USS Huron

Site Info
Type	{{{type}}}
Coordinates	"N75°37'51.3"W 35°58'39.0"N 75°37'51.3"W
Region	US Atlantic coast
Access via	Shore
Depth range	5-30ft

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[[Category:{{{type}}}]]

The USS Huron is a shoreline historical wreck near Nag's Head in the Outer Banks of NC. An informational exhibit is located in the gazebo at the Bladen Street beach access.

Details

The Huron site is located approximately 250 yards from the beach. During the summer months, buoys mark the bow and stern of the wreck. Divers and snorkelers who visit the site can see a wide variety of sea life as they swim over the remains of the historic warship. Many portions of the wreck hold points of interest such as boilers, cannonball storage racks, and the huge propeller and rudder.

During the 1870s, the ship's cannons and much of its machinery were salvaged. Over the years, time and the elements have eroded parts of the ship. The lower hull is well preserved, however, and portions of the bow remain intact up to the main deck level. A thick layer of concretion and marine growth now covers the site, hiding many structural features. Because the Huron site is close to shore, shifting sands are constantly covering and uncovering various portions of the wreck.

History

The Huron departed Hampton Roads on 23 November 1877 for a scientific cruise on the coast of Cuba. Soon after her departure, Huron ran aground off Nags Head, North Carolina in heavy weather, and was wrecked shortly after 1 a.m. next morning. For a time, her crew worked in relatively little danger, attempting to free their ship, but she soon heeled over, carrying 98 officers and men to their deaths. Of the fatalities 83 remains were recovered and buried; of which the remains of 8 officers and 61 men were identified while 14 others could not be identified.

Location

The Huron is 250 yards off Bladen Street beach in Nag's Head, between mileposts 11 and 12.

Depth

5-30ft.

Conditions

Visibility is reported to be typically between 5-10 ft.

Facilities

There are freshwater showers at the beach access that can be used for rinsing.

See

Life

You may encounter sea turtles, porpoises, starfish, lobster, rays and skates, sharks, angelfish and grouper.

Safety

Nearby

The tugboat Explorer is nearby in about 10ft of water. It is north of the Nag's Head Fishing Pier about halfway between it and the Huron.