145-Year Old Rye Recovered From Lake Huron Shipwreck To Craft Historic Whiskey

Scientists are working hard to bring back a historic rye variety using seeds recovered from a shipwreck that sank 145 years ago in Lake Huron.

The wooden schooner James R. Bentley was carrying a shipment of rye to Buffalo, New York, when it sank in 1878 near 40 Mile Point Lighthouse in Michigan.

The wreck was found in 1984, but the rye seeds remained untouched until now. On September 17, 2024, divers recovered the seeds from the icy waters 160 feet below the surface.

The seeds were quickly transported to Michigan State University (MSU) to find out if they could still grow.

The recovery team, led by Chad Munger, founder of Mammoth Distilling, hoped the seeds could sprout despite being underwater for over a century. “It was a delicate mission to keep the seeds in good condition,” Munger explained.

Dr. Eric Olson, a wheat expert at MSU, examined the seeds. Though they looked intact, tests showed they couldn’t germinate because their inner structures had deteriorated over time.

Video Credits: Michigan State University/YouTube

Even though the seeds couldn’t grow, scientists found another way to use them. They are now extracting DNA from the seeds to map their genetic code. Using modern technology, they hope to recreate the historic “Bentley rye” by blending its traits with current rye varieties.

“This isn’t the end”, said Dr. Olson. “We can still use the DNA to bring back Bentley rye in a new form. It’s an exciting way to connect with the past.”

In the early 1900s, Michigan was a major producer of rye. Farmers introduced popular varieties like Rosen rye, which came from Russia and was grown on South Manitou Island.

However, by the 1970s, rye farming declined as farmers switched to crops like corn and soybeans.

Munger hopes to change that by reintroducing historic rye varieties. He aims to create a Michigan Rye Trail similar to Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, which can boost local farming and tourism.

“This isn’t just about whiskey, Munger said. “It’s about honouring Michigan’s history and supporting farmers and communities.”

The team plans to use Bentley rye’s genetic material to develop new rye varieties for whiskey-making. This could help Michigan revive its farming traditions and attract visitors through unique whiskey products.

“When you drink whiskey made from Michigan rye, you’ll taste a piece of history,” Munger said.

Though the seeds may never grow, their story is far from over.

References: Michigan State University, Interesting Engineering

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