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It's been 40 years since the 729-foot iron ore freighter the Edmund Fitzgerald sank in stormy Lake Superior, killing all 29 crew members on board. 

The Nov. 10, 1975, shipwreck inspired a song (

 by Gordon Lightfoot) and her story is surpassed only by that of the Titanic, according to the 

Several ceremonies will mark the anniversary, including one at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park in Two Harbors, Minn. 

Museums recall Fitzgerald sinking on Lake Superior 40 years ago

At 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, the lighthouse will close temporarily while the names of the crew members are read to the tolling of a ship's bell and the playing of the Naval Hymn. 

Following the ceremony, the beacon will be lit and the tower once again opened for visitors. It's the only opportunity each year when visitors can climb the tower after dark and see the lit beacon. Cost is $7.

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The Edmund Fitzgerald, The 729-foot iron ore freighter, sank in stormy Lake Superior on Nov. 10, 1975, killing all 29 crew members on board.

The names of all 29 crew members lost in the famous wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald will be read tonight at Split Rock Lighthouse on the North Shore.  The name reading will accompany a tolling of the bells, and singing of the naval hymn.  It's a recognition of the anniversary of the ship's sinking, which was 40 years ago today. It remains one of the worst shipping accidents in the history of Lake Superior.  MPR's Phil Picardi spoke with Lee Radzak, who manages Split Rock lighthouse and is well versed in the history of the wreck.

Photos: The Edmund Fitzgerald remembered, 40 years after sinking

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