EDMUND FITZGERALD, GALES OF NOV. with CAPT. DARRELL WALTON

Join me, the History Mystery Man, for another interesting sit-down with Captain Darrell Walton, whose Uncle Ralph Walton went down on the mighty ship during a nasty November storm on Lake Superior in 1975. All 29 men went to their watery graves just 15 miles from the safe harbor of Whitefish Bay. Captain Darrell discusses the final hours before the ship went down. Did it break in two on the surface first or did it nosedive to the bottom...or something else? We may never know, but Captain Darrell offers a solid explanation as to what he believes happened. Captain Darrell digs into the official reports from the United State Coast Guard for his own conclusive report of what really happened. Thanks for your support...enjoy! #HistoryMysteryMan #EdmundFitzgerald #LakeSuperior #GalesOfNovember #GreatLakes #GreatLakesShipWrecks

[@craighanks429]

Recently bought book “The Night the Fitz Went Down”. I had said in a previous message that McSorely said he didn’t care about the shape the Fitz was in. On page 79 of the book, it was reported that crewmen “demudding” the bottom of the ship (shoveling out the mud) came up on deck & reported to McSorely “the keel was loose again” to which the Captain replied “all this SOB has to do is stay together one more year, after that, I don’t care what happens to it”. That is a helluva attitude for a ship’s Captain to have & only reinforces the idea that in McSorely’s last year on the Fitz all he thought or cared about was retiring with as much pension as he could earn & getting home to his wife who’d been having recent medical problems. Which is why I believe he gambled to push thru that horrible storm instead of anchoring behind Michipicoten island & waiting it out till morning. He sure wasn’t thinking of the lives of the crew. But Captain Paquette said, “I think he just really thought that ship would get him thru”. But that doesn’t square with opinions of other crewmen who said they thought he was afraid of the Fitz & the way it handled.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow...that's super interesting. I wonder how that quote from McSorley got to Paquette? Thanks for sharing this here...HMM

[@tammiadams4001]

I feel McSorely was suffering from complacency. This would affect his decision processing as well as his attitude. The Friz was overloaded running 3 ft lower in the water for the conditions the ship came up against. McSorely should have anchored behind Michipicoten Island waiting out the storm.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@tammiadams4001 Good points Tammi. If only the good, brave Captain could go back and do it all over again. Thanks for your feedback. HMM

[@davidcampbell1899]

Gordon Lightfoot passed away May 1st in Toronto Canada. I hope someone rings the Bell one time for him, for keeping the memory of the 29 crew members alive!

[@jackmac2874]

They did…30 bell tolls, 29+1 for Gordon Lightfoot.

[@CozmoNurse]

Here here!

[@johntucker4296]

Omg. That was my 72nd birthday. I always loved this ballad but didn't realize when it happened. This native Minnesotan was on the other side of the world in 1975. It was 20+ years later when I realized that the disaster happened while I was gone. RIP to all 30.

[@lornperkins4270]

Gordon was certainly a musical master..I remember listening to him throughout the 80's I'm gonna miss him..R.I.P MR LIGHTFOOT..rest easy

[@jasonhumphry5836]

Amen

[@als1023]

I was born and raised in Michipicoten Bay, north of the wreck. This story is legendary, I remember well the day my dad phoned in Toronto to tell me aboout the ship being missing and the storm that night. This is a very good video and some incredible insights , that ring true as a bell. Thank you for posting, and all the great comments on this thread.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...we really appreciate you and your contributions here. Stop by anytime...HMM

[@jimbos1567]

I was on a Destroyer in the Vietnam Era, and we encountered a storm in the Pacific just east of Hawaii that was so bad we didn't think we were going to ever make it. The ship was old (1943) and had a lot of rusty week frame members. She twisted, bucked, and vibrated so hard every time we hit a wave, we didn't think we would recover. The maximum roll she was designed for was 56 degrees, and we were routinely taking 53 degree rolls constantly. this went on for close to three days. In the middle of the storm we lost steering control, and the Machinest Mates had to crawl into the after steering compartment and steer the ship by hand getting radio orders from the bridge. It was terrifying, and I'll never forget how scared we all were. I can't watch these interviews without getting a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes for those terrified men on that ship.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

That sounds beyond scary. But...it also adds to your character that you carry with you...better off for having the experience, as frightening as it was. Thanks for sharing your story here...and thanks for watching. HMM

[@jimbos1567]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Thank you for what you do and the nice way you do it. I had tears in my eyes just watching those video's. I guess because of my Naval experience, and having lived in Michigan, I have always felt for those poor guys on the Fitz and terror of those last minutes. You brought it home to us in some fine videos.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@jimbos1567 Thanks kindly...so appreciated. Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew...HMM

[@toddgilmore8412]

Great job guys in keeping the history of the Fitz alive. Excellent information on previous structural damage to the Fitz. Over many years some ships will suffer more damage than others through hard use.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks again, Todd...we appreciate your thoughts and contributions. HMM

[@anthonyplanas3606]

Everyone please don't forget captain Don Erickson of the William Clay Ford also went out to look for the Fitz also.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Good point Anthony...thanks for the reminders. With more than 8,000 boats on the bottom of the Great Lakes, there are so many to remember...HMM

[@mikec886]

It's a piece of history that we never forget. The power of nature is not to be played with.

[@kdyooper28]

Never knew that. Thank you. (Lived in The UP when it happened)

[@justinjohnson6251]

Thank you for adding that

[@michealgrace3020]

Lets Not Forget The Ford And Capt Erickson Pulled Anchor And Went Looking As Well

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Good points; thanks for sharing them here Micheal. HMM

[@davidmoorea1961]

The Bravest of Captain & Crew to head into a Severe Storm that they KNEW was perilous & quite possibly deadly..!!! These men (& their families/loved ones) lived a rough and laborious life. Kudos to unheralded AMERICANS! PS: My sincerest thanks to you, History Mystery Man, ..these two videos are the type & quality which keep you riveted throughout.🛟⚓️🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@davidmoorea1961 Thanks David...so appreciated! HMM

[@Houndini]

Them Captains & Crew's deserve all our respect. I seen throughout my life many times people put there own lives at risk to save & help others.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@Houndini Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew, and all the Captains and crew. HMM

[@20thCenturyManTrad]

Captain Walton, thank you for your wisdom, as a 22 year old man, we need this wisdom.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for that! It's so cool that young folks like yourself are in tune with the story of the Mighty Fitz. Happy New Year! HMM

[@darrellwalton938]

Patience is the companion of wisdom!

[@robertayers9424]

Captain Darrell is a wealth of knowledge that can't be dismissed. His theories are solid. The conversations , between you two, are remarkable! Thanks for including us! May the memories of the crew and ship carry on!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Now I like this one for sure, Robert. Thanks for putting it that way...again and again. HMM

[@hive71recordinz89]

It’s frightening when you think how fast that massive ship went down, not even a chance to cry out a distress call, so so close to home , heartbreaking RIP all 29 souls, you’ll never be forgotten.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

It certainly is. Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew...HMM

[@kriseikenbery112]

A friend of mine was up in Michigan and saw the Arthur M. Anderson going out in the channel and she waved and the Captain gave her the master salute. She was thrilled!😊

[@kevinthorrington2131]

I was born and raised on the south shore of Lake Superior. My grandfather was a commercial fisherman not far from where the Fitzgerald sank. I remember my father saying the night the Fitzgerald sank, he never saw the barometer drop so fast and that low. He said it was the worst storm he had ever seen on Superior.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Interesting...thanks for sharing your story here, Kevin. That had to have been a great childhood...being raised in that area. Sounds magical to me. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@kevinthorrington2131]

@@HistoryMysteryMan I am a 4th generation from the little village of Grand Marais. I no longer live in upper peninsula. My paternal grandfather was a captain in the coast guard at Grand Marais. My maternal grandfather was a commercial fisherman. My family has a long history on Lake Superior.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@kevinthorrington2131 What a great family history. Thanks again, Kevin...HMM

[@robertredmon6387]

As a guy born and raised in the Midwest I have a tremendous amount of respect for the men and women that work on the great lakes and also a tremendous amount of respect for the men that die on the great lakes

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts here, Robert. Well said...HMM

[@DonWhisker]

Already 47 years today. Rest in peace all 29 crew members.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

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

[@epistte]

@@HistoryMysteryMan I saw the Fitzgerald the year before it sank while on a tourist cruise in the port of Cleveland. The Fitzgerald was unloaded at the Huletts.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@epistte Interesting. Was it coming or going? Or up the Cuyahoga?

[@nicolerobertson7424]

I could listen to this Captain tell stories for the rest of my life.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You and me both! Thanks for your interest, Nicole! HMM

[@josephdowling3745]

I was onboard a destroyer headed back to Norfolk in late Mar., early April of 1982 when we encountered an early spring storm system a couple of hundred miles east of the Bahamas. We had prepared for heavy weather. Chow consisted of sandwiches and chips with bug juice to drink. The galley was secured, everything tied down. It got so rough all the crew not on duty were ordered to berthing compartments where you had to strap in with something like a seat belt to keep from being pitched on the deck. Everyone was carrying a barf bag on their belt. Going out on deck was prohibited and hatches were dogged. I had one of the surface scopes in CIC which was useless given the sea state. The waves were everywhere but the biggest were coming from the SSW and at one point were rolling us to starboard at 55°. At this point a crack was discovered amidships and all crew were ordered up to the mess deck and issued flotation devices. We were assembled in the breeze ways, sitting on the deck by Divisions. As I stated earlier, we had rolled over to 55 degrees a couple of times. When the bow went down in the troughs the stern would rise up out of the water and with the screws (props) out of the water it felt like ship was going to come apart the vibrations were so rough. In addition when the bow was up and the stern down you couldn't climb the ladders (stairs ways) as it felt like your foot was welded to the deck. When the bow was down you could climb them in two steps. Also when the storm was at its worst we took a wall of green water over the bow that blew out two bridge windows and left another loose with a crack. No one wanted to eat because of the pitch ( up and down) along with the roll (side to side) made one nauseous. Crackers and a half cup of bug juice (Kool Aid) was the meal du jour for 3 days (the length of time we were in the weather). I remember thinking about the Eddy Fitz and the song, particularly the line about how the waves turn the minutes to hours. We got word that one guy was lost off a carrier and two off a cruiser ahead of us between the Bahamas and U.S. mainland. It was an interesting and telling time aboard ship, but not one I would wish to repeat.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Whoa! This is, in part, why I do these videos...to hear the great stories that come back to me. I remember being in terrible seas in the Great Lakes Tug I worked on. First time it happened, I got so seasick. It took me a good two years before I started getting over the sea sickness. I lasted about 10 years out there before I decided I wanted to change course. Kool Aid is still one of my favorite drinks, to this day. Never knew the Bahamas got that rough. Thanks again, Joseph...HMM

[@davidcoudriet8439]

@Joseph Dowling, my Father told of the same story during WW II; of during Battle stations, some were confined to quarters, and screws shaking the whole ship like crazy when they came out of the water...

[@seththomas9105]

I was a kid growing up in Iowa when the Fitz went down, I actually remember my dad talking to some buddies about how terrible it would be to be out on water in a storm like that. At the same time I had a older cousin in the U.S.N. He told the family of some storms and rough water he had been in and that sealed the deal for me. No sailor was I going to be. God Bless all sailors world wide who have gone out and never come back.

[@thereissomecoolstuff]

Remarkable story...there were quite a few navy ships that were built in the 1980's and 1990''s that had significant cracks. The Navy Times did a story on them...how bad did the crack end up. Also where was it located? Thanks for the story and service.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@thereissomecoolstuff You're welcome! Thanks for watching...HMM

[@peter2023]

The mighty Fitz ,,,I came from the UK to Canada in ,73 ,I remember this tragedy,,they say a massive wave ,,picked up the Fitz ,when she came down she hit bottom and broke her back ,,,,,I am 73 now ,I been on these lakes when a storm rolls in ,,,,the great Gordon Lightfoot passed away yesterday ,, Canada's beloved folk singer ,RIP Gord ,go meet the Fitz boys xxx

[@gayprepperz6862]

Lightfoot and the Fitz are inextricably bound together for all time and eternity like Walter Lord and the Titanic (A Night to Remember). I don't know why, but that is a comfort to me. Lightfoot immortalized the Fitz and made sure that she would be remembered above all of the tragic histories upon those treacherous lakes.

[@USS_UtahBB-31]

The Coast Guard blamed it on crew negligence, which I don't believe for a minute. What I believe happened is this, the Fitzgerald bottomed out on caribou shoals, then he loses the vents, which causes the Fitzgerald to be taking water from both topside and below the waterline of the Fitz. Then, the Fitzgerald slows down to let the Anderson catch up to her. Then the Anderson is hit by those three rogue waves and then about 30 or 45 minutes later (I could be incorrect with timing) as the Fitzgerald is going into another wave, the first rogue wave slams into her stern pushing her forward end underwater, the second rogue wave pushes the bow into the lake bed (which explains the huge gash on the bow) and then the third wave pushed the aft section up, which put strain on the midsection and caused it to snap in half. After that, Arthur M Anderson and William Clay were headed out to the rescue and as they say, the rest is history. Another fact is that Fitzgerald was able to carry 25,000 tons of iron ore. On that final voyage, she was loaded with 26,200

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts here, John. Makes sense to me. HMM

[@barneyrebel0123]

I know Captain Cooper doesn't think of himself as a hero. But to me and I'm sure many others feel he is. It's great to know, after Cooper went back out, a few others pulled up anchor and went back out to search with Captain Cooper. Very strong Captains on board those boats as well as all the crews. God Bless them all.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Absolutely. And also a big salute to Captain Erickson of the William Clay Ford who also went back out to search. In fact, Erickson was the first to announce he was going...the rest followed. Thanks...HMM

[@Someyungrebel]

16:50 As a hard working 19 year old, I couldn’t agree more. Most people I’ve met from my generation don’t have much of a work ethic, and it really makes me hope I’m not the only one in my generation who sees what a problem this is.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

That said, I'm sure grateful for you and your work ethic. We are fortunate that you "get it"... thanks. HMM

[@howtosober]

I love the Celtic music at the opening of this video! The images are so haunting. A nosedive by the bow sounds like the only way this could have happened. Another documentary I watched spoke about how taconite ore is dangerously absorbent to water, absorbing 8 to 9 times its weight in water volume. It makes no sense that any Great Lakes mariners or captain that routinely transported taconite ore during that time of year, which was notorious for ship-sinking storms, would risk leaving hatches open upon departure- especially because Capts. McSorley and Cooper already knew they were headed into heavy storms at the time they left. There's a reason "batten down the hatches" is an expression. I don't discount the 'running aground' theory entirely, but I'm skeptical, especially since in Cooper's sworn testimony he said that the Fitz had cleared the shoals. Unless the ship's hull was in really bad condition and there was water leakage more rapid than what was initially described, I don't see how that could have been the only cause. I don't know how the Three Sisters ended up being discounted so quickly in some theories. It wouldn't take flooding the hatches for a rogue wave, especially a series of them, to sink a ship. It's also the only thing that explains why all 29 sailors were trapped on the ship and they never issued a distress call. Nothing else can take a ship down that quickly. The only alternative is that water got into the cargo hold another way, the taconite increased in volume rapidly as it all shifted forward or to one side, and the Fitz didn't stand a chance. If she caught one or more rogue waves from the front, that would have been enough to shift all the iron to the bow by itself. It's notable, however, that divers to the wreck report that two of the hatches were buckled inward, implying a huge downward force onto them at some point, and resultant leakage. Mike TenEyk said in an interview that it wouldn't take rogue-sized waves to cause that buckling or leakage, just the 30-ft waves constantly battering the ship may have been enough. It may be my cynicism about corporate oligarchy and the lengths they will go to for profit, but I've privately wondered if the Fitz wasn't deployed in rough conditions, with dangerous cargo, after years of possibly poor maintenance (according to some accounts), with the hope for a big insurance payout on a ship whose bankers and corporate backers knew was likely to sink. It wouldn't be the first time something like this was done. If the ship was indeed getting older and in need of more moneyed repairs, I think it's highly plausible. Sadly, I also think it's plausible that McSorley's "We're holding our own" might have been due to knowing they were utterly screwed and didn't want Cooper to take the risk of the Anderson and its crew coming back for them when he knew there was nothing anyone could do to save the Fitz. As an aside, it drives me crazy that everyone in that region insists on pronouncing Sault Sainte Marie wrong. It's not hard to say "Saul," and it is a French name, after all.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I believe there is sufficient proof based on what we already know that the Fitz slammed into the lake floor nose/bow first. Whether it tore in two upon impact or came apart on the way down remains an open question. Thanks! HMM

[@shipessex]

I was a shipfitter/loftsman at Fraser Shipyard. The summer before the ship went down we went to Thunder Bay and took "as built" dimensions off the Fitz because she was the next boat we were going to "lengthen" like we had done to the Calloway and the Green. The captain invited the 3 of us for lunch in his dining room. I was amazed how beautiful that boat was and hadn't known that she was set up for passengers. Sad day when we heard she went down. God bless the families.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Great story! Thanks for sharing it here! So you had lunch with Captain McSorley? HMM

[@darrellwalton938]

She was a "Beautiful Ship"!

[@shipessex]

I didn't remember his name at the time but when we head what happened I sure knew it!

[@erbewayne6868]

In another video there is conversation about plateing being at the Fraiser yard with the name of the Fitz chalked on it. Was that the case?

[@shipessex]

@@erbewayne6868 Lots of plates were prefabricated in preparation for the lenghtening that was planned. We usually built the 120' midbody ahead of time.

[@melodyclark4347]

Thanks for this documentary. Very well done. I was 21 when she went down. Now 68 and the story still makes me cry. God bless you.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. HMM

[@moaski]

This is by far the best and most thorough explanation of the "perfect storm" of events that led to the Fitz's demise.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...I appreciate that. HMM

[@agent1966]

...and Captain Darrell really should put all of his thoughts together and write a book.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I'll buy that book! Thanks again, Lee...HMM

[@bowslap]

I’m good for an advance copy, if Capt. Walton happens to read this.

[@jeffharrison5910]

I'd buy that book as well

[@LadyOaksNZ]

I would buy the book too !!

[@baseballgenius3093]

idk if everything he says is right but he is ok in his ideas.

[@michaelbyrne8860]

Great interview very informative, born in Bridgeport 39th and Halstead, Lake Michigan in the summer could turn you blue while swimming in it! Let alone November in the deepest of the Great Lakes would be unimaginable to be a washed in it! lost of the Fitzgerald is a sad tragedy but the Superior is the final resting place for many a sailors. November 10th 1975 for Edmund Fitzgerald marks one ending and November 10th 1775 marks the beginning for the USMC both a Naval/Marine remembrance! As Lightfoot sings "Does any one know where the love of God goes When the waves turn the minutes to hours?" That song still chocks me up when I hear that passage!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Yeah...that song grabs hold and doesn't let go...beautiful ballad. Thanks for sharing your thoughts here, and taking the time to watch...so appreciated. HMM

[@jodycarrithers6160]

The captain of the Anderson was a true hero that day...even if he didn't think he was being heroic!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Absolutely! Even those ocean salties wouldn't turn back and go help. Later on, the William Clay Ford went out to search too. Captain Bernie Cooper rocks! HMM

[@348Tobico]

The piercing vitality of the men in the opening montage is a heart stopper. They are as alive to us today as when those "staring eyes" were photographed. Very moving. We aren't looking at men long dead, we are meeting guy's as alive as we are. Captains can never afford to terrify their crew with reckless radio talk. Water never compresses but it always flows. With the big old style open compartments and the bilge system the water flowed with the rolling of the waves. I can see millions of gallons pulling her down then sloshing like in a pool or bathtub. Forward....aft.....forward....aft. Sloshing waves driven by high winds get bigger/higher in shallow waters. Water weighs appx 8.45 pounds per gallon. Imagine the weight sloshing thru the ore compartments dividing screens and bilge. How many additional tons of water were they carrying? Taconite ore is as dangerous as grain in large quantities. Farmers die every year stepping onto or into grain in storage bins akin to the ore in the compartments. It shifts like quick sand. It moves like a viscous liquid. Per the coast guards of both countries, they were infected with a laize faire attitude because they had not lost a big ship in the past few years. Why REALLY train for what just can't happen in these "modern" days of weather forecasting and better ship building. The keel is the absolute spine of a ship or boat no matter the size. Remove the strength by over stressing and patching is a sure plan for catastrophic failure. Once broken under the weight of a working load every part attached to the keel weakens and begins to fail. Failed keel is like a house of cards collapsing piece by piece. Any weakened weld could open without the strength of the keel and other structure. I cannot imagine the personal and professional risk Capt. Cooper faced by turning back to the Fitzgerald? His crew, his ship and his job and his life as well. Because the American Coast Guard had protected itself from having to act by having written safety regulations that kept smaller boats in harbor because of DANGEROUS WEATHER. I am astounded the Huey rescue helicopters went out, but those guys were then and are now crazy! They live for the saving of people in storms like this killer storm. The ripple of fate condemned more lives than "just" the dead. The shallowest waters effected by high winds and barometric low pressure make bigger, shorter waves in the Great Lakes than in most areas of the oceans. We know so much more about wind/weather/hydrology etc. Than they knew in the 1970's. Men still go down to the seas in ships and are lost but for the most part the truth that surrounds a loss is more apparent than the jumble of a--cover that you presented from the Coast Guard et. al. I do believe careers were altered on a down trajectory within the CG, but we civilians would never be allowed to know that because the causes of those transfer/demotions/stopped promotions have the potential to open the CG to law suits.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Super interesting thoughts...thanks for sharing them here. Taconite is dangerous cargo, as you pointed out with your analogy to grain. And...the weakened keel and the weakening components attached to it. You sort of brought it all together; thanks for sharing it all here. HMM

[@gregferguson2398]

Love listening to your stories about the big Fitzgerald

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Greg...so appreciated. HMM

[@craighanks429]

Tammi, yes Captain McSorely WAS distracted. His wife was having more health issues, he was on his last trip before retiring. He was thinking about everything else but his job at the moment. In his book “The Night the Fitz Went Down”, Captain Dudley Piquette of the Wilfred Sykes said when they were taking on cargo (taconite pellets) the Fitz was pulling out & he noticed many of the hatch covers on the Fitz were still not fastened down properly on the Coemings. In other words McSorely was in a big hurry. This agrees with the Coast Guard’s assessment that on the Fritz’s wreck on the bottom there were all kinds of the Kestner clamps simply hanging down on all the hatch Coemings. The investigating officer said the same thing when asked what sank the Fitz he said “complacency”.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Interesting commentary Craig; thanks for sharing it here. HMM

[@Seafarer62]

When the Fitzgerald pulled out of the Superior, WI docks, it was a Sunday. Would have meant overtime pay for the crew.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@Seafarer62 When I worked the Great Lakes, it was two weeks on and one week off all year round...12-hour shifts (6 on, 6 off around the clock). There was no overtime pay based on which day of the week it was.

[@timothyglaserr8791]

Gotta say after listening to an old interview with captain cooper and his belief that the fits was way too close to six fathom shoals and right after passing over them he suddenly had a list that that told him she’d broke her back I believe that that is probably the closest to a explanation of what happened that we will probably ever get

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Well...we'll never know for sure, but yes, I too believe the Mighty Fitz went aground and was taking water from the bottom...thanks Timothy! HMM

[@sikohki_7]

What a great interview with an individual who knows what he's talking about.👍

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...greatly appreciated. HMM

[@fbodyfan2776]

I read on a site a few days ago that all but two of the rectangular windows in the aft part of the wheelhouse were blown inward if that’s the case who ever was in control of the ship were probably incapacitated !!! And the horror for those trapped upside down in the rear of the ship if there was any air pockets would be unimaginable.. such a terrible loss for many

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

It's tragedy beyond belief. Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. HMM

[@rogerozdarski2935]

I could listen to you two talk all day and night HMM! This story is so tragic and fascinating. Thank you for you and Captain for keeping the memories of these brave men .

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks again, Roger. Always so glad to hear from you! HMM

[@lagodifuoco313]

I finally checked ✔️ off a trip on my "Bucket list" this past weekend. I took a road trip to Duluth Harbor with my 15yr old son. We got to tour the Irvin, and we saw several ships sail through the channel under the lift bridge. The Ruddy (rust bucket), the Paul R Tregurtha (1,013 feet, largest on the lakes) come in, the Barker (1,004 feet) go out, and a few others. What an incredible experience.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Love it! I'm planning a trip that way too...possibly this fall. Is the Irvin always open for tours? Thanks for sending your bucket list items in...got me energized to do the same. Thanks for your support...HMM

[@lagodifuoco313]

@HistoryMysteryMan Yes, it's open 7 days a wee

[@rileybridgham1963]

Love the video, I celebrate the Edmund Fitzgerald every November 10th each year.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I'll be celebrating right along with you, Riley. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@Peter.w]

This is a fascinating set of videos I could sit and listen to him for ages talk about the fitz and his experiences. So many mysteries remains... thanks for continuing to keep the memory alive!!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Peter...so appreciated. Stop by anytime...HMM

[@jimtaddeo1118]

Just wanted to say thank you for this awesome video , loved it ! Does Capt. Darrell have a merch. store , i'd love to buy one of those hat's he gave you . Thaks Again !!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@jimtaddeo1118 Thanks Jim. I don't believe a merch store exists but worth pursuing. HMM

[@martinkobert361]

Thank you History mystery man for all you done keeping the Edmund Fitzgerald story alive, much respect to you.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Martin...so appreciated. HMM

[@vince_vatican777]

I remember being in 5th grade in Huron, Ohio and our teacher had a discussion with the class in regards to the Fitzgerald sinking. Then my Father giving me the local news paper to read about the Fitzgerald. To this day I always remember this ship and loss of life. God Bless the crew.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for watching. The story of the Mighty Fitz never lets go. HMM

[@suehinze1566]

I was only 10 yrs old when the Fitz went down. I really hadn't learned of that tragic day until I was much older. I enjoy listening to both of you and the stories of the past. You're both very good at storytelling and make it feel like it didn't happen that long ago. My daughter lives in Algoma, and we go to the park near Bay Ship builders. It always reminds me of Edmund Fitzgerald and how she never made it back to get repaired. Every year on or near November 10th, I come here to watch your videos. Kinda my salute to the 29 men that died that day. God bless them all. Thank you for keeping her memory alive.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for coming back, Sue! I so appreciate your support. And thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. HMM

[@JohnnyLaps]

My favorite portion of this is when the Captain finds his sheets on the past repairs and damage reports.Great.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Yah...that's good stuff! Thanks for watching, John...HMM

[@JohnnyLaps]

@@HistoryMysteryMan always,turned my friends on to this as well,we are all into Maritime,water,fishing ECT.Have you considered doing a bit on Tsunamis or even great lake storms.Capt.Darrell would have alot to share I'm guessing.thanks!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@JohnnyLaps Some great ideas. Capt. Darrell and I are already talking about what we're doing next year...thanks! HMM

[@JohnnyLaps]

@@HistoryMysteryMan I will be here 👍

[@MuffyOutside]

Yesterday I was in superior and Duluth. The weather was terrible up there yesterday. 40-50 mph winds, 12ft waves out of the bay. Couldn’t help but think of the EF while going over the big bridge and looking off into the lake. Great video here, an important piece of the history in the nort woods

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Muffy...thanks for sharing your thoughts here. HMM

[@brianrollins1533]

Have enjoyed your racing content for a long time. Just recently discovered your maritime content. As a Toledo native these videos our great. Thanks for sharing!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome Brian; thanks for taking the time to check out the movies on the Great Lake Maritime industry. From one Toledo guy to another! HMM

[@RAV1953]

Yes...may they never be forgotten....RIP to all the Fitz crew members.

[@SJ-hw2we]

DdddDDdDDddFDfDDD

[@SJ-hw2we]

Udyd

[@llam8394]

Thank you Captian Walton for sharing your experience and knowledge with us. I personally understand how this one event reverberates throughout the strings of life. It certainly has for my own. I have a VERY close family connection whose story has never been publicly told but has affected our family in ways that to this day are still deafening. May those who died that night and their families be carried by Angels.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

What is your "never been publicly told" story, if I may ask? Thanks for watching...HMM

[@thebestisyettocome4114]

November 10th 1975. Great Lakes and Superior. She's not one to mess with. She determines when you live or if you die. She'll be around a lot longer than we will. She chose to take them and that vessel.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

In other words, we can't out-duel Superior in November. Great commentary...thanks! HMM

[@MarkHolt-p4w]

You guys are great. Keep this going. It's very interesting. And. Those who perished by the waves of rage, must not be forgotten. Thank you Captain Darrell Walton. History is largely, in fact, a mystery.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

We sure will...thanks! We appreciate your support! HMM

[@joecombs7468]

The keel and the keelson are two different things. The keel is basically the backbone of the ship. But The keelson is fastened on top of the keel. The keelson is supposed to stiffen the keel. A ships hull is designed to flex. If the hull does not flex then in a storm it will fracture and break sinking the ship. But if the hull flexes too much then you will get stress cracks which will weaken the hull. Eventually, over time, the stress cracks will grow enough to cause the hull to fracture and break apart. What is needed is something in between the two extremes. The keelson allows the keel to flex but is supposed to keep it from flexing too much. Cracks in the keelson weakens it and let's the keel flex more than it should.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Super interesting...thanks for providing this info. It helps understand it more. HMM

[@joecombs7468]

@@HistoryMysteryMan you are most welcome Don. I've loved ships and the sea since I was a toddler. I spent quite a few years at sea. But I finally realized if I didn't walk away my entire life would be one dimensional -- the ocean and nothing else. I miss the ocean but in exchange I got the best daughter any man could hope for.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@joecombs7468 Wow...now that's a trade that will always be worth it. I'll take the daughter over the sea any day of the week. I lasted 12 years on the Great Lakes before I decided I wanted more from life other than a tugboat and barge. Can't wait for my daughter to arrive later today. Merry Christmas...HMM

[@joecombs7468]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Merry Christmas shipmate

[@timoakes6965]

Cargo hatches weren't closed , the Coast Guard said it (official story) You said it, because they couldn't be due to negligent maintenance, the boat twisted & turned so much over the years that the hatches couldn't be dogged down _ common theme is the hatch covers weren't secure; I forget who the Captain was that said " those covers weighs tons" but unfortunately water weighs more

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Interesting commentary; thanks for sharing it here. HMM

[@richardmook3693]

Thank you for a great video. My friend Bruce Hudson always comes to mind as I learn more of the story.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Refresh my memory...you knew Bruce? Thanks again...HMM

[@rgatesoit]

I would love to sit and listen to all his sailing stories. In my early 20s I had everything filled out to submit to the Coast Guard and made contacts at a couple shipping companies, and I just sat on it. Huge regret that I didn't go work on the boats. Then there's the Fitz. The family has a cabin in Paradise (on the Bay) so we grew up watching the boats, going to Whitefish Point and the Soo. It's hard not to think of her and those men. My late Step Dad sailed for years on the Calloway and a few others. I have nothing but admiration for all these sailors.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts here...and thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew. What a great childhood you must have had in that cabin in Paradise! HMM

[@TheSailsCall]

History Mystery Man, you’ve gotta talk to a man named Ed Belanger! He’s a resident of Gaylord MI and he sailed on the Arthur M Anderson the night the Fitz went down. That would be such a cool interview!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Love to. I reached out to him on Messenger, but haven't heard back. Keeping the faith...HMM

[@gayprepperz6862]

RIP the crew of the Edmund Fitzgerald. I keep this date updated on my calendar so I can honor and memorialize the crew. Another casualty of the Witch of November. Bless them and honor them.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew! HMM

[@anthonynarozniak9725]

This man's explanation for the sinking of the Fitzgerald is the most plausible one I've ever heard, this man should be on the NTSB

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I'll buy that! Thanks for taking the time to watch, Anthony. HMM

[@jennyramirez2679]

This video popped up randomly on my feed, and I am so glad it did. Since then, I have been trying to learn as much about the Fitz as I could. I think of the horror those 29 men felt when they realized they met their end. Thank you for sharing this information

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome; thanks for taking the time to watch! And thanks for remembering the Mighty Fitz and her crew...HMM

[@billmorris166]

And a good hot July day to u HMM ..i know its not Nov,but i like listening to u and Capt Darrell anytime... Looking forward. to u remembering the "Mighty Fitz" this coming November...So grateful to u buddy,for keeping the memory of these men and the ship alive....My dad was a Seabee in WW2,,and i have his dogtags,so I'm definitely all things Navy,and the big ships that travel our lakes and oceans...B blessed my friend ..miss the cornfields of Ohio...and give Capt Darrell our best from all of your fans!!!!!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks again, Bill. Capt. D will love you for this one! I'd miss the Ohio heartland too if I was away from it for too long. Appreciate your support...helps keep me encouraged to jump back into the story of the Mighty Fitz! HMM

[@lonnyjaw]

Yeah Brother, the force of water is unbelievable at this time of year. We had a bad one a couple years ago and the force of the waves knocked the beacon light right off the end of the pier and bent the railings in! Unreal!!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

The Great Lakes can be so brutal. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@JamesReif]

Big thanks to the History Mystery Man for his interest in the Fitz and many other Great Lake shipwrecks. As its been said many times, I could listen to these two all day. Captain Darrell is wealth of knowledge and many of us truly appreciate his highly credible knowledge and experience. Growing up in Michigan, I've met many old timers just like Capt. Darrell. For many of us who grew up and lived near or on the Great Lakes, these stories are our history and we are still learning so much, thanks to accounts and creators like the HMM.. May the fallen sailors and captains never be forgotten.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Very well said James...remembering as you did our sailors and captains. And thanks for supporting what we do; it's always appreciated. Capt. Darrell is the best! HMM

[@andrewnorris1514]

Darrell I had 4 brothers growing up. Your folks did a great job . Brother Tom is just as interesting to listen to as your self thanks for sharing 👍

[@darrellwalton938]

Thank you very much for your kind words!

[@rvt2239]

Thank you for these interviews. I'm from the South but my mom's family is all from various areas around the lakes. The Fitz has always had a great deal of mythos to me and it is incredible to hear all of this.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...so appreciated! Happy New Year from the History Mystery Man!

[@jodyvillalobos357]

What am amazing video HMM! I was a small child when the mighty Fitz went down. I'm originally from Illinois, now I live in Arizona. My respects will be paid to the courageous crew, and the big Fitz. Loved this interview! Quite an amazing Cap he is! Outstanding job my friend!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Jody...so appreciated. Whereabouts in Illinois are your from? HMM

[@jodyvillalobos357]

@@HistoryMysteryMan Born and raised in Macomb. Home of WIU

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@jodyvillalobos357 Isn't that where the old Macomb County Courthouse is...the one that Abraham Lincoln tried cases in? I could be wrong on that, but if I'm right, I've been in that courthouse...thanks! Huge Lincoln fan here...HMM

[@jodyvillalobos357]

@@HistoryMysteryMan No you're correct. The McDonough County courthouse is where Lincoln practiced law you are exactly correct sir

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@jodyvillalobos357 Thanks. I have covered Illinois from one end to the other "Looking for Lincoln" HMM

[@KubotaBXathome]

I have always believed the Fitz demise exactly how the Captain described. A real privilege seeing and hearing him again this year. Thanks so much for doing and posting!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome; thanks for coming back! HMM

[@kevinhoffman1562]

Thank you for your videos... I've always been fascinated by the Edmund Fitzgerald since reading a Great Lakes Shipwrecks book (bought from a historical museum in Petoskey, MI) and your videos inspired me to do some more research and I found out I'm related to one of the men who perished. I was watching your video from last year where you were standing in front of Watchman William J. Spengler's former house in Toledo. You mentioned not much was known about him, so after finding a couple of articles in the Toledo Blade (thanks google newspaper archives) from the week of the wreck I saw he was from the Archbold, Oh area. I remember my father telling me that my grandma (who grew up in Detroit and Bryan/Defiance/Archbold) talked about being related to the Spengler's (I thought in reference to the Spangler's candy company in Bryan.) Long story short after some digging found out that William Jacob Spengler Jr. and my Grandmother were 2nd cousins as her paternal grandmother was his grandfathers older sister. I'm unsure if they met as he was 8 years older so likely had already joined the Navy when she moved to Bryan from Detroit. Anyhow, he had a 15 year Navy career and was wounded aboard the USS Maryland during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Small world.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Wow...super interesting info; thanks for sharing it here. Would you by chance have any photos of William Spengler?

[@jakespeed63]

Incredible information Pops unloaded iron ore at Cleveland’s Erie Ore Dock. I was just a wee lad and those boats were the biggest thing I’d ever scene. He honestly never worked the Fitzgerald, but still rings close to home. The Great Lakes can be wicked. Even on a friend’s 52’ trawler, you’d get tossed around. And she weighed 26 tons Thanks for sharing

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Part of the reason I do these videos is to hear all these cool stories shared here. Thanks for sharing yours, jakespeed63! HMM

[@terrielilley3456]

"don't tell me no more mom". Lol. What a great two-parter! So happy I found this channel. Always been struck by this tragedy, living along the shore Lake Erie in NE Ohio. I understand why must edit some content, yet would've been cool to hear it all.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for finding me! I live in your same neck of the woods, most of my life. And I worked on the Great Lakes for 12 years. Capt. Darrell is amazing! HMM

[@smokey213964]

The Captain of the William Clay Ford went out and searched also.

[@DonRRicks]

If memory serves me correctly, and I’m knocking on the door to 68 so that’s not definite, I watched an earlier video that said that the families of the 29 men received $600 per man. As the captain said, something is not right with the official reports. $17,400 was the cumulative value of these men. My heart aches for the families to know this

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Seems to me I remember that $600 per man number too...great memory! Thanks for your interest in the Mighty Fitz and her crew. Thanks again, Don R...HMM (I'm a Don R too)

[@DonRRicks]

@@HistoryMysteryMan my “official” name given to me at birth is Donnie Ray. Last name also begins with an “R”. Like Bruce Hudson, I was a Mopar man in my younger years. My 1971 Demon 340 was my first, but I gave that to my new bride in 74 and bought a 68 Roadrunner 383, 4 speed. There’s something about muscle cars and late teens-early 20s guys.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@DonRRicks No doubt. Those muscle cars are part of our culture. Thanks for your support Donnie Ray. HMM

[@spiralrose]

Thank you for the documentaries on the Edmund Fitzgerald, I watch every single one! Please don’t forget though, to make note of the music and the artist that you use in your uploads so I can hunt them down and look them up. I’d love to know who was playing that song in the beginning.

[@billmorris166]

Another awesome video, HMM... I could listen to you and Capt Darrell for hours .. what a wealth of information both of you all are!!!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks again, Bill...always glad to get your feedback! HMM

[@TC-bg7up]

It is close to my heart ,she went down on my eleventh birthday.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

The story of the Mighty Fitz tugs at hearts for sure; thanks for watching! HMM

[@kevineich5029]

I hope you are going to have more videos with Captain Darrell Walton.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Yes sir...coming in October. Thanks for your interest...HMM

[@difreighterwatcher8603]

Thank you for sharing this interview. This man is a Fountain of Knowledge and has the life experience to back it up. I would love to see him dispute the many videos Ric Mixter has done on the Fitzgerald where he still to this day blames the Crew for not fastening the Hatch covers properly. Parrots the Authorities conclusions and dismisses any possibility that other factors were the cause of the Sinking. I've been a Freighter fanatic for decades and have read anything about the Fitzgerald I could find. I couldn't believe the hatch cover explanation and was never satisfied with the "Official Story". This gentleman was the first person to lay out ALL the information and I agree with his conclusions. Thank you again for sharing, and I enjoy your channel, looking forward to new content.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Super interesting perspective; thanks for sharing it here. We'll never know exactly what happened, and the loose hatch cover theory is on the table...everything's on the table, but I lean toward Capt. Darrell's explanation, which is also supported by Capt. Cooper on the Anderson, who was in same sea. I tend to go with people who were there, and have been there. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@difreighterwatcher8603]

@@HistoryMysteryMan your right we will never know exactly what happened, and nothing should be ruled out. I always believed the media narrative about the sinking, but since the internet I have found so many stories from people with different perspectives. I agree with what Bernie Cooper said is the closest thing to fact, he was there, and his experienced Opinions should carry the most weight. Thanks again for sharing the interview and replying to my comments.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@difreighterwatcher8603 You're welcome! I mean, Capt. Cooper was there...in the same sea. His opinion matters most to me. HMM

[@TommyTheCat42]

Thank you for shedding some much needed light on this haunting mystery…

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

You're welcome; thanks for watching! HMM

[@agent1966]

Hey! Thanks for these vids. I've recently been stung by the Fitzgerald "bug". Not really even sure why, perhaps it was remembering the Gordon Ligthfoot song as a youth. After watching many videos on the subject, and listening all of the theories, I think Cap Darrell and Cap Cooper are the ones that have the right scenario for her loss. She was "submarined" by the "3-Sisters", this possibly due to the overloading, bottoming out and taking on water and losing that extra buoyancy needed to recover after being hit and having her Stern lifted. The damage to the front of ship bares tells me she went into the lakebed hard. It is a terrible thought to even think of what those men in the bridge were thinking and feeling as that happened.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I can't imagine the fear they went through. Thanks for taking an interest in the Mighty Fitz and her crew, Lee...so appreciated. By the way the pilot house is all twisted up, you know it landed hard on Superior's bottom. HMM

[@douglasmeek9774]

Bless all the men and families for their loss!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Amen Douglas; thanks for watching...HMM

[@jeff6146]

Now that's Class , Respect and Dedication

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Jeff...HMM

[@DavidMiller-f4s]

Awesome interview

[@davidcoudriet8439]

God Bless ya Capt. Darrell

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for that, David! HMM

[@bf2945ify]

Happy 76th birthday Captain Walton. Truly enjoy your raw and honest insight on these various tragedies . Look forward to more videos from you. Also thank you HMM.

[@darrellwalton938]

Thank you very much for the kind words! Hopefully I’ll make another 76! Ha-ha

[@hugechimp]

Brilliant. The most revealing docs on the EF I've seen. What a great get in Capt. Darrell and the preservation of that history. Again, TY, Sir. Subscribed.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...and thanks for your subscription! HMM

[@YouAintChris]

Fascinating perspective here. Much respect to Capt. Darrell. It’s also interesting to look at some of the similarities between the FAA’s debacle surrounding ValuJet Airlines compared to both the USCG and CCG’s handling and report of the Fitz.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks. I'll have to check into that comparison you spoke of...sounds interesting. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@Trouble-Clef]

I live on the west coast of Vancouver Island and the Pacific is my backyard. But once while passing through Ontario I saw Lake Superior and until I saw it I couldn’t picture it’s size. Even then I only saw but a fraction of but it was like looking at the ocean. It was hard to believe it was a lake. You can see it’s size on a map but until you truly see it you can’t appreciate it.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Well said. I get that feeling on all the Great Lakes...like looking out over an ocean. Vancouver Island sounds amazing. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@williammitchell4417]

Scary after all these years, we still learn about the Fitz.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I guess we'll never really know what happened for sure. That's why we keep coming back for more...thanks William! HMM

[@neilnaiman2566]

Very good summary of the cause of the Fitzgerald’s sinking. I sailed with Cleveland Cliffs in the early 70’s and saw the Fitz numerous times while locking through the Soo. I’ve read most of the literature and reports and the Captain’s story makes the most sense. While not experiencing anything like the weather in November 75, I have witnessed first hand the groaning of the steel while the ship twisted at midship. Easy to see while standing aft looking forward. Very noisy and visible movement of the ship while experiencing heavy seas. I will always remember that. November 10 remains a very emotional day for me.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Understood Neil...thanks for sharing your thoughts here. I can't imagine hearing those giant freighters creak and groan...must be especially eerie. Thanks for your service on the Great Lakes! HMM

[@AvengerII]

There was a video of a Russian (?) cargo ship posted years ago that was designed much like the Edmund Fitzgerald -- long and very narrow-waisted. You could see this ship bending very noticeably in the middle and bow and stern bobbing up. The ship finally broke in half which was the obvious end. It was like the 2 ships that broke up on the Great Lakes previous to the Fitzgerald, including that had a survivor who lived to the 2000s. The crew of that Russian(?) cargo ship were all saved by nearby vessels but the fact that they continue to design, build, and sail ships like this after numerous accidents with similar designs and poor maintenance records is unconscionable. The British had a cargo ship called MV Derbyshire that sank south of Japan in 1980. In broad respects, this was similar to the Fitzgerald design except she was MUCH bigger and had her pilot house/bridge at the aft/bow of the ship. A rogue wave was also blamed in her sinking. 44 people died; no one survived. That was 42 crew plus two of their wives! It was a 91,000+ ton ship, far bigger than the Titanic and the largest British ship ever lost at sea.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@AvengerII Thanks for chiming in with your interesting info. Yes...both the Daniel J. Morrell (sank in Lake Huron in 1966) and the Carl D. Bradley (sank in Lake Michigan in 1958) had survivors. The Derbyshire would be an interesting video story. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@tmayer0009]

Thank you so much for sharing with us. The knowledge and your theories which I agree with. I have followed since 1971 when I got to see her in Huron Ohio at the age of 8 years old. God Bless all that perished that night and their loved ones that were left behind. The legend shall live on forever with people keeping their memory alive. I will always put blame on the Coast Guard for having all of the ships laid up, shame on them! Thank you again History Mystery Man for sharing this again on the 47th anniversary of her sinking. Hopefully and may they rest in peace.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks kindly. You saw the Fitz in Huron? HMM

[@tmayer0009]

@@HistoryMysteryMan yes I did, she was picking up taconite or coal I can’t remember. Wish I could share the picture of her that I have

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@tmayer0009 If you find the pic, I'd love to see it...thanks again! HMM

[@tmayer0009]

@@HistoryMysteryMan give me a Facebook page or someplace I can send it to you and I sure will

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

@@tmayer0009 Email me at [e-mail]. Thanks...

[@meng737]

Well done. Thank you for your work and the Captain's willingness and great demeanor!

[@beberle9641]

If this happened today all the families would have sued the pants off the Coast Guard's unpreparedness and this time of year that is crazy. Thanks Don and Darrell for more great history and mystery.

[@spaceflight1019]

Not true. As we learned after the loss of the El Faro, the ultimate responsibility for the ship lies with its master, or the Captain.

[@beberle9641]

@@spaceflight1019 It's understood thanks for letting me know. Thanks it's good to learn something new every day.

[@spaceflight1019]

@@beberle9641 The El Faro was unique in that it had a bridge audio recorder. It took the Navy's submersible to find it in 15,000 feet of water. They transcribed it, and it's available online. I highly suggest reading it, but with one caveat: once you begin you won't want to stop.

[@davidkiser5250]

Many thanks to you for doing this (now annually) and keeping the story of the Fitz alive. Until your video last year (which I only found a few days ago) I was not familiar with Captain Walton but as others have said he is an AMAZING person and resource! I was first hooked by the song when I was a kid-even with no boating/sailing background-the song is so well written I could FEEL the fright of being on the doomed ship (a testimony to Lightfoot's writing). When I was a teenager in the early 1980s, my local library had a copy of "Gales of November" and I read it several times over. The library assisted me in finding my own copy in the late 80's since it was already out of print (and obviously before the Internet and Amazon) and I think I paid about $65 for it back then but it's a treasured book. I once made a "Crew List" of the Fitz and matted it and framed in next to a matching frame of the lyrics of the song, and had it displayed for years in my home. I hope to get to the area some day-maybe '25 for the 50th anniversary???

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks for sharing your stories here, David...super interesting. I'm a bit embarrassed, but I've never read the Gales of November; I need to get on that. HMM

[@ajbaumgart4774]

Once again sir job well done I find it so amazing Mr walton has given you some piece's of history that's so amazing that is a big trust bond there I just find Mr walton to be a amazing man from what I get told is all sailor's of the lakes on tugs or ships you all are brothers and sisters out there

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Aj...so appreciated. I've come to look forward to your input! HMM

[@lanerailvideo5928]

My wife, son, & I were one the Carnival Ecstasy during Hurricane Sandy. We were delayed a day in getting back to our final port as we had to wait for her passing. Once she got by we followed her a few hundred miles behind. Even from that distance we still experienced some real good swells. We were towards the bow on the starboard side above the first full window above the red line. The gales were strong gust to near 70 mph, & the swells were large, the largest we ever seen. Water hit our window 3 times. Will not as wild as some folks stories are it wild in its own right. My wife licensed for the Great Lakes to operate the big boats, later learned that our ship sustained damage on that trip, & had to be dry docked for structural repair. The ship was just a few degrees from taken on water too. Despite it being a crazy first big ocean trip for the 3 of us we all enjoyed it, & had many great memories. My wife, & I wanted to have one last ride on her but it wasn't to be, & now the ship in the ship grave yard in Allaga Turkey.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Awesome stories...thanks for sharing them here! Did you get seasick in the rough seas? I had that problem for my first two years when I worked the Great Lakes tug and barges. Thanks for watching...HMM

[@andrewnorris1514]

That's really great viewing. Thank you for sharing. You 2 make a good team

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks andrew...so appreciated. HMM

[@martinkobert361]

Darrel Walton you lived a assume adventurous life my hat is off to you & your father, thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@darrellwalton938]

Thanks for watching. Life is to be experienced and enjoyed no matter what the consequences.

[@SeanBarrett-gw9km]

Really enjoying these videos men. Thanks very much for putting the time and effort into them. I was born in November 91, 16 years after the Fitzgerald went down but like so many others, I’m drawn in by it. Here’s hoping you both can do some more videos in the future, and Captain D… your humour has tickled me throughout! HMM, could you let me know what the name of the music you use for the intro and throughout is? I would love to find a full recording of it if possible. Cheers in advance. Best wishes from the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Sean...so honored to hear from Scotland. Isle of Skye...man that sounds like a kick-ass place. HMM

[@readelundy7620]

I was on the Eisenhower in rough seas for 3 days! Scary as hell!!! I can’t imagine being on a little boat in rough weather. In the weather they were in you would be lucky to survive 20 minutes in the water! RIP!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

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

[@TheU-hv8qj]

What a great interview! Thanks.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

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

[@winstonsmith2237]

thank you for sharing. I can't imagine how horrible this storm was that day... so close to the safety of the bay but she went down in a second.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

I know...it's so hard to think about how terrified they must have been. Thanks for watching, Winston. HMM

[@wirelesswavewirelesswave]

In one of your interviews Darrell you were mentioning of recovering the ships log book, That might be an idea but keep in mind the ship hit bottom and was pushed along for a distance until the mid section stressed out and collapsed in upon itself, The water entering the bow section was fast n fierce taking everything to the lower part of the bow as it filled with in coming flood of water, From what I know is the passageway is blocked and filled with debris coming from higher up. Also the stern section should be in much better condition to search, First in was slowed by the collapsing of the mid-section and turned over ( capsizing ) when it was still at or near the surface of the water, As it turned over and was on its way to the bottom of the lake air would've been trapped inside by the sudden event, Things found in the stern section maybe in more of an intact condition the the what we see of the bow section. The speed of which the stern ended up on the bottom is noted as very fast due to the cargo ( pellets ) being found on the stern hull section. Also back to the grounding event , Has any piece of the hull from below the water line where the red anti fouling paint is located been brought up from the wreck ? If the rock(s) from the shoal area can be located and brought up the paint may still be embedded on the rocks surface. Much like when a vehicle collision occurs paint transfers from one to the other surfaces, The paints can be analyzed and compared with both samples.

[@darrellwalton938]

The chances of the logbook being intact, are very low in my opinion. However, I believe it was a personal diary of someone that was found on the Titanic, and was brought up and restored. That's amazing to have survived that long. I guess we will never know.

[@wirelesswavewirelesswave]

@@darrellwalton938 The idea is sound yes if documents are recovered they can can be saved and restored, It's just finding it is the hard part. On the other side of things a journey to the stern section is going to happen at some point soon as the fuel oil in the tanks will have to be hot tapped before they start to leak oil... So there will be another dive to the ships wreckage. If a part of the hull from below the water line and close to the keel area could be brought up a paint analysis could be compared to the rock sample if found and recovered. The area where the ship collapsed in upon itself is the midsection and I think that is where the hull impacted the bottom as the weight of the ship and it's cargo has the most movement during a storm, The twisting and bouncing up and down and pitching side ways with wave action the center or mid ship is where the movement is the strongest and most notable.The bow and stern may have had the clearance for the shoal area but possibly not the most flexible part of the vessel the mid ship section, I understand about the liabilities of the corporate world and/or government policies. It's policy of deniability is better then accountability leading to liability claims etc. ( case in point TWA 800 ) I think the case with the Fitz is somewhat a near do well report it skims over certain facts and omits others. It is really not as in depth as it could've been done. I think they shut the door to soon on it. Today's technology could unlock the mystery behind the vessels demise we just have to implement it for good use.

[@montanamountainmen6104]

I think the Fitz " Nose dived" off Caribou Island. The sinking was so fast and harsh the men had 0 chance to get out.

[@adamsatchell4407]

I loved the First Episode you two did Together, I love the Knowledge that he has of the Great Lakes and the shipping industry. I'm from MN And Love Duluth MN I love the Grat lakes All of them So I am Fascinated With the big ships.

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks Adam; I appreciate your interest in the Great Lakes maritime industry. Stop by anytime...HMM

[@20thCenturyManTrad]

The Fitzgerald is a big thing in my hometown of Sault Sainte Marie, Captain Walton, God bless you!

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

As it should be! Thanks again! HMM

[@nw8000]

I could listen to you guys all day, Great Interview

[@HistoryMysteryMan]

Thanks...so appreciated. Captain Darrell rocks! HMM