The Great Lakes Experience

Dr. Andrew Nicholls, Professor & Chair

History and Social Studies Education

March 11, 2026

5-6pm, SAMC 151

Abstract: This discussion will explain how the wreck of a Canadian Great Lakes freighter (the Glenorchy) on Lake Huron in October 1924 resulted in a series of conflicting lawsuits surrounding damages to be paid on the loss of her cargo. The suits and countersuits were ultimately heard by the US Supreme Court in 1931. The High Court's decision established a new precedent in maritime insurance law that continues to be cited to this day. Glenorchy now sits at the bottom of Lake Huron, about 6 miles off Harbor Beach, Michigan. All of her crew survived, but this loss serves as a reminder that bulk transportation on the Great Lakes has always been hazardous. Ships in 1924 did not have sophisticated means of communication, weather warnings, or visual aids to assist in navigation. The loss of the Glenorchy's cargo necessitated new legal definitions of the value and liabilities assigned to maritime assets.

Open to all campus members and the public.

Event details

Dr. Stephen Vermette, Professor

Geosciences

April 30, 5-6 pm,

SAMC Atrium

Abstract: View a series of posters exploring the role of the Great Lakes in powering our weather. Think of it as a primer taking you beyond the typical four seasons, to reveal the workings of yet another set of seasons – the four lake effect seasons. Understand life on the leeward side, lake effect snow bands, the ‘Oasis effect’, how the lakes intensify and impede the formation of storms, as well as surges and seiches. Do you know what a meteotsunami or an ice tsunami is? And what of various oddities such as ice volcanoes, ice caves, pancake ice and ice balls. And how ships can be seen as if floating in the air or appear to be flipped upside down. And more…

Open to all campus members and the public.

Event details