Students visit the National Museum of the Great Lakes

On Wednesday, October 30, TRECA Digital Academy students visited the National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo, OH.

Students began their tour on the Ohio tugboat, which was originally used as a fire tug. During its life as a tug for The Great Lakes Towing Company, the Ohio towed thousands of freighters and barges. Each tow contributed to the economic development of the Great Lakes region and the North American continent. The Ohio is currently being renovated thanks to the help of several volunteers.

Students then toured the Col. James M. Schoonmaker freighter, which is 617 feet long. The ship held the title of “Queen of the Lakes” as the largest ship operating on the Great Lakes until April 14, 1914. Students were able to see and learn about different parts of the ship, and were able to get an idea of what it would be like on the ship if it were still in operation. Some of the stops included the cargo hold, galley, engine room, officer’s dining room, owner’s cabin, and pilot house. 

After touring the ships, students then took a self-guided tour of the museum, learning about advances in maritime technology, how the Great Lakes supported North American Indians and Europeans, how the lakes shaped the Industrial Revolution, and how deadly storms on the Great Lakes can be.

Thank you to the National Museum of the Great Lakes for a wonderful tour, and keeping the history of the Great Lakes alive!