Historical Marker Unveiled at Barkers Island in Honor of Fitzgerald’s Sinking

SUPERIOR, WIS. — People from around the Twin Ports gathered at Barker’s Island for the unveiling of the new Wisconsin state historical marker commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Edmund Fitzgerald sinking.

Through the efforts of the local group, Friends of the Fitz, and the Wisconsin Historical Society’s State Historical Markers Program, Superior has officially installed a historical marker to remember the tragedy and the twenty-nine crew members who lost their lives on Lake Superior in 1975. The marker recognizes the ship’s lasting impact on Great Lakes history and the Twin Ports’ deep connection to the

“This is about keeping the story alive, keeping the memory of those men alive,” said Mayor Jim Paine, City of Superior. “It is a beautiful path on Barker’s Island. Come stop, read the memorial. That is your only duty to just read this marker, learn, and remember.”

Mayor Paine says the history is significant because fifty years ago today, the ship left Superior’s ore docks with twenty-nine crew members, three of whom originated from the Twin Ports.

“I was really humbled by how many people came out to shiver with us today,” said Jenny VanSickle, Friends of the Fitz. “Again, the response has been overwhelming, really positive, so generous, and we have an entire region, an entire community, to thank. We’re really grateful.”

Organizers say they will continue recognizing the milestones of the Edmund Fitzgerald through to the end of its final journey.