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	Shore
Depth range	5-30ft

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"{{{type}}}" is not in the list (Cavern, Cave, Wreck, Lake, Reef, Cove, Inlet) of allowed values for the "Has site type" property.

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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.

Sketch map of location of Huron and Explorer tug relative to nearby streets and Nag's Head Fishing Pier

Depth

5-30ft.

Topography

• USS Huron shipwreck profile sketch
  USS Huron shipwreck profile sketch
• USS Huron shipwreck plan sketch
  USS Huron shipwreck plan sketch

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.

Rules

Collecting artifacts from the wreck is prohibited. USS Huron and other shipwreck sites in North Carolina waters are protected by state and federal law. It is illegal to remove artifacts or disturb a shipwreck site without a valid permit. If you observe an unusual or important artifact, please do not disturb it. Note the artifact's location and report it to the Underwater Archaeology Branch or local authorities.

See

Life

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

Bull and hammerhead sharks have been reported around the wreck.

Safety

Full body covering (wetsuit, skinsuit etc) recommended as the waters can contain jellyfish. Be wary of poor visibility and shifting currents.

Hazards

Popular site for spearfishers and anglers.

Nearby

The tugboat Explorer lies roughly halfway between the Huron and Nag's Head Fishing Pier to the south. It is in about 10 ft of water. Online reports suggest it can be dived on the return swim from the Huron.

Media

2015 Huron dive

2016 Huron dive