Connecting People to the Great Lakes
Project GL is a regional outreach initiative dedicated to connecting people with the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes. What began as an educational program for K–12 students has evolved into a community initiative for anyone who wants to Discover. Learn. Protect. Every session is tailored to the region: in Chicago we sail with the Lady Elgin; in the U.P. we ride out the November gale with the Fitzgerald.

Not a slideshow. An immersive Great Lakes experience.
Archival research
Sessions are built from primary sources by a trained archivist and historian.
The lakes, not just the wrecks
The freshwater system stays at the center. Wrecks are one chapter, not the whole book.
In your room
Schools, libraries, sailing clubs, I bring the story and the technology to your space, in person.
The Lakes Are Still Making Waves.
Project GL is led by a Great Lakes maritime historian and university instructor with experience in research, teaching, and fieldwork across the Great Lakes. That experience brings both the history and the Great Lakes of today into every Project GL session.
- Instructor · Great Lakes Maritime HistoryNorthern Michigan University
- M.S. Library & Information Science, Archival CertificationDominican University
- B.A. HistoryNorthern Michigan University
- PADI CertificationsAdvanced Open Water · Dry Suit · Enriched Air (Nitrox)
Navigating Together
Project GL sails alongside the museums, historians, divers, and sailing communities already doing this work. We believe in collaboration, not competition.
Project GL is grateful to every school, museum, and organization that has welcomed this work, shared in its mission, and helped carry the journey forward.
Aspen Ridge Elementary School·Birchview Elementary School·Chicago Maritime Museum·Lakeview Elementary School·Sandy Knoll Elementary School·The Interlake Steamship Company
AuTrain-Onota Public Schools·Big Bay de Noc Schools·Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum·North Star Montessori Academy·Sail Charlevoix·Three Lakes Academy
With Gratitude
Those Who Keep Her Sailing
Come Aboard ⚓ Support Project Great Lakes
For the Journey Ahead
FIDELITY CHARITABLE | S. GROSS
Technology for the Next Voyage
Bringing Great Lakes history and discovery to life through technology.
K & J WELLS
Grants are subject to a 10% indirect cost allowance.
Bring Project GL to your school, library, or community group.
Sessions are best for groups of 10–40 and run 60 minutes. Available in-person across the Great Lakes region and virtually anywhere. Fill in the log entry below and I'll be in touch within a few days.
Or email directly: projectglgreatlakes@gmail.com