Message from Liz Jurkacek:

The spring and summer, 2005, we had been working diligently on the David A. Wells.  These images you are viewing are from Peter Schneider, one of our members.  In June, on one of the clearest possible days, we had amazing visibility and began tagging portions of the wreck.  Along for the day was Mike Beeks (seen in the white and blue drysuit), Peter Schneider and myself, the project manager.  Our captain for the day was Cliff Kleuver.  We cleaned up some old tapes that remained from last year and took a good look at the wreck. It is approximately 125 feet long and 40 feet wide.  In the passage of time the wreck has spread out.  The David A. Wells sank in October 1880 during a terrible storm.  The interesting/challenging aspect of the wreck is that she rests almost completely buried in the lake bottom.  These images show the rails, gunnels, capstan, bilge pump and some of the decking.

In July we worked over three days to lay tapes, take measurements and begin our surveying process.  Our next task is to identify all of the tagged items, complete the survey and do a thorough site evaluation.  A lot of work and help is needed.  All members are welcome to join us.