In Wisconsin, ice driving is commonplace, particularly for activities like ice fishing. However, there’s a notable distinction between casually parking on solid ice for fishing and attempting to traverse an entire lake for no real purpose. Around 1980, this distinction was highlighted when a man, after enjoying a few drinks at a bar in Stockbridge, Wisconsin, confidently wagered that he could drive his four-door 1973 Ford Galaxie 500 across the frozen expanse of Lake Winnebago to Oshkosh, located about ten miles distant. Notably, Lake Winnebago is the state’s largest inland lake, and the Galaxie is a substantial vehicle, weighing between 3,900 to 4,000 lbs. Nevertheless, emboldened by liquid courage, he decided to take on the challenge.
Unfortunately, his attempt ended in failure. Roughly two miles from Twilight Beach Road on the eastern shore, the ice beneath gave way, causing the Galaxie to plunge directly into the depths below. Fortunately, the driver was able to exit the vehicle before it sank entirely and made his way back to the shore, albeit soaked.
The most disheartening aspect was that the car’s disappearance led many to dismiss the story as a mere myth when there was no physical evidence. According to local resident Tom Zahringer speaking to WLUK-TV FOX 11, “There’s many discrepancies on the car and the true story. It’s been passed around for about 45 or 46 years now.” Many assumed it was wholly fictional. However, about three years ago, a fisherman named Randy Bodinger, from the nearby town of Chilton, validated the tale when his sonar detected an unmistakable object resting in the mud.
The Recovery Operation
Bodinger shared with the news outlet that the discovery was quite tense. Finding a vehicle submerged in a lake raises the possibility that someone might still be inside. He promptly reported his discovery to the authorities, but for a time, there was no further action. It’s relatively common for classic cars to be discovered submerged in lakes like this. However, the situation changed in early March of 2026 when a team from Sunk Dive Ice was dispatched to assess the site and determine the car’s depth.
On March 3, the recovery effort commenced. The team utilized an ice-cutting machine and a crane, while a diver went underwater to secure the Galaxie to the rigging. The entire operation lasted roughly four hours, and a video shared on YouTube by Sunk Dive Ice captures the moment the vehicle surfaced, starting with the rear bumper, followed by the trunk lid, wheels, and finally the rest of the car. Interestingly, the original red paint remained largely intact.
However, the vehicle’s roof had severely deteriorated due to rust, and both the windshield and rear window were missing. Inside, only mud remained, with clams and snail shells clinging to whatever remained of the metal. As for the engine, modern car engines struggle underwater, and one that’s been submerged for over forty years is far beyond repair. Zahringer mentioned that many individuals had come to view the car and indicated plans to keep it on display before deciding if someone might wish to claim it.
The Ford Galaxie 500’s Legacy
The Ford Galaxie has a fascinating history. It was first used as the designation for the most luxurious version of the Fairlane 500 in 1959, coinciding with the country’s enthusiasm for space exploration, making it a fitting name for the era. By 1960, Ford established it as its own distinct model, which continued through four generations until the last was produced in 1974.
The 1973 model that ended up submerged in Lake Winnebago was part of this fourth and final generation, which spanned from 1969 to 1974. These were sizable vehicles, sitting on a 121-inch wheelbase, and offered a wide range of engines from Ford’s 385 series V8 lineup. Notably, the 1973 model introduced Ford’s 460-cubic-inch V8, the largest engine ever installed in a Galaxie. However, similar to other vehicles from the early 1970s, this model faced challenges due to stringent emissions regulations that diminished its power. By 1974, Ford quietly phased out the Galaxie name in favor of the LTD, marking the end of an era. Today, fourth-generation Galaxies remain among the more budget-friendly classic Ford options available in the secondary market.
