Superior, Lake

Lake, the most northwesterly of the Great Lakes of North America. It is the largest body of fresh water on the globe. The general shape is oval, with the ends curved to the southwest. Measured on a curve, its greatest length is 420 miles; greatest breadth, 167 miles; area, 31,200 square miles. It is as large as Ireland. The surface is 602 feet above sea level. A large part of the bottom lies in a fold of the earth 300 feet below sea level. The northern shore is bold throughout. The southern shore varies from extensive flats to steep cliffs 300 feet high. Numerous islands are found along the shores, both north and south. The largest is Isle Royal. It is noted for its harborage, for good fishing, and as a summer resort. Fine lake trout weighing five to twenty pounds may be taken with hook and line from the cliffs. The border line between Canada and the United States passes just north of the island. The largest stream received by Lake Superior is the St. Louis River. Saint Mary's River is the outlet. Immense deposits of iron ore in Minnesota and Wisconsin and copper in Michigan are tributary. A large fleet is employed in carrying ores, grain, and lumber eastward, and coal, salt, and other heavy commodities westward. The whaleback, a half submerged freight boat shaped not unlike a whale, is a recent development in shipbuilding. The chief ports are Duluth in Minnesota, Superior and Ashland in Wisconsin, Marquette in Michigan, and Port Arthur and Port William in Ontario. The waters of the lake are remarkably clear and are stocked with fine fish, giving employment to many men. See Pictured Rocks; Duluth; Great Lakes; Trout; St. Lawrence