1935 Chevrolet to Be Recovered from Big Detroit Lake, Honoring 70-Year-Old Local Legend

On January 15, 2025, Detroit Lakes will mark a powerful moment in its history as a 1935 Chevrolet 2-door Convertible is pulled from the icy depths of Big Detroit Lake, exactly 70 years after it sank. The car was part of a tragic accident that claimed the life of 19-year-old James McCabe.
James and his brother, Jack McCabe, aged 26, were checking on area fishermen on January 15, 1955, when the car plunged through thin ice. The ice in the area had been recently refrozen after an ice harvesting operation. Jack survived, but James tragically lost his life. Over the decades, the McCabe brothers’ story passed from memory to local legend.
The recovery, led by Gary “Seal” Thompson of Tri-State Diving, is a collaborative effort with local volunteers, the Becker County Historical Society and Museum, and the Detroit Lakes Fire Department, whose predecessors responded to the original incident. Thompson, known for his expertise in underwater recoveries, will use advanced diving equipment to safely bring the car to the surface.
The car will then undergo cleaning and preservation, with plans to potentially restore it. Volunteers hope the restored car can be sold to fund future preservation efforts and exhibits at the Becker County Museum, ensuring the McCabe brothers’ story continues to be shared for generations.
Becky Mitchell, Director of the Becker County Historical Society, calls the recovery a chance to honor the McCabe brothers and reflect on the community’s shared history: “We are grateful to everyone involved in bringing this car to the surface after so many years.”
The recovery effort will begin early on January 15 and is expected to draw significant interest. This historic event highlights the community’s dedication to preserving and celebrating its past.