum of the propeller flipped the stern over where it ended up. I am as sad about the Fitzgerald as I am about the Titanic. Every time I hear about or watch a documentary about ships sinking with people on board, it breaks my heart. Thanks again

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for your post, Wayne; I really enjoyed reading it. Everything you say makes perfect sense. The Fitz and the Titanic are heart-breaking stories for sure. HMM

[@waynejones3999]

@@HistoryMysteryMan every time I see documentaries on any ship, especially with loss of life, its heartbreaking. The Lusitania was another one. I know it was sunk during WW1 but I find it hard to believe any person could hit a ship like that with a torpedo knowing the loss of life would probably be huge. I just think that that submarine captain had a lot to answer for on his judgement day.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@waynejones3999 And that judgement day will come. Thanks for your support, Wayne. HMM

[@dknowles60]

there are radios in the back and allover the ship

[@machbaby]

Rest in peace, mariners of the Great Lakes.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for saying that, Eric. HMM

[@archieguitarz4700]

Thanks for helping to keep the story of the Fitzgerald alive. The lives of those brave men taken on that day shall not be forgotten.

[@stevemitz4740]

WORD's mean things! I don't get the "Brave" moniker hung on ordinary people just doing their job! BRAVE is, knowingly risking one's life or profession to save lives! Like firemen who rush into burning buildings, or [non groupthink] doctors who prescribe lifesaving ivermectin or HCQ & don't warship at the altar of Big Fraudulent, [leading cause of death]/ Pharma! i.e. risking their license to practice! But if you can call boys girls, baby killing a right, deviant sex, a life style! It's your problem! John 15-13 tell us, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." !!! I.e. Not kill 70 million babies and call it a [cough] "Right."

[@archieguitarz4700]

@@stevemitz4740 so you are implying there is no risk involved working on an ore boat in the Great Lakes in all types of weather. Well ok then.

[@mellissadalby1402]

I think your assessment of the failure of the ship is certainly reasonable. We know that the Carl D. Bradley broke in half and we also know that the huge waves cause any ship to sag and hog and the extra weight of the water in the hold (which could have been caused by banging a shoal) could very quickly exceed the maximum weight that the hull could bear. Once she got enough water in her hold (however it got there) she was doomed, especially in such a tremendous storm. Working a Merchant Mariner is not for the faint of heart, it's only June one month out of the year and it only takes ONE November storm to end you.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Well said, Mellissa. I appreciate you sharing your thoughts here; thanks for watching. HMM

[@gregsimon9061]

A very interesting story, thanks Don

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're always welcome Greg...Thanks...HMM

[@allentyson_artist1999]

You can just tell how proud he his of his family..it’s beautiful to see.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I completely agree; thanks for sharing your thoughts here. HMM

[@lonnyjaw]

Yeah Brother, I also heard from a guy at the 30th anniversary memorial, he thinks that the reason the stern went upside down is that when it broke up the torque of that huge propeller spun the stern so it flipped over.

[@johnnersinger5075]

That's exactly what happened

[@mustangmike4078]

I'm not a big fan of theory that the stern flipped from the rotation of the prop. I think she broke when the bow hit the bottom leaving the stern to float standing on end for a few short moments (because it's still buoyant) to then sink landing upside down.

[@RB-cz5jn]

Wow thank you for sharing

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

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

[@garymckee448]

Enjoyed your videos keep it up. Thanks

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Gary...HMM

[@stevekirksey9293]

I worked with a guy who’s uncle was Randsom E. Cundy they put a Budweiser on the deck for a memorial to him 😊47 years ago wow

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I love this story! Thanks for sharing it here, Steve! RIP Mr. Cundy. HMM

[@stevekirksey9293]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Your Welcome the guy I knew his name Ray Dulong it was his uncle some of the guys I worked with were from Sault Ste. Marie Mortensen,Avery, and Mike killips spelling may be off a little they said Tom farnquist was a teacher of theirs I think Mike’s dad was a tugboat capt

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@stevekirksey9293 Thanks for all the great info, Steve! HMM

[@TERoss-jk9ny]

When the Captain told his buddy on the Anderson that his handrail lines had snapped, they both knew something had flexed beyond anything they could control.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for your thoughts T.E. Ross; I appreciate you...HMM

[@motorvaderlapstrake7238]

I sailed on the lakes aboard the Robinson, Calcite II, and the Rodgers City during the summer of 1979 filling in for sailors who were on vacation. What a great experience! Hard work and great food! My roommate on the Calcite II was also on the Cedarville when it got rammed near the Mackinaw Bridge by the Topdalsfjord. That was quite a story! Thinking about the pilot house door that was dogged open. The only thing I can think of that makes sense is those poor guys knew something was bad wrong with the boat and by locking the door open, were trying to ensure an escape route in a boat that was rocking heavily. The thing was probably twisting apart, they knew it, and really what else could they do? To rough/windy to get to the lifeboats, their only hope was to sail on and try to get to safety and unfortunately never made it. I can't imagine what it would be like in that situation. I hope and pray the end was mercifully quick.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Super interesting thoughts that make sense...thanks for sharing them here. I was also working the Great Lakes in 1979! On the mighty tug James A. Hannah...pushing and towing oil barges all over the Great Lakes. Thanks for watching! HMM

[@DoubleStar92]

Nice tribute! I’m from Michigan and have always been fascinated with the story/ song, etc..

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...so appreciated...HMM

[@kristineanderson4983]

I grew up in Duluth, MN. The EF went down when I was in high school. We took it very hard as some of us knew crew members.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. HMM

[@guymerritt4860]

This is a great interview. Thanks. Very nice of you to honor Wade Walton, too.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Guy...sure do appreciate it. HMM

[@allentyson_artist1999]

You can just tell how proud he his of his family..it’s beautiful to see.

[@BMWvroom]

Excellent! Thank you very much for this sequel. I hope to visit my home state of Ohio this year (was born in Lorain and grew up in neighboring Amherst) and when I do, expect to visit the Great Lakes Museum in Toledo. Thanks again, great job on the videos!👍👍👍

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're always welcome. Say hi when you're in Toledo, my hometown! HMM

[@RH-cp6xw]

My uncle worked on the Hullette unloading these ships for years in Conneaut Ohio. I have always held an interest in The Great Lakes and shipwreck. Never will forget the Fitz and it’s horrible end.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew...and all the people who work the Great Lakes. HMM

[@shasha-muse6054]

Thank you kind sir for all your investigative research and leg work. I was 12 when the Fitzgerald went down, I remember exactly where I was and exactly what I was doing. I stopped in my tracks, sat down and began crying, even though I didn't know these men but could only imagine the hellish horror they faced as that ship tried to make its way through that storm knowing in the back of their minds'.... they wouldn't make it. My father was a navy man and would tell me how rough the ocean and the weather would get. This story has intrigued me ever since and I check in periodically for any new information. This was a superb follow-up. I'm so happy Mr. Walton gifted you with a piece of maritime history (rope). please continue on your quest for more information. Thank you!! peace and love.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching. I can't imagine how terrified they all were...so sad. Thanks for your interest...HMM

[@twisterzman]

I would like to thank you. I watched your first video, and learned so much that wasn't told before. This, this is heart wrenching. I do believe she went straight down, her bow pushed under. Perhaps the door was open because they realized she wasn't coming up, and was trying to reach the surface? This was moving, as was your last one. I don't know how many times I've wiped my eyes, but you bring the compassion, the heart, and the human aspect of this tragedy, not just the facts. You can feel your heart in your videos. Magnificent. Thank you for sharing with us. 😥

[@mrnobody8540]

I believe that door open from the force of hitting the bottom and was jammed open forever to be a sign of God taken his good men to heaven

[@GaryDavis-ir6fh]

it really is a shame that she went down with all hands. very sad indeed

[@bendeleted9155]

I accidentally bumped the screen on my phone and somehow got this video. Nice! Subscribed. 👍

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

So grateful you bumped your screen...bump on over anytime. Thanks for your subscription! HMM

[@petertuffley7475]

Thank you!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome! HMM

[@j.whiteoak6408]

Thank you, Don. This was a really great video! I've had a long-held fascination for the Edmund, and I'm watching it on this, the 47th Anniversary of the tragedy. We never forget. In my most humble and unimportant opinion, I concur with your opinions entirely. I have always subscribed to Cptn. Bernie Cooper's thoughts & opinions on the matter - mostly because he was there. He said he could see the EF on his radar, & that sailing blind (with both radars out) and in whiteout conditions, the EF was right over Six Fathom Shoal. Also, Cptn. McSorley's charts were 100 years old, & later surveys had showed the Shoal to be situated 1 mile further to the East of Caribou Island than McSorley's charts showed them to be. I think there's quite some significance in that singular detail. Investigators said there was no evidence that the EF ever touched the shoals, but along with Cptn. Cooper I have no choice but to disagree that she bottomed out. Loaded with 26k tons, she didn't need to hit bottom very hard to have done a significant amount of damage. The fact that McSorley had reported his railings as being down is a good indication of major structural damage, and he reported this to Cptn. Cooper shortly after passing by Caribou Island & Six Fathom Shoal. I don't think it's any mere coincidence. The upturned stern section of the hull may not show any evidence that she bottomed out on the shoal - but that section consists of less than 200 feet of her overall length of 729 feet, and as it's impossible to see the bottom of the 500 feet of her forward section - so that theory just doesn't fly with me. Cptn. Cooper believed that the EF was sinking from that moment on, and McSorley's reports that they were taking on water though the pumps were working, and they'd had developed a steep list. He'd lost a couple of vent covers, but they led to the gangways - not to the hold. The EF was beginning to ride lower and lower in the water, so they were losing buoyancy and taking longer to recover every time the large seas pushed them down. Based on much research I've formed a vivid mental visualisation of how this tragedy unfolded.... I can't even begin to imagine the sheer terror taking over on the bridge each time she went under, nor the sheer relief each time it popped back up..taking moments longer between each one as the EF settled lower..and lower into the water. They would have been existing between each submersion on pure hope - just 15 more miles of pure hope. Much less can I imagine the sheer terror they felt in that moment when they realised that they weren't coming up this time..... My God! The wreck shows that the two hatch covers directly behind the pilothouse (#20 & #21) are INSIDE THE HOLD, beaten into 'V' shapes.. Now how in heck do you suppose THAT happened? Jusst ONE cubic metre of water weighs one metric ton! So In my mind's eye, when those two (or three?) big rollers that Cptn. Cooper described caught up to the EF a few minutes later and hit her from behind, they would have rolled right up on her spar deck, crushing the EF under the force of tens of thousands of tons of water, and slammed right into the back of the pilothouse with catastrophic force. It would have very likely smashed the hatch-covers numbers 20 & 21 down into the hold (as they are seen on the wreck), and pushed her whole bow nose-down - and with sufficient buoyancy lost, she was not coming up this time... and that pilothouse would never see daylight ever again. ride that experts have estimated that it would have taken just 10 seconds from the surface to the bottom, 530 feet below. In the opinion of Cptn Cooper, the demise of the EF "was sudden and catastrophic".. He also believed that "she took a nose-dive", and the wreckage is proof of that. The damage to the ship's bow is indicative of a headlong nose-dive - straight into the rocky bottom of The Big Lake. I've often ventured into contemplations of what went through the minds of those poor men in the pilothouse at this point.... Exactly when did they realise that all hope of safe harbour had run out for them? At what point did the realisation hit them that they really weren't coming back up this time? Certainly SOMEONE realised that they were going down, because SOMEONE made it to the pilothouse door and managed to open it and even dogged it down... There's no way that it was left open and dogged whilst they were under way! My minds eye ventures still further into those few split seconds as the EF took her final plunge into the icy depths... They KNEW that they were going down, and i imagine that some would have tried to run for the door..while others would have remained firmly rooted to the spot in fear, their faces lit only by the pilothouse lights and instrument panels - and with every foot deeper they drscended into darkness, the pressure inside the pilothouse would have instantly risen to an unbearable, unbreathable crush - as the outside water pressure built up against the glass windows, causing the freezing lake-water to come smashing on through the pilothouse and sweeping them all, except for one, into the path of least resistance - down, down the stairs into the corridor behind the pilothouse... It's just.. Incomprehensible. It haunts me wondering which came first - the crushing inside pressure as they nose-dived down through 100 feet, 200 feet, 300 feet and to the point far beyond all human endurance.... or did the frigid waters come smashing through the pilothouse windows first ...? It haunts me, and I can only hope and pray that it was mercifully quick for all of them.... But I also give a substantial amount of headspace to the fact that the lake in that particular spot is 530 feet deep - whereas the EF was 729 feet long...so when her bow was smashing into the rocky lake bottom, at least 200 feet of her stern was still on the surface, whilst the weight of 26,000 tons of taconite (which now weighed thousands of tons more with the hold filled with water) would have driven the bow into the bottom faster than a speeding freight train, and begun tearing the superstructure apart. Added to this, the EF was still under full propulsion - driven by a 5,600kw Westinghouse powerplant tha was still spinning the shaft to its massive 19.5 foot propeller - that's a whopping 5.6 METERS! And I concur with you again here, Don - that with her bow on the bottom, and 200 feet of her stern still on the surface, that sheer weight (which was still under full propulsion) had to cause her superstructure to begin breaking up on the surface. I'm no engineer, but I believe that the massive amount of sheer torque to the still-spinning shaft under full steam would have caused the stern section to flip upside down as it ripped away from the nose-down bow section, and fully separating on it's way down and thereby dumping the 26k ton cargo in a massive pile between the two sections as the stern came to finally rest on the bottom. Furthermore, it was no secret that EF "had issues". Cptn McSorley has been quoted as saying that it actually scared him when The Fitz "did this wriggling thing" in big seas when she would twist in a way that wasn't considered characteristic of being 'normal'. I also once found a statement that said the EF's maintenance records showed that every time she was laid up the keelsons had to be rewelded - "like as if her skin was too big for her"..which may very well explain that "wriggling thing" which Cptn. McSorley spoke of. She was repeatedly overloaded and several crewmen who'd worked on her later said that they were loathe to go below decks when she was underway. So yes, there were known 'issues' - but yet again I concur that had her summer load-lines not been enforced so late in the season, then The Mighty Fitz may very well still be plying her cargo across the Great Lakes - in which case we would not be having this discussion. But 'ifs, buts and maybes' are pointless. Of course, these are just my opinion, based on everything that is possible to research on the subject, combined with my own vivid imagination and how I mentally visualise her demise. And as you say, how the EF came to be where she is doesn't really matter now. But I do think that the conclusions of the official investigation's were wrong. However, it is what it is and no amount of research or speculation can change the fact that 29 lives were lost under these tragic circumstances. Their loss of the EF had a massive impact on the entire region and the industry itself, whilst the psychological effects were felt far and wide..The sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald is, and always will be cause for much deliberation and inevitable disagreement. But on a personal and human level, each one of those 29 men all had families and friends who loved them, and who still mourn their loss. That's why it's so important to commemorate the Anniversary each year, to perpetuate their legacies, and to remember all of their devastated families in prayer. May the 29 souls who were lost on the Edmund Fitzgerald Rest in Peace, and let those who loved them find comfort and solace in their grief. Amen.

[@harpman6766]

Thankyou for a beautiful reply!

[@darrellwalton938]

Excellent reply! However, the vents were for the 'Ballast Tanks". I feel that is where the breach occurred.

[@j.whiteoak6408]

@@darrellwalton938 Hi Darrell, thank you - and thanks for the information and correction about the vents leading to the ballast tanks : ) It was explained to me that they had led to the gangways, and that they allow the sailors to traverse the length of the ship below decks, but perhaps that was incorrect? I was hoping that you might kindly explain how that works and why the ballast tanks require ventilation so that I can try to better understand it? That would be greatly appreciated - thank you! But I should say that anyway my main purpose for including this info about the vents was that so many people seem to be under the impression that the vents led to the hold, & therefore had contributed to flooding in the jog -

[@tracycreech6018]

Great job, very much enjoyed. I absolutely love history. Looking forward to more stories.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thank you Tracy...so appreciated. HMM

[@TheGhostrider9667]

Amazing. In 1977, My maternal grandfather, Richard Francis Caruzzi, had a sailing ketch “Left-Handed Yeoman” which was bound from from Lake Erie, out the Saint Lawrence Seaway, down the east coast to Florida. A November gale sank the Yeoman, and killed my grandfather. A rogue wave rolled her over while he was below checking on the diesel. His wife and stepdaughter were on deck, wearing life jackets, and were swept overboard and survived. They said it was so bad the Coast Guard wouldn’t even go out. My grandfather’s body washed ashore the next day. RIP RFC 1912-1977.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow! Thanks for sharing your story here. I'm sorry you lost your grandfather. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@TheGhostrider9667]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Thank you. I’ve sailed now for many years, always think of him. I was 10 years old when it happened. My only way of understanding is that I think he was a pretty green skipper, and didn’t have the experience in Lake Erie and knowledge of his boat, local conditions, and his own capabilities to make the right weather decision and stay in port that day. Mother Nature is always in charge.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@TheGhostrider9667 Thanks for sharing your thoughts here...HMM

[@mustangmike4078]

I wish there was excellent illustrations of the Fitzgerald like the ones Ken Marschal has done of the Titanic. There's so much more info out there on the Titanic, I wish the Fitz would get that type of attention.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I'm working on getting the Fitz more pub. Thanks again Mustang Mike! HMM

[@JCX0409]

As a Michigan native and growing up hearing Gordon lightfoots song, everything about the Fitzgerald is fascinating to me. I have a framed picture of the Fitzgerald that was of her in the storm and I’ll never leave it behind. I could listen to captain walton talk for hours about the Fitzgerald

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

The story of the Fitzgerald fascinates folks from all over the world, and I can see why you'd never part with your framed pic of the Mighty Fitz; it's a keeper! Thanks for your feedback and sharing your thoughts here. Capt. Darrell is America's Captain! HMM

[@craigpelley683]

Captain Walton is right, get that log book !! it;ll answer so many questions imo .

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching, Craig. HMM

[@dknowles60]

yea

[@billcallahan9303]

I call him "the Harley guy" to my friends I've shared your two parts with. I'm big on history too but including the Civil War & WW II. But when the Harley guy (emblem on his T-shirt) gave you that piece of rope, I know that made your hard work all worthwhile! Another big Thank You! Well done! I subbed after your part one & hope my pals did too!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Bill; I appreciate your support...HMM

[@freddonaldson197]

I’ll always remember seeing the news coverage of the Edmund Fitzgerald as a young man. RIP

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

It's interesting how we remember where we were and what we were doing. Thanks Fred...HMM

[@RonNorman-ie1nv]

It breaks my heart that we would rather pay more attention to a woman's only fans page then the history of things like the Edmund Fitzgerald the twin towers the plane crashes the Pearl harbor if we don't remember the past we're bound to repeat it

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Very well said, Ron. The people at Only Fans probably know nothing about the Mighty Fitz. Sad...this country is completely sideways and spiraling out of control and downward. HMM

[@susanfantozzi4415]

I've been on a rabbit hole dive thru Edmund Fitzgerald videos lately and have enjoyed yours very much. I'm one of those of the mind you have to watch them all as they each bring a bit of different info depending on their sources. There is a documentary video from when they went to retrieve the bell for the museum and one of the team stated they found or saw bodies in the ship. He never specified how many or any other details. Mostly they discussed how they were not allowed to photograph remains from the wreck any more. I am sure they would have had to report their findings to someone. It would be an interesting string to followup on for future updates. Just as you did report, I find videos only mention the one set of remains being found outside next to the boat. Loved your videos. Ty!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Susan; I really appreciate your kind words! Reminds me that all this time and effort I put in is making a difference. I hope you'll take some time to watch Part 1 of the recent series I did on the Fitz, if you haven't already. Thanks again...I really appreciate you. HMM

[@susanfantozzi4415]

@@HistoryMysteryMan yes I did watch the video. It was very informative. I was glad when your followup showed in my recommendations. Keep up the great work.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@susanfantozzi4415 Thanks again, Susan; I appreciate you! HMM

[@paulzarate22369]

These men should never ever be forgotten they were great Mariners doing their job to the best of their ability when mother nature got the best of them may their lives always be remembered for being the brave souls that they were and may the lessons learned from the Fitzgerald help all future Mariners

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Paul, for your heartfelt salute to the Mighty Fitz and her crew...so appreciated. HMM

[@1w598]

I'll never complain about the price of lobster, ever again. I'll appreciate & savor each bite, that much more.

[@alexlindsey6446]

Darrell Walton is such a gentleman. Sweet, kind man. So nice of him to give you a piece of rope for the actual Edmund Fitzgerald ship AFTER she sunk. It's obvious he appreciates your research and conversations with him. Wonderful content.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Alex...so appreciated. And yes...Capt. D is a gem! America's Captain. HMM

[@markalankrauss3434]

Excellent Video!!! I turned 6 on 11/10/75... reading through some comments may be bringing back some distant memories of then current events.

[@njlauren]

Thank you for this video! I thought I knew the story of the Fitzgerald. I didn't realize she may have grounded on the reef,with a 75 foot draft that is very possible. So I guess she grounded, became damaged,continued sailing then later sank. I was confused with the grounding at first, bc I believe the fitz final resting place is deep but then realized what Capt Darell was saying. I also felt uncomfortable when ppl tried to blame the captain or crew. If she had too much cargo that likely was the shipping company, and why did the coast guard even allow summer loads at that time of year. I doubt when the weather turned south that the crew failed to secure the hatches, my guess is like Mr History, that water came in from the bottom and top, would explain a lot. There were a lot of factors here, cold water makes steel brittle, add to that any weakness in the hull, large cargo and vicious seas and it is a recipe for disaster that frankly was just too much Superior is known for vicious, sudden storms, a friend of mine sails on Superior and he said that you never know. He is an experienced blue water sailor, has a blue water boat, and has gotten scared at times. It is so bad that the coast guard will not certify saling vessels used for passenger trips ( not talking private sail boosys) on Superior. I sailed on a windjammer in Maine many years ago that originally had been owned by Domino Pizza as a boat in their rewards fleet ( used as a reward for employees who had done well). They spent a lot of money on it then found out they couldn't use it. In a ways the Fitz was like the titanic,a simple story on the surface that is still raising questions as to why. With the titanic it could have been poor quality rivets, or the design was lacking in strength ,( the official board of inquiry came to the conclusion that the bottom may have detached from the shock of hitting the berg. The titanic and her sister ships were built very light to make them faster). In the end it doesn't matter in the sense that 29 men lost their lives, and a 30th became a victim, fact is the Fitz went down. Only reason the why matters is if it helps save lives; survival suits,better regulations seem to have come from this tragedy. Thanks to Capt Darrell to for sharing his family story as well as his knowledge. Ships captains are very well trained, knowledgeable ppl, glad I can learn from them.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching and remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. Your main point is right on...that we'll never know what really happened...and that it doesn't much matter anyway because it won't bring those men back. Thanks again...HMM

[@RAV1953]

Absolutely fantastic! I thought I knew quite a bit about the Fitz..... very humbled by these videos. Dear History Mystery Man, I would love to buy you lunch if we would ever have the chance to cross paths! Please keep up the very good work you are doing in regard to this. May all on the Fitz, (and beyond) Rest In Peace.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks! I appreciate your lunch invitation. I'm in the northwest Ohio region...HMM

[@aveorlando7805]

So glad you posted these fascinating pieces of that mystery. Always learn so much from your brilliance!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

In fairness...probably more of a passion than brilliance. Thanks for the nice compliment, Ave...HMM

[@josephstroupe8014]

Thank you so much for the new information. The interview was really interesting, to hear differing opinions of how she went down, as for Mr. Walton - the Fitzgeralds' 30th victim, may he rest in peace and his loved ones find closure.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome Joseph; thanks for watching...and thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew...HMM

[@danielshepley9175]

Grew up in Windsor in grade school would skip school to watch the lake freighters pushing through the straight, saw EDMUND FITZGERALD rollin through god bless the souls!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Hey now that's an awesome childhood memory; thanks for sharing it here. And thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew...HMM

[@MrGursk12]

Very interesting Thank you!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

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