Great Lakes & Seaway Shipping News Archive

American Mariner Update

04/30:
The American Mariner cleared Lake Huron downbound at Buoys 1 and 2 north of the Blue Water Bridge around 6:00 p.m. Saturday evening. The Mariner is bound for Ashtabula, Ohio. The Malcolm Marine tug Manitou was escorting the vessel and it is not clear if the tug will continue all the way to Ohio or not.

The Mariner is drawing 25 feet and maintaining a normal rate of speed. A large gash on the starboard side above the bow thruster was plainly visible at the waterline.

Reported by: Jamie Kerwin, William Bailey, Dave Wobser, Linda Stoetzer, W. Fitzgerald, Don Detloff, and Roger LeLievre

Pathfinder in Cleveland

04/30:
The barge Pathfinder was at a stone dock on the Cuyahoga River being loaded with stone Saturday. The tug Dorothy Ann was removed from the notch and was docked downriver from the bow of the barge.

Also in the river was the American Republic. She was unloading ore at the LTV steel mill at noon.

Reported by: Rex Cassidy

Busy Day for Mail Boat

04/30:
The flood of traffic moving through the Detroit River Saturday made for a busy day at the J.W. Westcott Company. Westcott boats serviced 21 vessels between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. It was necessary to call in a second crew and utilize both The J.W. Westcott II and back up boat Joseph J. Hogan to service all the traffic.

Reported by: Sam Buchanan

Catherine Desgagnes Unloads

04/30:
On Saturday the Catherine Desgagnes was unloading pig iron at the Marinette fuel and dock.

Desgagnes unloading she is docked at the William H. Donner.

Reported by: Scott Best and Sandy Chapman

Iroquois Lock Update

04/30:
Below are images of vessels in the Seaway passing through the Iroquois Lock sailing for Montreal.

Aegean Sea.
Aegean Sea stern view departing lock.
Mountain Blossom approaching lock.


Reported by: Peter Carter

Boland Part of Parade

04/30:
An amendment to the Saturday American Mariner Update, one ship was forgotten. The John J. Boland was downbound after the John G. Munson.

Reported by: Jamie Kerwin

Today in Great Lakes History - April 30

The IRVIN L. CLYMER returned to service April 30, 1988 after a two season lay-up.

HOWARD HINDMAN (2) grounded heavily when her steering cable parted at Little Rapids Cut in the St. Marys River, April 30, 1969. Due to the extensive damage, she was sold later in May of that year to Marine Salvage Ltd., Port Colborne, Ont. for scrap.

The RED WING (2) tow arrived at Kaohsiung, Taiwan on April 30, 1987 for dismantling.

The steel-hulled bulk carrier SHENANGO was launched on April 30, 1909.

On 30 April 1842, the side-wheeler COMMODORE BARRIE collided with the schooner CANADA about 10 miles off Long Point in Lake Ontario. The COMMODORE BARRIE became disabled and then sank about an hour and a half later. Her passengers and crew were rescued by the CANADA.

Data from: Jody Aho, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

American Mariner Update

04/29: 10:00 a.m. update
The American Mariner made a call this morning at around 2:55 a.m. to say that the off loading of cargo was complete and that the vessel would be proceeding up to anchor in Lake Huron north of Lights 11 and 12 for inspection. By 3:45 a.m. the Mariner was clear of the channel and the Lake Huron Cut was opened to vessel traffic.

Vessel traffic resumed with the upbound traffic proceeding first. The lineup was as follows: Algolake, Dora, Mljet, Saginaw, James R. Barker (stopped at Shell to refuel) Jean Parisian, and the Calcite II.
The downbound traffic then started: tugs Wisconsin, Wyoming and Pennsylvannia, Paul R. Tregurtha, Algosteel, Rt. Hon. Paul J. Martin, Reserve, CSL Niagara, John G. Munson, John J. Boland, Federal Agno, Earl W. Oglebay, Regina Oldendorff, John B. Aird, St. Clair, Algomarine, and the Walter J. McCarthy.

It was quite a sight to see all the vessel coming down in a line. The last upbounder (the Calcite II) cleared Lights 1 and 2 north of the Blue Water Bridge at around 6:15 a.m. The Paul R. Tregurtha, who was already downbound at lights 3 and 4, was soon on her way down the river.

Reported by: Jamie Kerwin

American Mariner Update

04/29:
Last night, the 730-foot self-unloading bulk carrier American Mariner, which ran aground in Lake Huron early Friday remains in the same position with its full load of taconite ore remaining on board. The vessel was bound for Ashtabula, Ohio to offload its cargo of taconite ore.

The vessel’s crew has controlled flooding that resulted from damage to the bow. Commercial assistance is on-scene, and a dive survey was conducted to determine the full extent of underwater damage. This survey revealed a 30-foot by 10-foot tear in the forepeak and another 6 inch wide tear on the starboard bow stretching nearly 25-feet. Flooding from this damage was so severe that the forward cargo hold and tunnels flooded. Temporary repairs were underway Friday evening to control the flooding.

At midnight the vessel planned to lighten by offloading 3,100 tons of cargo from the number one hold into the Adam E. Cornelius who was alongside the Mariner. Both vessels are owned by the American Steamship Company.

Representatives from The U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office (USCG MSO) Detroit were on board the vessel completing an investigation and working with the crew to determine the safest way to refloat the vessel. All indications to this point are the incident did not result from Great Lakes low water conditions and were the cause of a steering failure.

Because the American Mariner is blocking the channel, the U. S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port of Detroit continued last night to maintain its emergency safety zone, temporarily closing the area to commercial navigation. So far, the river closure has delayed twenty-three vessels.

Images taken yesterday from The U.S. Coast Guard
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
Image 4
Image 5

Check back throughout the day for updates.

Reported by: Jon A. Moran, Jim Hoffman, Larry Stocking and Andrew Severson.

Delayed Vessels

04/29:
The Sarnia Traffic center was preparing for vessel movement once the channel has been cleared.
Upbound traffic waiting to resume last night: 1. Jean Parisien anchored below Recors Point, 2. James R. Barker at St. Clair Edison, 3. Algolake Imperial Oil, 4. Calcite II below Recors Point, 5. ML Jet Indian Point, 6. Saginaw North Slip, 7. Dora Indian Point.

Downbound: 1. Federal Agnew, 2. Paul R. Tregurtha, 3. Algosteel, 4. Rt. Hon. Paul Martin, 5. Reserve, 6. Adam E. Cornelius (proceeded upbound to take on cargo from the Mariner), 7. Regina Oldendorf, 8. CSL Niagara, 9. Emerald L. All downbound were anchored in Lake Huron.

At the Belle Isle Anchorage off Detroit Friday evening was the Frontenac, Canadian Prospector, and the saltie Clipper Falcon.

Reported by: Andrew Severson, Barry Hiscocks and Ken Kilbreath

USS Updates

04/29:
Among the vessels delayed Friday by the closing of the St. Clair River were three belonging to USS Great Lakes Fleet. Calcite II was reported to be anchored in the St. Clair River; John G. Munson was expected to arrive in Ashtabula on April 29 but times were unknown because the vessel was on Lake Huron waiting for the river to reopen; and Myron C. Taylor was upbound in the rivers for Gladstone and then Brevort, but arrival times at those ports were unclear because of the closure.

Edwin H. Gott was unloading in Nanticoke on April 28. It's due to make another trip to DMIR in Duluth to take on another load of pellets for Nanticoke. Philip R. Clarke was shuttling between Buffalo and Fairport. It was due to leave Buffalo on the 29th and arrive in Fairport later that day to take another load for Buffalo on May 1.

Reported by: Al Miller

Traffic Rerouted

04/29:
A ship waiting at anchor can cost its operator thousands of dollars an hour. As a result of the Mariners grounding, many shipping companies have all ready rerouted their vessels around the bottle neck in Lake Huron.

One vessel is the Lee A. Tregurtha. As the Tregurtha was approaching Marquette to load for Rouge Steel in Detroit, they received a change in orders. The vessel will now load in Taconite Harbor with the load possibly heading for Indiana Harbor.

Reported by: Bob Gilreath

Integrity and Jacklyn M. Enters Bayship

04/29:
Early Friday morning the Lafarge Corporation barge Integrity and tug Jacklyn M. were proceeding slowly into Sturgeon Bay off Lake Michigan on calm waters.

The tug and barge were heading for Bay Shipbuilding to have repair work done one of the tugs engines.

Reported by: Paul Graf

Twin Ports Report

04/29:
Charles M. Beeghly made one of its infrequent calls to the Twin Ports when it arrived April 27 to unload at the Reiss Inland dock. It then proceeded to Midwest Energy Terminal, where it was loading coal on the morning of April 28. It was due to depart later in the day to deliver that coal to the power plant at Taconite Harbor.

Louis R. Desmarais made a rare call at the BNSF ore dock on April 27.

Reported by: Al Miller

Ferry Strike

04/29:
The Seafarer's International Union (SIU) have begun a strike against Ontario Northland Transportation Service affecting the sailing of the vessels "Jimann" and "Pelee Islander".

The vessels provide service on Lake Erie between Leamington/Kingsville and Pelee Island in Ontario and Sandusky, Ohio.

Both vessels are currently berthed at their facilities in Leamington while the strike is in progress. Ontario Northland is offering air service between Leamington and Pelee Island at the present time.

Vessel crews are seeking a wage increase of the same percentage offered to officers of the fleet. It is reported that officers received a wage increase of 1.5 % more than other crew members.

Access to Pelee Island is available only by air or water. Pelee Island is located just south of Pelee Passage in western Lake Erie.

Reported by: Les Reading

Vessel Traffic Near Brockville

04/29:
Below are images of vessels in the Seaway passing Brockville Friday.

Algowest upbound for Detroit.
Rubin Hawk who had departed Hamilton for Montreal.

Reported by: Peter Carter

Today in Great Lakes History - April 29

On April 29, 1975, the Sam Laud entered service.

Launched this date in 1976 was the a) SOODOC (2)

On April 29, 1977 while inbound at Lorain, the IRVING S. OLDS hit a bridge on the Black River which extensively damaged her bow, tying up traffic for several hours.

A fender boom fell on the GEORGE M. HUMPHREY's pilot house in the Poe Lock at the Soo in 1971.

On 29 April 1865, L.D. COWAN (wooden schooner, 165 t, built in 1848 at Erie, PA) was driven ashore near Pointe aux Barques, MI in a storm and wrecked.

Data from: Jody Aho, Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

American Mariner Grounds

04/28: 4:30p.m. update
At last report the Adam E. Cornelius was moving slowly on Lake Huron to tie up along side of the American Mariner to lighten the stricken vessel. The Cornelius was sailing light (no cargo) from Saginaw, MI. Tugs are also on scene to assist.

The U.S. Coast Guard continues their investigation, early reports blame a steering failure for the incident.

From the beach in Port Huron a number of vessels can be seen. Algosteel, an unidentified saltie, the Paul R. Tregurtha, Reserve and Rt. Hon. Paul R. Martin. Are all waiting for the Mariner to be moved from the only navigable channel in the Lake Huron Cut. At 4:00 p.m. 21 vessels were delayed due to the grounding. Shipping companies have all ready started to rerouted vessels to avoid a delay.

Reported by: Larry Stocking.

American Mariner Grounds

04/28: 2:00p.m. update
The American Mariner remains aground Friday afternoon after grounding in lower Lake Huron early this morning. There were no reported injuries to crewmembers aboard the Mariner.

At noon at least twelve vessels had gone to anchor as traffic was suspended until the Mariner was refloated. It is unknown when traffic will resume. At 10:00 a.m. The U.S. Coast Guard announced that they were extending the temporary anchorage area south of Belle Isle in the Detroit River by 2000 feet to allow for additional vessels to anchor in this area. All vessels are required to notify the U.S. Coast Guard and the Canadian Coast Guard's Sarnia traffic center when they anchor.

The tugs Wisconsin and Pennsylvania were en route from Detroit to aid in refloating the vessel. Beyond tug assistance, it may be necessary to remove some of her taconite cargo to pull her free.

The price tag for the grounding is sure to reach into the millions, beyond the cost of repairs to the American Mariner, it can cost thousands of dollars an hour for the other vessel to remain at anchor waiting for the channel to be cleared.

While the cost is high for shipping companies, area boat watchers will be treated to a parade of vessels once traffic resumes.

Check back throughout the day for updates.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman and Andrew Severson.

American Mariner Grounds

04/28: 10:00a.m. update
The American Mariner ran aground at Light Seven in the Lake Huron cut at around 4:00 a.m. this morning. The 730-foot vessel struck the light and put a hole in the hull and her forward compartments flooded. The U.S. Coast Guard reports the damage to be to the bow, including the forepeak tank and forward cargo hold. At last report tug boats were heading to assist the vessel.

Light Seven is a large fixed concrete light a few miles north of the Blue Water Bridges in Port Huron.

The Mariner's pumps where unable to control the flooding. A 41-foot rescue boat from U.S. Coast Guard Station Port Huron and a helicopter from Air Station Detroit delivered pumps and the flooding is under control.

At last report she was sitting with what appears to be the bow section aground across the channel and all shipping traffic has been stopped. Upbound vessels are required to anchor in the St. Clair River, while downbound vessels have to anchor in Lake Huron until the channel opens.

The American Mariner is loaded with taconite and bound for Ashtabula, Ohio. The cause of the grounding is under investigation.

Images from The U.S. Coast Guard
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
Image 4
Image 5

Check back throughout the day for updates.

Reported by: Steve Bailey, Jamie Kerwin, Jim Hoffman, Larry Stocking and C. Silliven.

Cleveland Report

04/28:
On Wednesday the Saginaw was unloading stone near the West 3rd street bridge. Due to its unloading position the river was blocked to other traffic. At about 6:00 p.m. the American Republic was holding position behind the Saginaw waiting for a Great Lakes tug to pull the Saginaw downriver. The Republic was then able to continue up river to LTV.

Reported by: Rex Cassidy

Coast Guard Activity off Buffalo

04/28:
There was a multi service operation underway just off the Buffalo South Entrance at 5:00 p.m. Thursday. An unknown U.S. Coast Guard Cutter , a Canadian twin rotor Coast Guard Helicopter, and a US Air National Guard C-130 out of Niagara Falls Air Base were involved. The two aircraft were orbiting over the lake above the cutter near the Bethlehem Steel plant in Lackawanna. This appeared to be some type of training exercise.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski

Vessel Traffic Near Brockville

04/28:
Below are images of vessels in the Seaway passing Brockville Thursday.

Canadian Coast Guard's Shark
Thors River dwarfs the CCG Shark as the two vessels pass.
Jakov Sverdlov bow view. Jakov Sverdlov stern view.

Reported by: Peter Carter

Today in Great Lakes History - April 28

The 660 ft. forward section of the a) LEWIS WILSON FOY (b) OGLEBAY NORTON) was launched April 28,1977.

LAKE WABUSH (b) CAPT. HENRY JACKMAN) was christened and launched April 28, 1981

On April 28, 1971 while upbound from Sorel, Que. for Muskegon, MI with a load of pig iron, LACHINEDOC (2) struck Rock Shoal off Little Round Island in the St. Lawrence River and was beached.

On April 28, 1906 the J. PIERPONT MORGAN was launched.

April 28, 1897 - The F&PM (Flint & Pere Marquette) Steamer No. 1, bound from Milwaukee for Chicago ran ashore just north of Evanston. She released herself after a few hours.

The barge LITTLE JAKE was launched on 28 April 1875 at East Saginaw, MI. She was owned by William R. Burt & Co. Her dimensions were 132' x 29' x 9'.

Data from: Max Hanley, Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Carferry Sold

04/27:
The Ludington Daily News reported yesterday that the former Ann Arbor carferry Arthur K. Atkinson, moored at Ludington since September of 1994, has been sold. The carferry was purchased a couple of months ago by the Great Lakes Center for Marine History, based in Lansing, Michigan.

The Center is a non-profit public organization whose specialty is identifying historic Great Lakes Vessels and finding a home port for them. One of the major acquisitions of the Center was the MAPLE, a former Coast Guard vessel.

The organization, according to John Bloswick, founder and director of the Center, has already been turned down by officials of Kewaunee, Wisconsin.

The Great Lakes Center has six months to find a port and move the vessel.

Photo: The Arthur K. Atkinson moored next to the S.S. Spartan where she has been laid up since 1994.

Reported by: Max Hanley

Algosoo in for Repairs

04/27:
The Algosoo was due at the Port Colborne Piers shortly after noon Wednesday heading to the R&P Coal Docks at Wharf 16 for repairs. It is unknown at this time what type of repairs were to be done.

In other Algoma Fleet news, the Algosea is making a trip to Lower Cove to Sept-Iles to unload limestone.

Reported by: Steven Sliwka

Twin Ports Report

04/27:
Jean Parisien and Frontenac will join the parade of Canadian lakers calling at the Twin Ports early in this season. The Parisien is due at the DMIR dock on April 30 and the Frontenac is due there May 1.

Reported by: Al Miller

Salties pass Brockville

04/27:
Below are images of vessels in the Seaway passing Brockville Wednesday.

Federal Polaris
Federal Oslo notice the different stack marking, not the regular Fednav.
Tug Alice A heading for Portland, Maine.
The Canadian Coast Guard's Caribou Isle upbound.

Reported by: Peter Carter

Early Start Offsets Low Water Levels(But It Won't Last)

04/27:
Cargo movement in U.S.-Flag lakers totaled 3.5 million net tons in March, an increase of 365,000 tons compared to a year ago. The increase reflects the earlier start-up of navigation as carriers attempt to offset the reduced loads that come with lower water levels.

Increases in future months are uncertain and probably unlikely. Once vessel utilization rates equalize with last year, the true impacts of the continued decline in water levels will become apparent. Furthermore, there is no reserve U.S.-Flag carrying capacity that can be quickly put into service this year.

Visit the Lake Carriers' Association home page for complete Details.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 27

On April 27, 1993 the WOLVERINE (4) ran aground on Surveyors Reef near Port Dolomite near Cedarville, MI and damaged her hull.

The ASHCROFT, upbound on Lake Erie in fog, collided with Interlake's steamer JAMES H. REED on April 27, 1944. The REED, fully loaded with ore, quickly sank off Port Burwell, Ont. with a loss of twelve lives. The ASHCROFT suffered extensive bow damage below the water line and was taken to Ashtabula, OH for repairs.

On April 27, 1973 the bow section of the SIDNEY E. SMITH, JR. was towed to Sarnia by the Malcolm tugs TABOGA and BARBARA ANN. The two sections of the hull were scuttled and land-filled to form a dock facing.

The WILLIAM P. SNYDER, JR. left Ecorse light on her maiden voyage April 27, 1912 for Duluth, MN to load iron ore.

On April 27, 1978 the TROISDOC (3) was downbound with corn for Cardinal, Ont. when she hit the upper end of the tie-up wall above Lock 2.

On April 27, 1980, after loading pellets in Duluth, the ENDERS M. VOORHEES stopped at the Seaway Dock to load a large wooden stairway (three sections) on deck which was taken to the AmShip yard at Lorain. It was used for an open house on the newly built EDWIN H. GOTT in 1979.

On April 27, 1953, the Reserve entered service.

On April 27, 1984, the Charles M. Beeghly struck the breakwall while departing Superior on her first trip since the 1981 season. The vessel returned to Fraser Shipyards in Superior for repairs.

On 27 April 1876, the Port Huron Times reported, "The steam barge MARY MILLS arrived up this morning and looks 'flaming'. Her owner said he did not care what color she was painted so long as it was bright red, and she has therefore come out in that color."

Data from: Jody Aho, Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Twin Ports Report

04/26:
Saltie traffic in the Twin Ports continues at a steady but unspectacular pace. On April 25, Aegean Sea at was Cargill B1 to load grain, Mina Cebi was at Peavey Connors Point and Regina Oldendorff was loading some sort of stone at Hallett 6.

The Rt. Hon. Paul R. Martin was scheduled to load at BNSF ore dock overnight April 24 and into April 25.

Midwest Energy Terminal continues to see a parade of Canadian vessels and some interesting U.S. vessels that don't frequent the Twin Ports. The latest is expected to be Charles M. Beeghly, an occasional caller, which is due April 29. The rest of the lineup includes: Algobay and Paul R. Tregurtha, April 25; Walter J. McCarthy jr., April 26; Canadian Olympic, April 27; Charles M. Beeghly, April 28; Oglebay Norton, Armco and Canadian Enterprise, April 29; Algolake, April 30; and Columbia Star and Walter J. McCarthy Jr. on May 1.

Reported by: Al Miller

KIYI Arrives

04/26:
The new 107-foot Geological Survey Vessel KIYI arrived at Bayfield, WI. Tuesday afternoon. Dedication ceremonies will take place on Friday beginning at 9:30 AM. Wisconsin Governor, Tommy Thompson and Congressman Dave Obey (D. Wis.) are among the dignitaries who will be present.

The vessel will be moored at Ashland, WI. temporarily.

Reported by: Harvey Hadland

Toledo Update

04/26:
On Tuesday the Great Laker was loading grain at Anderson's E Elevator. The Montrealais was loading grain at Anderson's K Elevator.

The J.A.W. Iglehart was tied up in front of the Shipyard drydocks undergoing bow repairs from her recent grounding at Detroit.

The Sam Laud remains in lay-up near the Shipyard. The tanker Gemini is now sailing, she left her lay-up dock over the weekend.

The Charles M. Beeghly, H. Lee White and Jean Parisien are due at the coal docks. While the Buckeye is due in at the Torco Dock.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Salties pass Brockville

04/26:
On Tuesday the Isolda and NST Challenge were in the Seaway passing Brockville. Both vessels were heading downbound for Montreal.

NST Challenge
Isolda

Reported by: Peter Carter

Lake Erie Coal Trade Triples In March

04/26:
Shipments of coal from Lake Erie ports totaled 1,194,443 net tons in March, roughly triple of a year ago. The mild winter allowed coal shipments to resume on a regular basis on March 3 from Ashtabula, one of the earliest starts ever.

By port shipments were as follows:
Toledo - 113,169
Sandusky - 120,827
Ashtabula - 611,475
Conneaut - 348,972

Reported by: The Lake Carriers' Association

Better Start For Stone Trade

04/26:
Shipments of stone on the Great Lakes totaled 359,880 net tons in March, an increase of 85,000 tons compared to a year ago. The mild winter did allow some ports to resume operations a bit earlier this year.

Reported by: The Lake Carriers' Association

CSL on the East Coast

04/26:
The Atlantic Erie was spotted unloading gypsum at Camden NJ, in the Delaware River.

Reported by: Mike Harting

Today in Great Lakes History - April 26

ALGOWEST was launched April 26, 1982.

Sea trials were conducted April 26, 1984 on Lake Ontario for the CANADIAN RANGER.

An unfortunate incident happened on the SEWELL AVERY as four crew members were injured, one critically, when a lifeboat winch housing exploded shortly after a lifeboat drill in 1978.

CANADOC was launched April 26, 1961.

BENSON FORD (1) was launched in 1924.

In 1982, carferry service from Frankfort, MI ended forever when railroad service to that port was discontinued and the remaining boats (Arthur K. Atkinson, Viking, and City of Milwaukee) were laid up. City of Milwaukee is being preserved as a museum ship by the Society for the Preservation of the City of Milwaukee

On 26 April 1902, M.P. BARKLOW (wooden schooner, 104', 122 gt, built in 1871 at Perry, OH), loaded with salt, was anchored off S. Bass Island in Lake Erie to ride out a gale. Nevertheless she foundered and four lives were lost, the skipper, his wife, their son and one crewman.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Paul Martin and CSL Niagara in St. Mary's River

04/25:
The Rt Hon Paul J Martin was upbound in the St. Mary's River Monday on her maiden voyage, She is bound for Duluth to load ore. It is interesting to note that her sister ship CSL Niagara was upbound approximately three hours behind her. The Martin entered the Poe Lock at approximately 18:30.

Reported by: Scott McLellan

Twin Ports Report

04/25:
Vessel schedules are always subject to change, but as of April 23 the Canadian Century was scheduled to pay a rare visit to Duluth on May 3 to load at the DMIR ore docks. Presently, Edwin H. Gott is the only vessel scheduled to load at the docks this week. Indiana Harbor is scheduled to make one of its occasional calls in Two Harbors on May 2 and then again at DMIR in Duluth on May 8.

Reported by: Al Miller

Bulkers Return

04/25:
The Canadian bulker fleet continues to slowly emerge back on the Great Lakes and Seaway system. Yesterday, the Gordon C. Leitch was on her way to a St. Lawrence River port with grain from Thunder Bay, while the Montrealais has left lay-up and is bound for a Lake Erie port.

Reported by: David Swain

Chi-Cheemaun First Dinner Cruise From Owen Sound Harbor

04/25:
April 22 was the first of several dinner cruises set for the Owen Sound Bay and Islands prior to the vessel going into operation on May 5 between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island. The guests enjoyed prime rib, roast duck and locally caught white fish. Pelee Island Wine was the wine selection. The proceeds went to the Outdoor Education Center. A silent auction was held with other proceeds raised through various raffles, including a trip for two to Pelee Island. Charlie Farqhuison (Don Harron) finished the evening off with lots of laughs. Perfect weather made for a great time by all.

Reported by: Shelley Adams

Coal for Grand Haven

04/25:
On Monday the Kaye E. Barker arrived in Grand Haven with a load of coal for the power plant. The Board of Light and Power continues to use Interlake for its coal transportation this year. During the past few years, this coal has been shipped from KCBX in South Chicago. This year the coal loading ports are Conneaut and Ashtabula.

Reported by: David Swain

Chios Charity in the Seaway

04/25:
On Monday the Chios Charity was sailing downbound through the Iroquois Lock for Montreal.

Entering the lock
Stern View exiting (note spare propeller on upper works)

Peter Carter

Easter Parade

04/25:
Sunday morning under the Blue Water Bridge in Point Edward, a parade of ships proceeded upbound into Lake Huron. Starting the parade was Canada Steamship Lines Louis R. Desmarais, following less than a half mile behind was the Algobay, then the Elton Hoyt 2nd also a half mile behind, and then the Agawa Canyon shortly after the Hoyt. Finally pulling up the rear at slower pace was a Hannah tug towing one of their construction barges.

Oglebay Norton Reports Improved First Quarter 2000 Result

04/25:
On Monday the Oglebay Norton Company announced results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2000.

Oglebay Norton Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer John Lauer said, “Our first quarter performance was well within our expectations. We historically plan for a loss in the first quarter due to the seasonal nature of our Great Lakes operations. We expect to have a profitable first half for 2000.”

He continued, “Our Lime and Limestone segment had a strong quarter as comparable revenue (excluding the results from Global Stone Ingersoll and Detroit Lime companies from 1999 and Winchester from 2000) increased 9% and operating income improved by 8% over last year’s first quarter.”

As previously announced, the company completed the acquisition of Michigan Limestone Operations on April 18, 2000. The company expects his acquisition to be accretive to earnings in 2000. MLO supplies high calcium and dolomitic limestone and is the largest limestone producer on the Great Lakes with annual revenues in excess of $40 million.

Lauer added: “Sales for our Industrial Sands business reflected strong demand at our Orange County facility, which continues to operate at full capacity. In addition, oilfield demand contributed to a 35% increase in sales for our central region facilities. First quarter revenues for the segment were up 21% for the quarter with operating income up 13% compared with the same period last year.

“This quarter marks the first full quarter of operations for our Specialty Minerals business. Revenues for this unit are in line with our expectations. Our new management team is in place and working to fully integrate operations into the company.

“Mild weather conditions allowed our Marine Services segment to get off to an early start in the first quarter. Revenues for the segment were slightly off last year’s levels, declining 4% from the first quarter of 1999. Based on current bookings, we expect our fleet to operate at full capacity for the balance of the year. However, lower water levels and higher fuel costs will adversely impact earnings from this segment for the remainder of the year.”

Mr. Lauer will host a conference call with analysts at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time today which will be web-casted live in listen only mode via the Oglebay Norton Company website. It also will be available for replay starting at 2:00 p.m. until midnight May 2.

To access the live or taped web-cast, go to the Oglebay Norton Company website at www.oglebaynorton.com and click the conference call button on the home page.

Niagara Airbus launches Welland Canal Tour

04/25:
The Welland Canal "Living History" Tour will be launched by Niagara Airbus - a ground transportation company operating in Niagara Falls and the Niagara Region.

The "Living History" Tour includes a Boat Tour of Boat Dalhousie Harbour on the Capt. Peter Tenbroeck - a 12 passenger tour vessel. This 40-minute narrated Tour gives the History of Port Dalhousie - the entrance to the first three canals.

The Tour proceeds by Coach to Lock 1, then along the Canal to Lock 3. The Tour includes a visit to the Museum, and lunch at Freighters Restaurant (while observing the passage of a ship). The Tour continues with a view of the old canal in Thorold, Ontario (Neptune's Staircase) and the Flight locks, ending at Lock 7. There are many photo opportunities and the visit to Lock 3 provides a comprehensive insight into the operations of the Canal.

The Welland Canal Tour, with pickup at any Niagara Falls or St. Catharines Address (including the Inn at Lock 7) cost is $79.00 per person plus 7% Goods & Services Tax. This includes Coach Tour (guided), Lunch, the Tour at the Museum and the Boat Ride in Old Port Dalhousie.

For more information call 905-374-8111 or e-mail peterg@niagaraairbus.com

Today in Great Lakes History - April 25

The b) PAUL R. TREGURTHA was christened April 25, 1981 as the a) WILLIAM J. DE LANCEY.

On April 25, 1973 the self-unloading boom on the TADOUSSAC (2) collapsed while she was at Sandusky, OH.

In 1925 the Ann Arbor 4 was back in service after running aground on February 13th off Kewaunee, WI.

In 1973 it was announced that the City of Saginaw 31 would be scrapped after a fire which destroyed her cabin deck in 1971.

ENERCHEM LAKER was launched April 25, 1958 as a) ROCKCLIFFE HALL (2).

BENJAMIN F. FAIRLESS was launched April 25, 1942.

WILLIAM LIVINGSTONE was launched April 25, 1908.

The PERCIVAL ROBERTS, JR. sailed light on her maiden voyage April 25, 1913 from Lorain to load ore at Two Harbors, MN.

On April 25, 1954, the T.R. McLagan (now Oakglen) entered service. At 714'6", she took the title for longest vessel on the Great Lakes from the Joseph H. Thompson, beating the Thompson by three inches. The Thompson had held the honor since November 4, 1952.

METEOR (2) was launched in 1896 as a) FRANK ROCKEFELLER.

On April 25, 1949, GRAINMOTOR collided with the abutment of the railroad bridge above Lock 2 of the Lachine Canal.

The wooden schooner OTTAWA was launched on 25 April 1874 at Grand Haven, MI. She was owned by Capt. William R. Loutill and could carry 180,000 feet of lumber.

Data from: Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history.

McKee Sons to New Operator

04/24:
Lake Service Shipping Company has terminated their relationship with the Upper Lakes Barge Company. Their barge McKee Sons will now be operated under bareboat charter to the Grand River Navigation Company out of Cleveland, OH. Grand River is affiliated with the Lower Lakes Towing Company, Port Dover, ON.

The barge has been dock near the old K&K warehouse in Menominee, MI. since March and has not sailed. The McKee Sons will be paired with an ocean tug that is currently on the way to the lakes from the Gulf of Mexico. Modifications will be made to fit the tug at Menominee and then she will sail in early May to Sarnia to receive a fresh coat of paint in Lower Lakes colors. After other modifications and minor repairs she is expected to be out and operating by June 1.

Reported by: Wade P. Streeter

Rt. Hon Paul J. Martin on Maiden Voyage

04/24:
After successfully completing sea trials, Canada Steamship Lines' new SeawayMax vessel is sailing on her maiden voyage. The Rt. Hon Paul J. Martin passed Detroit Sunday afternoon sailing upbound. The vessel is scheduled to load at the Duluth DMIR Dock on April 25th at 0100.

Reported by: Mike Nicholls, David French, Jim Morris and William Bailey.

Two Bottoms

04/24:
The Algoeast, Algoma's rebottomed tanker is expected to depart Port Weller by Tuesday April 25, 2000 and enter service.

The 432-foot tanker entered Port Weller Dry Docks in December for the conversion from a single-hulled tanker to double-hulled construction. The $5.5 million (Can) project was the first conversion of this type ever done at a Canadian shipyard, and will created work for 100 shipbuilders at Port Weller Dry Docks through the winter.

The Algoeast has a cargo tank capacity of 77,999 barrels. The vessel was constructed in Japan in the 1970s, and traded most recently under the name Imperial St. Lawrence. To reduce the risk of environmental pollution, federal legislation requires that all petroleum product tankers must be double-hulled by 2008.

Reported by: Roger Tottman

Silverhead and Algosea Update

04/24:
The new name Silverhead and the new port of Registry Panama was painted on the stern of the former Enerchem Trader on April 22 in Montreal. Late that day, scaffoldings was still hanging on the stern.

Algosea, the former Ambassador completed her first trip to St. Lawrence River ports recently. After loading at Port Cartier on April 19, she headed for Contrecoeur but had to go at anchor off Tracy near Sorel to wait for the departure of another ship from that port, the Solta bound for Windsor. On April 23, Algosea was heading downbound for Port Cartier to pick up her second cargo of the season.

Reported by: René Beauchamp

Independent Moved

04/24:
The Kinsman Independent has been shifted from the General Mills Frontier Elevator to the Lake and Rail Elevator about 3 miles up the Buffalo River. She was most likely moved to make room for the Kinsman Enterprise and her winter storage cargo of grain. The Enterprise will be towed dead ship from her lay up berth at the Buffalo Port Terminal some time in the near future.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski

Twin Ports Report

04/24:
Stmr. Buckeye completed its tour of Lake Superior ports on April 23 when it loaded taconite pellets at Silver Bay. The boat started the trip by unloading stone in Superior, then loading coal in Superior for delivery to Taconite Harbor, then proceeding to Silver Bay.

Halifax made a rare call at the Midwest Energy Terminal dock on April 23 to load coal. It usually carries grain into Duluth then loads with taconite pellets at DMIR.

USS Great Lakes Fleet reported that Myron C. Taylor was delayed in departing from Carrollton because of strong river currents. John G. Munson is due at Toledo April 24 to take on another load of coal for Green Bay. GLF hasn't shipped any coal out of Midwest Energy Terminal to Nanticoke this season, but Edwin H. Gott is scheduled to load taconite pellets at DMIR ore dock in Duluth on April 25 for delivery to Nanticoke.

Reported by: Al Miller

New Fuel Dock Proposed in Calcite, MI.

04/24:
Halron Oil Company, Inc. of Green Bay, Wisconsin, has submitted plans for the installation of a three-million-gallon diesel fuel tank.

The tank will be located on Michigan Limestone Operations property near the north end of the "Frog Pond"-near the slip. Halron will lease the property from MLO and run the business independently.

The structure will include a 20-by-20 foot steel building {pump house}, 1200-feet of 6-inch pipe, and a 8-by-15 foot control station near the slip.

The tank dimensions are 131 outside diameter by 40-feet high. This will be the first double wall tank of this size in Michigan.

The tank will be used to fuel the vessels and to dispense number three diesel fuel that may be tanked out by a contracted business to area farmers or others who may need this type of fuel.

Reported by: Jerry Heinzel

The Winner Is

04/24:
The latest winner in the weekly drawing was R.G. Henderson of Bellaire, Michigan. R.G. will have his pick of the prizes listed on the User Survey page.

Included in the prizes are the new books donated by the Marine Publishing Company.

Click here to enter, you could be our winner next Monday.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 24

The ONTADOC (2) (b) MELISSA DESGAGNES) sailed from Collingwood on her maiden voyage April 24, 1975 for Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. to load steel for Duluth, MN.

The D.M. CLEMSON (2) departed Lorain on her maiden voyage April 24, 1917 to load iron ore at Duluth, MN.

The B.F. JONES (2) left Quebec April 24, 1973 in tandem with her former fleetmate EDWARD S. KENDRICK towed by the Polish tug KORAL heading for scrapping in Spain.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Easter--A time for families even among the boats

04/23:
It was a day for fleetmates along the St. Clair River Saturday. Downbound were the Southdown Conquest followed by the Southdown Challenger about one hour behind her. The upbound Philip R. Clarke passed the downbound Calcite II. The Algosar and Algonova were both at Imperial Oil, as their fleetmate, Algoway, passed by them. The Susan W. Hannah, which was downbound earlier in the day, was followed several hours later by the James A. Hannah. Paul R Tregurtha, after traveling downbound, went to anchor behind her fleetmate James R. Barker, which was unloading at the St. Clair Edison plant. Lee A Tregurtha passed both of them downbound on her way to the Rouge River. The holidays should be a time for familiar faces, even for the ladies of the lakes.

Reported by: Andrew Severson

Sun and Low Water

04/23:
The Storm that past through lower Michigan and Southern Ontario left the Soo in Sunshine. However, an unnoticeable consequence was the lack of water in the Lower Harbor Below the Soo Locks. This forced five Salties to go to anchor in Whiskey Bay above the Soo. By 8:00 a.m. Saturday they all started to proceed down and through the Locks.

Sea Trials

04/23:
On Friday the tugs Peninsula and George N. Carleton pulled Gordon C. Leitch from The Pascol Engineering's drydock in Thunder Bay, Ont. The vessel headed out the north entrance and out into the Lake Superior for sea trials.

Reported by: Ron Konkol

Great Lakes Ports O' Call TV Show

04/23:
There is a new PBS TV series entitled "Great Lakes Ports O'Call. It features a Michigan city on one of the Great Lakes each week, or two ports per week, depending on your PBS local outlet. The show gives a little local history, shopping, attractions, restaurants, etc. Their website - www.greatlakesportsocall.com lists the PBS stations that carry the show. This weeks features was Port Huron "where the St. Clair River flows INTO Lake Huron". Outside of the occasional error, its a good show. The show is produced in Ann Arbor. Check the website for dates, times and stations.

Reported by: Dave Wobser

Today in Great Lakes History - April 23

In 1953 the 1953 Pere Marquette 22 was cut in half, then pulled apart and lengthened by 40 feet, as part of a major refit at Manitowoc, WI. Also during this refit, her triple expansion engines were replaced with Skinner Unaflow, and her double stacks were replaced with a single, tapered stack. The refit was completed August 28, 1953.

On April 23, 1966 the JOSEPH S. WOOD was towed to the Ford Rouge complex at Dearborn, MI by her new owners, the Ford Motor Company.

The FORT YORK was commissioned April 23, 1958.

On April 23, 1980 the ARTHUR B. HOMER's bow thruster failed while maneuvering through ice at Taconite Harbor, MN, resulting in a grounding which damaged her bow and one ballast tank.

The JOSEPH S. SCOBELL was launched April 23, 1891 as a) GRIFFIN (1).

On April 23, 1972, PAUL H. CARNAHAN arrived at the Burlington Northern Docks at Superior, Wisconsin to load 22,402 gross tons of iron ore bound for Detroit, opening the 1972 shipping season at Superior.

On 23 April 1859 at about midnight, the schooner S. BUTTLES was fighting a severe gale. She was carrying staves from Port Burwell to Clayton and sprung a leak while battling the gale. While manning the pumps, one man was washed overboard, but his shipmates quickly rescued him. Capt. Alexander Pollock beached the vessel to save her about 10 miles east of the Genesee River.

Data from: Max Hanley, David Swayze, Joe Barr, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Calcite II Refloated

04/22:
The 580-foot self-unloader Calcite II was refloated Thursday morning with the assistance of a tug. Tanks were sounded and it was determined the vessel was not taking on water. The vessel will proceed to Cleveland where an internal structural exam will take place.

Middletown Visits the Twin Ports

04/22:
Middletown made one of its infrequent calls to the Twin Ports on April 21 to unload stone at the CLM dock in Superior. The vessel was scheduled to proceed to Taconite Harbor later that day to load taconite pellets.

Stmr. Middletown preparing to depart the CLM dock in Superior on April 21 after unloading stone.
Bow view
Side view

Reported by: Al Miller

Iglehart Update

04/22:
The U.S. Coast Guard reports that the J.A.W. Iglehart was refloated with the assistance of four tugs.

Bridge Update

04/21:
The N&W Rail Road Bridge over the Maumee River in Toledo was repaired and reopened at 7:50 a.m. Friday morning. Vessel traffic resumed a short time later.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 22

ST.CLAIR (2) was christened April 22, 1976 at Bayship.

The CHICAGO TRIBUNE laid up for the last time at Toronto on April 22, 1986.

HOCHELAGA (2) lost her self-unloading boom during a wind storm at Windsor, Ont. on April 22, 1980. As a consequence she made ten trips hauling grain as a "straight decker".

CHARLES M. WHITE was commissioned April 22, 1952 at South Chicago. She was soon recognized as one of the fastest ships on the Great Lakes because of her ability to reach speeds in excess of 17 knots (19.6 mph).

On 22 April 1871, the 210', 4 mast wooden schooner JAMES COUCH was launched at Port Huron, MI. She was named for a prominent Chicago businessman of the times.

Data from: Joe Barr, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Rt. Hon Paul J. Martin Sea Trials

04/21:
The Rt. Hon Paul J. Martin is expected to depart Port Weller Dry Docks at 6:00 a.m. this morning and head south to Lake Erie where she will under go sea trials.

Please e-mail if you have updates or pictures.

Reported by: Roger Tottman

Calcite II Grounds

04/21:
At 9:35 p.m. Wednesday, the 580-foot self unloader Calcite II grounded while departing Port Inland loaded with limestone destined for Cleveland. On Thursday morning the vessel was still aground in the western edge of the marked approach to channel . The Calcite's crew had sounded and internally examined the starboard double bottom tanks and found them dry and undamaged.

The Calcite II tried to free themselves using the engine and bowthruster. By 6:45 a.m. Thursday morning the mild northeast breezes shifted to east/northeast at about 30 knots and was holding the vessel's starboard bow hard against the sand shoal, further hampering refloating efforts.

The Calcite II was unable to refloat under own power and assistance from the Basic Towing tug Erika was requested. The tug was enroute from Escanaba with an estimated time of arrival of 10:30 a.m. Thursday.

Iglehart Refloated

04/21:
After being aground overnight, the J.A.W. Iglehart called for the assistance of the Gaelic Tugboat Company's 3,000 horsepower tug Roger Stahl at 8:00 a.m. Thursday morning. Pulling on the grounded vessel, the Roger Stahl help free the Iglehart at about 11:00 a.m.

The ship was then assisted alongside the English River for lightering. Lightering was finished late Thursday night and the English River departed sailing for Cleveland where she will off load the cargo. At 11:00 p.m. the Iglehart was tied up at the Lafarge dock in Detroit and reported an estimated departure time of 12:00 a.m. Saturday morning.

At that time she will sail in ballast for the Toledo Shipyard for repairs to damage to her forepeak tank. The Iglehart was loaded to 26-feet with 12,396 tons of cement.

Bridge Delays Saltie

04/21:
The U.S. Coast Guard received notification from the Great Lakes Towing Company Wednesday night that a train was stopped on the N&W Rail Road Bridge at mile marker 1.8 of the Maumee River. The saltie Great Laker was inbound to load, and being held at the bridge. While the Great Laker was awaiting passage it began to ingest mud and had to shut down. Great Lakes Towing had two tugs with lines maintaining control of the vessel, which was not in any danger of grounding.

Inquiries revealed that train had been stopped due to crossing clearance confusion. Also, the train crew had to be replaced with a relief crew due to crew mission day expiration. The train was underway at 8:30 p.m., just as the bridge was clear the power to it failed. The rail company contacted technicians to make repairs.

Thursday morning the estimated time of repair was unknown. The Great Laker headed back out to Lake Erie to wait for passage.

Twin Ports Report

04/21:
Several vessels from Great Lakes Fleet went to anchor on April 20 in the face of foul weather on the lower lakes. George A. Sloan dropped anchored in the St. Clair River, Myron C. Taylor was expected to finish loading in Cleveland and then wait for the weather to moderate before departing. It's due at Carrollton sometime on the 22nd. Calcite II was expected to anchor in the Straits of Mackinac before proceeding on to Cleveland.

Philip R. Clarke is becoming a regular at Fairport this season. It was there again on the 20th to load for Toledo, where it was expected to arrive April 21.

GLF boats have been taking most of their ore cargoes out of Two Harbors again this season, but Edwin H. Gott is due at the DMIR ore dock in Duluth on April 25, and John G. Munson is due there on the 2oth to load for Conneaut.

Reported by: Al Miller

Traffic in Holland

04/21:
Activity at Holland, MI. continued Thursday as the Joseph H. Frantz arrived at the Brewer dock in the early morning hours. Her visit turned into an extended stay as high winds kept her at the dock. She is expected to depart early today, weather permitting.

Meanwhile, the barge Pere Marquette 41 and tug Undaunted was paying her second visit of the season, again loading scrap metal at Padnos.

Reported by: Bob Vande Vusse

Strike Ends in Goderich

04/21:
On Sunday employees at Sifto Salt voted to return to work ending a two and a half week strike that shut down Siftos mine operations effecting marine shipping, rail operations and trucking.

On Monday morning the Agawa Canyon was the first vessel to load salt followed on Tuesday by the Algorail. For the rest of the week Sifto is expecting up to five vessels.

On Tuesday morning the Oakglen was the first grain ship of the 2000 shipping season. She arrived with a draft of 23.5, last spring at this time P&H was carrying 25.3. The Oakglen was met in the lake by the tugs Dover and Debbie Lyn, the tugs turned the ship to back in for unloading at the No. 2 elevator. The tugs later assisted her into the No. 1 elevator to finish unloading.

Reported by: Mac Donald Marine LTD.

Saginaw in Saginaw

04/21:
The steamer Saginaw departed the GM dock in Saginaw at about 9:00 a.m. Thursday morning and, after turning, was outbound for the lake. The vessel apparently arrived sometime during the night.

Weather conditions were dreary and rainy for the Saginaw's second visit to her namesake river, a far cry from the bright sunshine which greeted her on her first visit about two weeks ago.

Reported by: Stephen Hause

Theodore Tugboat Launched in Halifax

04/21:
Many of the readers with children may have seen the TV show "Theodore Tugboat", which is produced in Halifax and shown around the world. The producers have had a real "Theodore Tugboat" built. It was launched Wednesday at Bridgewater, N.S. The wooden 65-foot tug is powered by a 400 horsepower engine and took 20,515 man hours to build.

Click here for more information

In other Halifax news, Canada Steamship Lines' Atlantic Erie has finished her refit and was proceeding into the Bedford Basin to load at National Gypsum.

Reported by: Paul Beesley

Today in Great Lakes History - April 21

The EDWIN H. GOTT cleared Two Harbors with her first cargo, 59,375 tons of iron ore, on April 21, 1979 bound for Gary, IN.

The WILLIS L. KING (b) C.L. AUSTIN) departed on her maiden voyage with a load of coal from Toledo on April 21, 1911 bound for Superior, WI.

On April 21, 1988 the BIRCHGLEN was towed off the Great Lakes by the tugs ELMORE M. MISNER and ATOMIC bound for Sydney N.S. to be scrapped.

OAKGLEN (1) was launched April 21, 1923 as a) WILLIAM H. WARNER.

HOMER D. WILLIAMS was launched in 1917.

April 21, 1998 - The PERE MARQUETTE 41 (former CITY OF MIDLAND 41) was towed to Sturgeon Bay from Muskegon for the remainder of the conversion. She was towed by the Mary Page Hannah and the Carl William Selvick.

On 21 April 1868, GERTRUDE (2-mast wooden schooner, 137', 268 t, built in 1855 at Cleveland) was carrying corn from Chicago to Buffalo when she was cut by the ice four miles west of Mackinaw City and sank in deep water. Her crew made it to shore in the yawl.

Data from: Max Hanley, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Low Water Grounds Iglehart

04/20:
The J.A.W. Iglehart grounded off her dock in Detroit at 10:00 p.m. Tuesday night. She was refloated and moved to the Belle Isle Anchorage. Wednesday evening the cement carrier grounded again while heading to the Southdown Cement Dock. The Great Lakes Towing tugs Wyoming and Vermont were called to the scene but were unable to free the vessel. At 9:00 p.m. the tug Pennsylvania arrived on scene but was later released with the Vermont. The Wyoming will be standing by until the vessel can be lightered. At that time two additional tugs will join in the refloating operation.

Last night, the Iglehart was planning to off load part of her cargo into the English River. The English River was expected to arrive sometime early Thursday morning.
Check back for updates.

Alpena Grounds

04/20:
According to the U.S. Coast Guard in Grand Haven, the Alpena grounded briefly Tuesday in St. Joseph, MI. The cement carrier, a fleet mate to the Iglehart, was moving at a mere 1 knot per hour at the time of the grounding. The vessel later arrived at the Lafarge dock after pumping ballast.

Last week the Alpena had an uneventful trip into St. Joseph and had reported the same draft, 17 feet. The Coast Guard has been broadcasting shoaling to 18 feet in this area.

Reported by: David Swain

Twin Ports Report

04/20:
Twin Ports boatwatchers got a rare and impressive treat early April 19 when all four Duluth grain berths were occupied simultaneously. Merweborg was loading at General Mills, Ziemia Zamojska was loading at Cargill B1, barge Sarah Spencer was unloading grain at Cargill B2 and Spar Opal was loading at AGP. Across the harbor in Superior, Peonia was loading at Cenex Harvest States and Algocape arrived for the Peavey elevator.

An increasingly unusual sight is the Midwest Energy Terminal's loading berth without a vessel in it. It was empty April 19 after Canadian Olympic and James R. Barker had loaded the previous day. The rest of the week is expected to be busy with Paul R. Tregurtha and Canadian Transport due April 20; Walter J. McCarthy Jr. and Reserve due the 21st; Canadian Enterprise and Columbia Star due April 22; and Oglebay Norton due the 24th.

Reported by: Al Miller

Holland Report

04/20:
The early part of the week saw a Coast Guard buoy tender on Lake Macatawa, pulling out the winter markers and placing the buoys that mark the shipping channel. Continued low water makes the markers even more crucial.

On the Tuesday the harbor was visited by fleet mates Wolverine and Earl W. Oglebay. A third member of the Oglebay Norton Marine Services fleet, the Joseph H. Frantz, was due in late Wednesday night to unload.

Reported by: Bob Vande Vusse

Submarine Moved

04/20:
The World War II fleet submarine USS CROAKER was successfully moved from her berth on the Buffalo River to the Lackawanna Canal at Bethlehem Steel Wednesday morning. The G tugs New Jersey and Mississippi towed the vessel bow first down the Buffalo River, around Lighthouse Point and though the Outer Harbor over the course of an hour and half Wednesday morning.

On the way she passed another WWII vet, the former troop carrier Marine Star (Aquarama) at the Cargil Pier near the South Entrance. She was tied up at the extreme south end of the Bethlehem Slip by 11:30 a.m. A smaller tug owned by Buffalo Industrial Diving was along side to help pin the vessel against the wall as the lines were made up. There was also a U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy contingent aboard to make sure things were done by the book since the warship is still Navy property.

This is the first time a submarine has ever docked in Lackawanna and will probably be the last.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski

Today in Great Lakes History - April 20

On April 20, 1960, the Arthur B. Homer entered service. She was the last vessel built by the Great Lakes Engineering Works.

The 3-mast schooner CAMDEN was launched at Cleveland on 20 April 1872.

Data from: Jody Aho, Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Challenger Departs

04/19:
The Southdown Challenger departed its Milwaukee lay up dock late Tuesday afternoon. A short stop was made in the Milwaukee inner harbor so that the Skinner Uniflow engine could be properly warmed up and minor adjustments made.

Captain George Herdina then backed the 1906 built Challenger out into the outer harbor, spun the old girl around and headed out through the main entrance bound for Charlevoix, MI.

Reported by: Andy LaBorde

Tanker Sold

04/19:
The tanker Enerchem Trader was recently sold to Panamanian-flag interests by Algoma Tankers Ltd. and renamed Silverhead in Montreal on April 18. The new name was painted only on the life rings and the old name removed everywhere on the hull. She is to leave Montreal in about a month for Mexico. The tanker has been is lay-up in Montreal since Dec. 25, 1998 and was acquired by Algoma in Jan. 1999. She never operated for Algoma.

Reported by: René Beauchamp

Rt. Hon Paul J. Martin Sea Trials

04/19:
The new SeawayMax vessel will depart Port Weller Dry Docks late Thursday night or early Friday and head south to Lake Erie where she will under go sea trials. If trials are successful she will go into service from there.

Reported by: Roger Tottman

Frontenac Arrives

04/19:
On Tuesday morning the Frontenac arrived at the mouth of the Saginaw River heading for the Essroc Cement Dock in Essexville with clinkers from Picton, Ont. She looked older then her age and you can barely make out the CSL banner on her side, it was also tight fit for the vessel, having to overtake the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bramble, which was setting aids to navigation in the river. After unloading the Frontenac is scheduled to arrive at Duluth on the Morning of the 20th.

Reported by: Brian Ferguson and Lon Morgan

Manstee Update

04/19:
On Monday the Buffalo arrived with a load of 13,000 tons of southern coal for the Morton Salt dock from Toledo, Ohio. This was the first American Steamship Company (ASC) boat to go to the Morton dock since the 1980's when ASC had the contract.

On Saturday the Wolverine opened the 2000 shipping season for Manistee when she arrived with a load of coal for the Tondu dock. She brought in 13,000 tons of coal, and her deep draft was 19- feet as compared to 21-feet last year.

Reported by: Chris Franckowiak

Submarine to Move

04/19:
The movement of the WWII fleet submarine USS Croaker in Buffalo is scheduled to take place today at 10:00 a.m.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski

Oglebay Norton Company Acquires Michigan Limestone

04/19:
Oglebay Norton Company announced Tuesday that it has acquired Michigan Limestone Operations Limited Partnership (MLO). The purchase price paid for the partnership interests was $53 million in cash at closing plus contingent payments subject to achieving certain operating performance parameters over the next decade.

Michael Lundin, MLO's president, will continue in his role as President of MLO, reporting directly to John N. Lauer, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Oglebay Norton. In order to optimize synergies in the Great Lakes region, Oglebay Norton's Global Stone Port Inland limestone facility will report to Lundin.

MLO operates two facilities, one in Rogers City, Michigan, and the other in Cedarville, Michigan. These operations supply high calcium and dolomitic limestone to a wide variety of users including the construction, energy and steel industries. MLO is the largest limestone producer on the Great Lakes with annual revenues in excess of $40 million.

Lauer commented: "We are pleased to have concluded this transaction under mutually favorable terms. This transaction provides Oglebay Norton with a complementary business and creates significant synergies with our existing limestone facility in Port Inland and with our Marine Services & Transportation business. It also strengthens our position in construction aggregates, building materials, industrial and environmental markets in the Great Lakes region. We expect the acquired business to be accretive to earnings this year."

Lundin added: "We are excited to join a company with such a long and well-respected history. Oglebay's management team has a solid grasp on profitably growing the company and we expect to contribute to that growth."

In addition, Oglebay Norton has also entered into a new three-year, $118 million term-loan with its banking group and has restated its pre-existing $232 million revolving credit facility. Both credit facilities are senior to the company's $100 million, 10% bonds issued in 1999.

Lauer concluded: "We are pleased with the new credit facility and the financial flexibility that it affords the company in pursuing additional strategic growth opportunities. While this new bank agreement provides the company with significant cash resources, we remain firmly committed to maintaining our leverage ratio at or below four times EBITDA."

Oglebay Norton Company, a Cleveland, Ohio-based company, provides essential minerals to a broad range of markets, from building materials and home improvement to the environmental, energy and metallurgical industries. Building on a 145-year heritage, our vision is to become the premier growth company in the industrial minerals industry.
The company's website is located at www.oglebaynorton.com.

Lakeboat Movie

04/19:
The film about a graduate student who takes a summer job on a Great Lakes freighter and sees life through the eyes of his crew members was released on April 13 at the Los Angeles Independent film festival. The movie is an adaptation of David Mamet's comic play Lakeboat and was filmed on the Seaway Queen. The footage was shot last fall in the Welland Canal and the vessel's Toronto registration was replaced with Chicago.

The movie is described as coming-of-age tale set aboard a Great Lakes freighter. Creating a memoir of his own experiences, writer and Pulitzer Prize winner David Mamet tells the story of Dale, an Ivy League college student who briefly joins a world-weary crew. Exposed to a seafaring lifestyle which falls short of his literary visions, Dale instead finds the experience rich in unexpected ways.

Click here to read a recent review.

Reported by: John Stark

Today in Great Lakes History - April 19

Sea trials were completed for the CANADIAN TRANSPORT April 19, 1979 and she departed Port Weller on her maiden voyage the next morning.

The GEORGE A. STINSON's self-unloading boom collapsed onto her deck due to a mechanical failure on the night of April 19, 1983 at Detroit. No injuries were reported. She continued hauling cargoes without a boom most of the year until it was replaced on September 20th of that year.

On April 19, 1951 CLIFFS VICTORY began her much publicized 1,000 mile journey up the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers through the Illinois Waterway pushed by a towboat to Lockport, IL where two GLT tugs took up the tow through the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal.

HUTCHCLIFFE HALL was launched April 19, 1954.

RICHARD TRIMBLE was launched April 19, 1913.

The A.M. BYERS sank in a head-on collision with the upbound steamer E.M. FORD, whose steering gear failed, on the night of April 19, 1956. The collision occurred 2 1/2 miles south of Algonac, MI in the South Channel of the St. Clair River.

On April 19, 1950, the Wilfred Sykes entered service, departing Lorain, Ohio for Toledo, Ohio to load coal on her maiden voyage. The Sykes also became the largest vessel on the Great Lakes, taking the honor from Pittsburgh Steamship Company's Leon Fraser class (the "Supers") which had held it since June 21, 1942.

April 19, 1917 - The ANN ARBOR NO. 5 broke off her starboard shaft and bent the rudder stock on the rocky corner of the old Goodrich dock in Manitowoc.

On 19 April 1880, the Port Huron Times reported the results of a severe gale: "The schooner CHRIS GROVER, ashore near Oscoda, is reported going to pieces. The crew is aboard. The schooner ATHENIAN, lumber laden, is reported to have gone ashore off Au Sable and to be a complete wreck. The schooner HATTIE JOHNSON is abandoned on Goose Island shoal. The cabin and part of her deck are gone. The stern is gone from her mizzen and the gale probably broke her up completely and her outfit and cargo may prove a total loss." The GROVE and the JOHNSON were later recovered and put back in service.

Data from: Jody Aho, Max Hanley, Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Bulkers in Toronto

04/18:
The Canadian Ranger has been moored along side of the Canadian Mariner as of Friday the 14th. That makes a total of 6 ships belonging to the Upper Lakes Group that are in lay-up in Toronto Harbour and not generating revenue. All are grain boats.

Reported by: Jim Fitzgerald

Twin Ports Report

04/18:
Duluth's port terminal was unusually busy on the morning of April 17 as it handled two salties in the steel berth. Merweborg was reported to be discharging wood pulp while Peonia was docked at the whirley crane discharging steel coils.

AGP grain elevator continued its fast start to the season. On April 17 it was loading Spar Opal.

Courtney Burton arrived over the weekend to unload stone at the Cutler dock, then paid an unusual visit to the Midwest Energy Terminal to load coal for delivery to the power plant at Taconite Harbor.

Philip R. Clarke was weatherbound in Conneaut on April 17. When the weather moderates, it is scheduled to proceed to Fairport to load cargo for Toledo. Foul weather also prompted Myron C. Taylor to anchor in the Straits of Mackinac while bound for Calcite.

Fresh from repairs at Sturgeon Bay, James R. Barker is scheduled to load coal April 18 at Midwest Energy Terminal in Superior.

Reported by: Al Miller

Buffington Harbor News

04/18:
Buffington Harbor had its first load of Calcite limestone delivered by the John G. Munson Monday. While the Munson was unloading, the Calcite II was anchored off Buffington waiting to enter. The Cason J. Callaway is due into Buffington later this week.

Reported by: Gary Clark

Submarine on the Move in Buffalo

04/18:
Buffalo Industrial Diving will coordinate the movement of the WWII fleet submarine USS Croaker on the 19th of April. They will use three tugs to shift her from her present berth of the last 11 years to a temporary location at the Gateway Metroport in Lackawanna.

Major structural repairs were recently completed on her bow to get her ready for the six mile trip down the Buffalo Outer Harbor to the Bethlehem Slip. Divers found dangerously weak sections of the ship's bow that required welding and patching.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski

Fast Action by the Coast Guard Saves Two

04/18:
The U.S. Coast Guard responded to a small airplane that was heard backfiring near Muskegon, Mich., shortly before it crashed into Lake Michigan over the weekend. An HH-65 helicopter from Air Facility Muskegon and two boats from Station Grand Haven were launched. The 25-footer boat located and recovered the two people on board and transported them to an awaiting ambulance in Muskegon. The father was listed in critical condition and the son was listed in fair condition at a hospital in Muskegon. The aircraft later sank.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 18

On her maiden voyage April 18, 1980 the AMERICAN MARINER left Sturgeon Bay light for Escanaba, Mich. to load 31,322 gross tons of taconite pellets for Ashtabula, Ohio and arrived there on April 26th.

The MONTCLIFFE HALL began trading on the Great Lakes on April 18,1978.

The PATERSON (2) was launched April 18, 1985. She was the last straight deck bulk freighter built on the Lakes and was built to the maximum size permitted to lock through the Seaway.

BETHLEHEM (2) was launched April 18, 1917 as a) MIDVALE.

Problems occurred on the ALASTAIR GUTHRIE's first trip of the year on April 18, 1979 when she began taking on water in the engine room while loading grain at the International Multifoods elevator at Duluth, MN. Her stern settled to the bottom of the slip with 12 feet of water in the engine room.

The RED WING (2) was sold for scrap on April 18, 1986.

On April 18, 1960 the ROBERT C. STANLEY struck Vidal Shoal in Whitefish Bay about 1.5 miles above the Soo Locks, and tore a hole in her bottom.

STONEFAX was launched April 18, 1903 as the straight deck Lake Bulk Freighter a) SINALOA.

April 18, 1936 - Albert W. Ackerman, chief engineer of the Pere Marquette carferries for 35 years, died (Friday afternoon) at the Paulina Stearns hospital.

On 18 April 1848, the wooden schooner TRIBUNE went missing in lower Lake Michigan. Her fate was unknown until native fishermen discovered her masts standing upright off Cathead Point in November 1849. All ten of her crew were lost.

Data from: Jody Aho, Max Hanley, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Algosea Sails From Halifax

04/17:
The Algosea took fuel from the Imperial Dartmouth Sunday afternoon and then sailed into Halifax harbour for a compass adjustment. One hour later the compass adjuster was finished and he was removed by a small boat. The Algosea, Captain Wilhelm in command, sailed out the harbour about 9:00 p.m. She is sailing for Port Cartier where she will work the Port Cartier to Contrecoeur run.

Reported by: Paul Beesley

Cuyahoga Departs

04/17:
Some time early Sunday the Cuyahoga back out of the North Slip in Sarnia and entered service as a diesel powered vessel.

The Cuyahoga's original Lentz-Poppet 4-cylinder 2,500 horsepower double compound steam engine was replaced over the winter with a more powerful and efficient Caterpillar 3608 diesel engine.

Reported by: Les Reading

Final Departures from Bay Ship

04/17:
With the departure of the Myron C. Taylor and the James R. Barker, the Bay Shipyards slips are empty. The Taylor, completing winter lay-up, and the Barker, in for about a week for repairs to the hull following a recent grounding, each had their hulls freshly painted.

The only remaining vessel at the local yard is the Edward L. Ryerson, which it appears, will not be put into service this season. Talks are still underway between the Door County Maritime Museum and the ship's owners to moor the Ryerson at a city dock for temporary use this summer with tours open to the public.

Reported by: Paul Graf

First Saltie

04/17:
The first saltie of the year to arrive in Ludington was the Orsula. The vessel was assisted into port by the tug Superior. She was scheduled to depart sometime Saturday.

Orsula at dock on Saturday.

Reported by: Max Hanley

Casualties and Vessels Broken Up

04/17:
Casualties
LUCKYMAN resumed her trip to Hamilton on April 15 from Montreal. It will be recalled that on April 12, her steering gear caused some problems and she had to anchor in emergency in the Port of Montreal.

Expected to go up the Seaway on or about April 17 for Duluth and possibly other ports will be the Turkish-flag bulker MINA CEBI. According to a Lloyd's report from last December, she collided with the reefer ship Saratoga on Dec. 7 in outer roads of St. Petersburg, Russia. A cargo hold was holed and there was some water ingress. She was repaired at St. Petersburg. It is interesting to note she is one of the few salties plying the Great Lakes which was built in two parts, the forward section having been built at Setoda and the aft section at Toyama, both locations in Japan.

A very recent casualty involved the Friendship type, general cargo ship MILLENIUM YAMA bound on the St. Lawrence River for Cleveland from Torre Annunziata, Italy. She had a main engine breakdown followed by an engine-room fire off Godbout near Baie Comeau on April 11. She was towed into Baie Comeau and on April 14 was under tow for Quebec City by Ocean Charlie and Ocean Hercule.

Vessels broken up
According to the February edition of "Marine News", the following vessels have been sold to be broken up. All of them transited the Seaway at least once under at least one name. Apil, a bulk carrier arrived at Chittagong, Bangladesh on May 4, 1999 and was in the Seaway as LUCY. The general cargo ship Monajat arrived at Alang, India on Nov. 12, 1999 and was a regular caller to Great Lakes ports as the Soviet-flag VALYA KOTIK. The Freedom ship Rosaleen arrived also at Alang but on Nov. 11, 1999. She completed trips as THASOS ISLAND, also as TENACIOUS. The Santa Fe type Trident arrived at Chittagong about Nov. 14, 1999 and made at least one trip to the Lakes as STORMY ANNIE. Two SD 14s were also sold for demolition. Mariner which called in Montreal but not in Great Lakes ports was sold to Far East breakers previous to 31-12-1994. She had transited the Seaway under her first name of SCAPWIND. The other SD 14 is the Rena One which transited under her original name of WELSH TROUBADOUR. Her demolition was completed at Calcutta on Nov. 9, 1997.

Reported by: René Beauchamp

The Winner Is

04/17:
The latest winner in the weekly drawing was Patrick Petit of Beltsville, Maryland. Patrick will have his pick of the prizes listed on the User Survey page.

Marine Publishing, publisher of Know Your Ships has donated 6 copies of the popular annual publication and one of their new Soo Locks books for prizes in our Weekly Drawing. My thanks to editor Roger LeLievre of Marine Publishing for the support.

Click here to enter, you could be our winner next Monday.

Shipping News

04/17:
The St. Catharines Standard is now printing "The Shipping News" on page two of the newspaper each day. The feature lists what was in the Welland Canal and what is expected that day. The feature is not yet available on the Standard's web site.

The Standard also runs the weekly feature "Ships that ply the Lakes" written by author and historian Skip Gillham.

Picture Madness

04/17:
I recently replaced my aging scanner with a new one that will also scan slides. The problems I had keeping the old one running has created a back log of pictures so all this week the Original Photo Gallery will feature a new "Picture of the Day".

In the next two weeks there will also be a new Photo Gallery featuring Lighthouses of the Great Lakes. Many boatwatchers also take pictures of the many lights that dot the coast of the Lakes and Seaway. If you would like to include your Lighthouse photos in the new gallery please e-mail or send by postal mail to the address below.

The new gallery will feature pictures and a history similar to the "Fleet Photo Gallery". If you are a lighthouse expert I could use your help with some of the histories, please e-mail for details.

Mail address:
Neil Schultheiss
P.O. Box 244
Troy, MI 48099-0244

Today in Great Lakes History - April 17

The 610 foot aft section of the JOHN B. AIRD passed upbound through the Soo Canal April 17, 1983 in tow of the tugs WILFRED M. COHEN and JOHN McLEAN heading for Thunder Bay where it was assembled with the 120 foot bow section.

STADACONA (2) was launched April 17, 1929.

On April 17, 1977, the Algolake entered service.

April 17, 1970 - The CITY OF FLINT 32 was sold to the Norfolk & Western Railway for $100,000.

On 17 April 1840, the wooden side-wheeler CATARAQUI was burned to a total loss during a great fire which destroyed much of the waterfront area of Kingston, Ontario.

Data from: Jody Aho, Max Hanley, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Halifax Update

04/16:
At 0930 local time Saturday morning the Algosea was conducting a fire and boat drill as part of her inspection by marine Safety personnel. Her trade route will be on the St. Lawrence Seaway, her deep ocean draft means that those on the lakes will most likely never see the new vessel.

Canada Steamship Lines' Atlantic Huron arrived in Halifax on the 14th. She immediately started unloading at the flour mill dock.

The Halifax Vessel Traffic Services have no time of departure for the Algosea or the Atlantic Huron.

Reported by: Paul Beesley

Triton in Milwaukee

04/16:
The tug Triton with the barge St. Marys Cement backed up the Milwaukee river late Friday afternoon to the Blue Circle Cement terminal. Although still in Merce colors, the Triton was manned by a Great Lakes Towing crew.

Reported by: Andy LaBorde

Crewman Evacuated

04/16:
The Watertown Daily Times reported Friday that Algocape came into the Snell Lock Thursday with a ships officer having what appeared to rescue squad crews to be a possible heart attack.

The officer, whose name was not released, was taken to Massena Memorial Hospital for treatment. He was conscious and alert at the time, said squad president Philip E. Brown, but showed signs of a possible heart attack.

The man had radioed into the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. requesting assistance because he wasn't feeling well. Algoma Central, the company that owned the vessel, sent another captain from the Niagara Falls area to take the ship and its cargo of iron ore to its destination in Hamilton, Ontario, said Vicki J. Garcia, Seaway spokeswoman.

Reported by: Judy Wendt

Today in Great Lakes History - April 16

ALGOLAKE's sea trials were held April 16, 1977.

ALGOWOOD departed on her maiden voyage April 16, 1981 from Owen Sound, Ont. light for Stoneport, MI taking on stone there for Sarnia, Ont.

The BURNS HARBOR's keel was laid on April 16, 1979.

CEMENTKARRIER was launched April 16, 1930.

The W.K. BIXBY (c) SIDNEY E. SMITH, JR. (2) entered service on April 16, 1906.

On April 16, 1986 the WILLIAM A. IRVIN was sold for $110,000 to the Duluth Convention Center Board.

On 16 April 1870, the fore-and-aft schooner L. W. PERRY was launched at the Fitzgerald & Leighton yard in Port Huron. She was owned by J.L. Woods of Lexington, MI and commanded by Capt. M. Hyde. Her dimensions were 128' keel, 133' overall, 26' beam and 9' depth. She cost $29,000 and was built for the lumber trade.

Data from: Jody Aho, Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Algosea Update

04/15:
Algosea was floated from the drydock at Halifax Shipyards Friday. She proceeded to Pier 21 to continue her preparations for her maiden voyage. Marine Safety officers may board the vessel today to conduct the necessary inspections for certification. There is a possibility that Algosea may sail on Monday, depending on the inspections and associated work.

Click here for photos of Algosea, with the old name still visible beneath the black paint

Reported by: Paul Beesley

Iglehart Delayed in Buffalo

04/15:
The J.A.W. Iglehart can't seem to catch a break. Last year she was denied passage through the Michigan St. Bridge due to the enforcement of city navigation rules regarding tug use that date back to the 1930's. On Friday evening she was held up again. This time the required tugs were alongside the vessel but the Michigan St. Bridge did not open.

Apparently there was some type of problem with the lift mechanism at the top of the guide towers. City engineers were just down the street repairing a gate at the Ohio St. Bridge and were quickly on scene to fix the problem.

The Iglehart and her escort were holding in the turning basin below the bridge for about a half hour and were finally let through at 9:00 p.m. The Iglehart unloaded at the LaFarge plant and departed about 6 hours later.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski

Twin Ports Report

04/15:
After cleaning its holds out on the lake, Algocen returned to port to become the first laker of the season to load grain in Duluth-Superior. The vessel was under the spouts at the Peavey Connors Point elevator on April 14. It had arrived in port earlier this week with a load of cement.

Just a few hundred yards from where the Algocen was docked Friday morning, the Coast Guard Cutter Sundew was placing buoys at the western entrance to Superior's front channel.

H. Lee White made an unusual call in Superior on April 13 to load taconite pellets at BNSF ore dock.

Armco is scheduled to call in Superior late on April 15 to load coal at Midwest Energy Terminal. The rest of the lineup looks like this: Canadian Enterprise and Paul R. Tregurtha, April 14; Walter J. McCarthy Jr., Algobay and Armco, April 15; Columbia Star and Algolake, April 17; Oglebay Norton and Canadian Olympic, April 18.

Reported by: Al Miller

Saginaw Report

04/15:
The David Z. Norton cleared the Wirt stone dock in Saginaw at about 4 p.m. Friday afternoon. After turning, the vessel tied up at the Sargent's dock just north of the I-75 bridge to await passage of the upbound Alpena, which was passing through Bay City on her way to Saginaw. The Alpena arrived at the LaFarge dock in Saginaw about 8 p.m.

Shortly after the Alpena passed through Bay City at about 5:30 p.m. Friday, the barge Pere Marquette 41 cleared the Bay Aggregates dock and proceeded up to the Airport turning basin to turn. Reportedly, the Pere Marquette had experienced a breakdown of its unloading equipment while at Bay City and had been delayed there.

Reported by: Stephen Hause and Lon Morgan

Toledo Update

04/15:
The new John J. Boland arrived in Toledo Friday morning. The vessel arrived shortly after 7:00 a.m. at the Torco dock. She waited at the dock as the Wolverine was loading coal while the Algolake was tied up at the CSX # 2 dock waiting to load coal. It was late afternoon before the Boland was able to shift over and start loading.

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bristol Bay with her barge were working on buoys in the shipping channel.

The Gemini and Sam Laud remain in lay-up in Toledo with no scheduled departure date.
Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Iroquois Lock Traffic

04/15:
Federal Polaris sailing to unload in Hamilton and then load grain in Duluth next week, the Kamilla sailing from Oshawa for the sea, the Windoc and the Aegean Sea sailing upbound.

Federal Polaris passing Windmill Point with Ogdensburg in the background.
Federal Polaris under the international bridge from Johnstown to Ogdensburg, NY.
Kamilla underway.
Kamilla passing the Windoc.
Aegean Sea at Brockville.


Report and images by: Peter Carter

Canadian shipping executive to speak in Michigan Saturday

04/15:
Wayne Smith, Vice President and General Manager of Seaway Marine Transport, a Canadian company which operates the largest fleet of ships on the Great Lakes, will address members of the Marine Historical Society of Detroit at their Annual Dinner in St. Clair today.

Mr. Smith will discuss key issues facing both U.S. and Canadian shipping companies, including rail freight issues, and Bill 955, legislation proposed in Michigan.

Seaway Marine Transport is a partnership of Canada's two largest domestic shipping companies, Algoma Central Corporation, St. Catharines, Ont. and Upper Lakes Group Inc., Toronto, Ont. The fleet currently includes 21 self-unloading and 22 bulk carriers. The entire U.S. Great Lakes dry bulk fleet includes only 53 vessels.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 15

CANADA MARQUIS was launched April 15, 1983.

SAM LAUD was christened April 15, 1975.

On April 15, 1977 the CONALLISON's self-unloading boom collapsed while unloading coal at the Detroit Edison Trenton, MI power plant in the Trenton Channel of the lower Detroit River.

The W.W. HOLLOWAY suffered a fire in the fantail while in dry dock following her re powering at AmShip on April 15, 1963 causing $15,000 damage.

J.P. MORGAN JR. left Lorain light April 15, 1910 on her maiden voyage to load iron ore at Duluth, MN.

The JOE S. MORROW entered service April 15, 1907.

JOHN P. REISS left Lorain on her maiden voyage April 15, 1910 with coal for Escanaba, MI. She was the first of three bulkers built in 1910 for Reiss interests.

The IMPERIAL COLLINGWOOD began service April 15, 1948. On April 15, 1955, the Detroit Edison (2) entered service, departing Manitowoc, Wisconsin for Port Inland, Michigan on her maiden trip.

On April 15, 1985, the William Clay Ford (2) (formerly Walter A. Sterling and presently Lee A. Tregurtha) departed Fraser Shipyards for the D. M. & I. R. ore docks in West Duluth for her first load in Ford Motor Company colors.

April 15, 1930 - While going up Manitowoc river to dry dock, the WABASH rubbed the parked steamer Theo Roosevelt and damaged her upper works forward.

On 15 April 1862, ELISHA C. BLISH (wooden propeller tug, 81', 107 t, built in 1857 at Black River, OH) sank near shore at Algonac, MI when a steam pump was accidentally left in an open position and she flooded. She was raised and lasted another two years when she "went missing" on Lake Huron.

Data from: Max Hanley, Jody Aho, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

More on the Algosea

04/14:
The new Algosea is in drydock at Halifax, Nova Scotia. She is the ex-Ambassador. Her name and port of registry, now Halifax, have been painted on but the Marbulk stack markings remains to be changed.

Canada Steamship Lines Atlantic Erie is nearing the end of her refit in Halifax. Contractors report she has undergone steel renewal, hydraulic and pipe replacement, particularly in the tunnel. Atlantic Erie should be ready to sail by April 21.

Click here for photos of Algosea, with the old name still visible beneath the black paint

Reported by: Paul Beesley

USS Report

04/14:
Calcite II was scheduled to depart its lay-up berth at Sturgeon Bay on April 13. It's due at Calcite on the 14th to load for Buffington, Indiana. Myron C. Taylor is expected to depart Sturgeon Bay on the 14th and is due at Calcite on the 15th.

George A. Sloan, which came out of winter lay-up earlier this week, was due to load at Port Inland and is due at Cleveland on the 15th.

Reported by: Al Miller and David French

First Saltie

04/14:
Thunder Bay's first foreign vessel for the 2000 shipping season was the Lake Michigan arriving on Sunday. The vessel arrived and went to anchor, waiting for to take on a load at the United Grain Growers elevator M on Monday.

Reported by: Ron Konkol

Integrity in Muskegon

04/14:
The barge Integrity and tug Jacklyn M. arrived in Muskegon Thursday morning. The pair tied up at the Lafarge dock to unload cement. They were expected to depart some time Thursday night.

Integrity arriving in Muskegon. Image from the Muskegon web cam.

Reported by: Scott Golin and Robin Greathouse

Bramble in Saginaw

04/14:
With the spring shipping season off to a great start, the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Bramble, continues to replace the lighted marker buoys in the Saginaw River. The buoys will stay in position throughout the navigational season and then be removed in the fall before the river freezes.

Also in the river Thursday was the tug Dorothy Ann and barge Pathfinder heading to the Bay Aggregate Dock in Bay City. On Wednesday morning the tug Undaunted and barge Pere Marquette 41 was unloading at the same dock.

Reported by: Dan Maus and Lon Morgan

Cuyahoga Update

04/14:
The much anticipated sailing of the Cuyahoga has been delayed. Testing of the new Caterpillar 3608 and the drive train at the dock in Sarnia has resulted in the removal of the propeller blades from the hub. The propulsion machinery must be perfectly matched for optimum efficiency and performance.

Reported by: George Lee

Iroquois Lock Traffic

04/14:
Some of the traffic passing through the Iroquois Lock yesterday included the James Norris and the Regina Oldendorff for Hamilton.

Nanticoke.
Regina Oldendorff.

Report and images by: Peter Carter

Manitowoc Company Reports Record Earnings

04/14:
On Thursday the Manitowoc Company, Inc. reported record financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2000, the 18th consecutive quarter of improved year-over-year earnings. Manitowoc's marine segment operates three shipyards around the lakes, Bay Shipbuilding , Toledo Shiprepair and Cleveland Shiprepair. Net sales for the marine segment increased to $12,154,000 up from $10,470,000 for the same quarter in 1999. The operating earnings for the quarter were $2,377,000 up from $2,312,000 in 1999.

Terry D. Growcock, Manitowoc's president and chief executive officer said that the marine operations are in the final stages of completing another successful winter repair season. Sixteen vessels wintered at Sturgeon Bay and 25 vessels were serviced by the operations in Toledo and Cleveland, a total representing nearly two-thirds of the U.S.-flagged Great Lakes fleet. Compared to previous years, the change in marine margins is due to the shift in scope and mix of this work.

In addition to the winter repair work, the operation began fabricating the first three sections for a new cutterhead dredge and placed the initial steel orders for our hopper dredge contract as part of this quarter's efforts.

Last year the company signed a contract with Great Lakes Dredge & Dock to build a 5,000-cubic-meter hopper dredge at its Bay Shipbuilding facility in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. Construction of his 315-foot, highly automated ship will keep the yards busy until 2001.

Visit www.manitowoc.com for more information.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 14

On April 14, 1961 the FORT CHAMBLY departed Toronto, Ont. on her maiden voyage bound for the Canadian Lakehead.

The COLONEL JAMES PICKANDS sailed on her maiden voyage April 14, 1926 clearing Lorain for Toledo, OH to load coal.

The GLENEAGLES lost her self-unloading boom April 14, 1977 while unloading at the CSL stone dock at Humberstone, Ont.

On April 14, 1984, vessels around the Great Lakes were battling one of the worst season openers for ice in recent memory. The Ernest R. Breech (now Kinsman Independent) and the Herbert C. Jackson spent the entire day battling ice off the Duluth entry, while the St. Clair River was choked with ice.

On 13 April 1872, the wooden schooner-barge JOSEPH PAIGE was launched at the Wolf & Davidson yard in Milwaukee. Her dimensions were 190' x 32' x 12', 626 gt.

Data from: Jody Aho, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

New Vessel in Algoma's Fleet

04/13:
Algoma Central Marine's fleet tape recently reported a new vessel named Algosea (2). On Tuesday the vessel was reported as being reflagged in Halifax under going dry dock work.

The new vessel is believed to be the Ambassador, former Canadian Ambassador. The Algosea (2) will trade under Canadian flag under a long term charter to Algoma. She is scheduled to load at Port Cartier on April 18.

The 730-foot self-unloading bulk freighter was built in1983 at Port Weller for Upper Lakes Shipping. In 1986 the vessel was reflagged and registered off the lakes. She has spent her time since trading mostly on the Atlantic Ocean for Marbulk.

In other news, the Paul Martin is tentatively scheduled to begin sea trials some time mid next week.

Reported by: Jeff Cameron and Rod Burdick

Frantz Departs Lay-up

04/13:
On Wednesday morning the Joseph H. Frantz was loading at the CSX #4 coal dock in Toledo. The 75 year old laker depart that afternoon for her first trip of the season, heading to Manitowoc on the 14th. Oglebay Norton Marine now has all twelve of their vessels in service.

Reported by: Andy Hering

Oakglen visits South Chicago

04/13:
The Oakglen arrived on a rare trip to South Chicago early Wednesday. She was unloading pellets at the Acme Steel dock and was expected to depart early today.

On Wednesday afternoon the Herbert C. Jackson was loading at the KCBX coal dock in South Chicago.

Reported by: Gary R. Clark

Seaway Report

04/13:
As of April 11, after 16 days of navigation in the St. Lawrence Seaway, 30 foreign flag ocean-going vessels have transited the locks. The first one to come back was MARGIT GORTHON on March 31, this vessel having gone only as far as Côte Ste. Catherine docking at the Baillargeon dock.

The first new vessel of the season was FEDERAL RIDEAU on March 30 bound for Detroit, Windsor and Goderich.

On April 12, the Cyprus-flag LUCKYMAN on charter to Canadian Forest Navigation departed the Pointe-aux-Trembles anchorage in Montreal for the Great Lakes but shortly after had to drop both anchors in emergency, her steering gear not responding. She tied up to a nearby berth assisted by the tug OCEAN INTREPIDE and was to wait for an inspector. Fortunately, no other vessels were in the area at the time of the problem.

Fifteen minutes before, the Shell Oil bunkering tanker HORIZON MONTREAL was downbound. It was interesting to note her funnel marking was plain red, the Shell Oil crest having been removed.

Reported by: René Beauchamp

MacArthur Lock

04/13:
The MacArthur Lock at the Soo Locks opened about 3:00 p.m. Monday afternoon, with the tug Anglian Lady locking through. The first ship to use the lock was the saltie Morias she locked through shortly after the Anglian Lady.

The Lock closed last season in mid December and crews spent the winter completing numerous repair projects.

Reported by: Steve Crain

Marinette Report

04/13:
The Catherine Desgagnes opened the season for Marinette Tuesday. The vessel unloaded a cargo of Pig Iron at Marinette Fuel and Dock.

Reported by: Scott Best

First Vessel into Port Stanley

04/13:
The McKeil Marine tug Alice A and the asphalt barge 401 recently entered the Port Stanley west side dock. The tug had no problem entering at 18.5-feet, the tug and barge stuck close to the east pier and entered with caution. The pair remained in port waiting out the heavy weather on Lake Erie.

Reported by: Richard Hill

Twin Ports Report

04/13:
The Twin Ports cement trade began the season on April 11 with the arrival of Alpena for the LaFarge docks in Superior and Duluth, and arrival of Algocen for St. Lawrence Cement.

Duluth's AGP elevator is off to a busy start this season. It was loading Federal Asahi on April 12. Also off to a busy start is Cenex Harvest States, which already is loading two vessels. Millenium Eagle is due in there April 12.

The Hallett docks were busy April 12 handling Tadoussac and tug Doug McKeil and barge.

Reported by: Al Miller

Iroquois Lock Traffic

04/13:
Some of the traffic passing through the Iroquois Lock yesterday included the Lake Erie and Federal Rideau. The Lake Erie is heading for Detroit while the Federal Rideau is sailing for Montreal.

Lake Erie tied up at the Iroquois Lock with the Federal Rideau in the back ground.
Lake Erie at Brockville.

Report and images by: Peter Carter

Water Levels Continue to Fall

04/13:
A recent article in the Detroit News reports that shipping companies are losing tens of millions of dollars in revenue due to reduced loads. A reporter for the newspaper rode along with the George A. Stinson on a typical trip from Superior Wisconsin to Detroit. The Stinson normally carries 57,000 tons of ore each trip, but the amount has been reduced to 50,000. At $5 a ton, the vessel is losing $35,000 in revenue each trip and normally makes 50 trips a year.

Some lakes have fallen nearly a foot a year since 1997 and have reach a level that is the shallowest since March 1965. Lakes Huron and Michigan are down 18 inches in the last year alone. Erie has dropped 14 inches. Each vessel loses between 70 and 270 tonnes of cargo for each inch reduction in loaded draught. Many are losing 8,000 to 9,000 tonnes per trip.

Reported by: John Stark

Lake Michigan Carferry Extends Sailing Season

04/13:
The Lake Michigan Carferry Service, operators of the S.S. Badger between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, has announced it will extend its 2000 sailing season.

On May 12, the 410 foot, 4,200-ton steamer that carries up to 625 passengers and 180 automobiles, will depart its winter mooring for another busy sailing season. The summer season, with two round-trip cruises a day, has been extended one week. In addition, the fall schedule has been extended two weeks with daily sailings ending on October 29.

According to Thom Hawley, spokesman for Lake Michigan Carferry, survey data has indicated that car ferry passengers want a longer season.

``We've listened to our customers who have expressed their desire for an extended season and the added benefit of avoiding the hassles of driving around the Lake.'' He added, ``We've received a lot of interest in fall color tours through both states as well.''

Recognized as a spur route of the 1,100-mile Lake Michigan Circle Tour, the car ferry service links two popular Great Lakes shorelines. West Michigan boasts some of the country's most beautiful sand dunes, public beaches, resorts and camp sites, as well as some of the finest golf resorts found anywhere. To the west, travelers can discover the shores of excitement, including the popular Wisconsin Dells, the genuine American city of Milwaukee, and scenic Door County.

Aboard the Badger, passengers can enjoy many of the amenities of a large cruise ship with free family movies, shopping in the Badger Boatique, live entertainment, free Badger Bingo, or plenty of comfortable deck chairs to enjoy a good book. A variety of meal choices are available including buffet- style service in the Upper Deck Cafe or deli sandwiches and snacks from the Badger Galley on the main deck. Beverages are served from the Port Side Bar.

By itself the four-hour cruise is a splendid, affordable way to experience the majesty of the Great Lakes. And for many, the cross-lake service will eliminate valuable hours of drive time and traffic congestion, making weekend getaways possible. A discounted S.S. Badger mini-cruise, along with a variety of vacation packages that include one-way or round-trip fare are also available.

Passengers can also enjoy the convenience of spending a night in a stateroom aboard the Badger. The ``Badger Boatel,'' available during the spring and fall seasons, is offered in concert with several vacation packages for a small added cost and passengers should call for availability.

There are daily departures from Ludington each morning and Manitowoc each afternoon, May 12 through October 29. Additional daily sailings run June 15 to September 2, leaving Ludington each evening and returning overnight from Manitowoc.

For package, schedule, and reservation information, call 800-841-4243 or visit the Lake Michigan Carferry web site at www.ssbadger.com.

Lee Murdock Schedule

04/13:
Great Lakes balladeer Lee Murdock recently released a schedule of upcoming performances.
April 13, Traverse City Library, MI.
April 15, Lansing MI.
April 27-30, Performers' Retreat: Northern MI.
May 5, Madison WI.
May 13, Birmingham/Detroit, MI.

Lee Murdock's songs tell the stories of heroic deeds, tragic shipwrecks, and the lives of the people who make their homes and their livings along the shores of the Great Lakes. Visit www.leemurdock.com for more information

Today in Great Lakes History - April 13

The RICHARD REISS lost her boom April 13, 1994 when it collapsed at Fairport, OH.

The GEORGE M. HUMPHREY (2) struck a shoal in Whitefish Bay, near Gros Cap, April 13, 1956, when forced off channel in a shifting ice pack, and nearly sank.

On 13 April 1872, the wooden schooner-barge JOSEPH PAIGE was launched at the Wolf & Davidson yard in Milwaukee. Her dimensions were 190' x 32' x 12', 626 gt.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Sloan Begins Season

04/12:
George A. Sloan began its season by loading at Calcite on April 11. The vessel is due in Green Bay on the 12th.

Reported by: Al Miller and the Lake Carriers' Association

City of Milwaukee Moved

04/12:
On Tuesday the carferry City of Milwaukee was moved from the Seng #1 dock to the old Century Boat Company dock about 1 mile South on Manistee lake. Two tugs accomplished the move.

The historic carferry was moved to Manistee, MI in January after being evicted from her dock in Elberta, MI. The vessel is expected to remain in Manistee until a new dock in Frankfort, MI. is completed.

The first ship in Manistee is due early next week.

Reported by: Chris Franckowiak

Toledo Welcomes First Saltie

04/12:
The first saltie of the season was the 644-foot Peonia which arrived at the T.W.I. Dock to unload steel coils. The Liberian registered vessel arrived from Cleveland where she had unloaded part of her cargo.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Cleveland Report

04/12:
At 10:30 a.m. the American Republic was heading up the Cuyahoga River bound for the LTV Steel Mill. By 2:30 p.m. the vessel was backing down from LTV to turn around and head back down the Cuyahoga River for Lake Erie. This is a fast turn around for the vessel, the fast time may reflect lighter loads due to low water.

Reported by: John Rayburn

Buffalo Update

04/12:
The Kinsman Enterprise is expected to be towed for unloading of her storage load in Mid April. The Independent is undergoing an extensive fit out and may depart as late as May.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski

Gananoque Boat Line Repowers for Season

04/12:
The two older vessels of the Gananoque Boat Line have been completely repowered for the upcoming season. The Thousand Islander and Thousand Islander II built in 1972 and 1973 have had their engines removed and replaced with brand new Caterpillar Diesel engines 3196 series complete with electronic fuel injection and emission control.

Although reducing the actual "push power" because each vessel downgrades from a triple engine/triple screw to a twin engine/twin screw, the cost in fuel savings alone with the elimination of that third middle engine will be very significant.

According to fleet captains Jeff Liddell and Paul Davis, the Thousand Islander climbed to fifteen knots during her trial run last week.

Tours through the Thousand Islands have already begun with charter groups aboard the 500 passenger Thousand Islander IV and Thousand Islander V. The Thousand Islander III continues to fit out as well as her sister ship the "II" which is still having her new engines lined up and installed.

The work was carried out at the GBL shop and service dock over the past winter under the direction of Fleet Engineer Wilf Bilow. Gananoque Boat Line has five excursion vessels in the fleet and are a familiar sight for ships transiting the seaway through the Thousand Islands.

Reported by: Brian Johnson

Today in Great Lakes History - April 12

NANCY ORR GAUCHER was launched April 12, 1967 as the a) LANA.

Fuel Tanker LAKESHELL (3) was launched April 12, 1969.

The A.A AUGUSTUS departed Cleveland on her maiden voyage April 12, 1910 bound for Green Bay, WI with a load of coal.

HUDSON TRANSPORT was launched April 12, 1962.

On April 12, 1955 while upbound from Monroe, MI to load iron ore at Duluth, the ENDERS M. VOORHEES had the honor of opening the second century of navigation through the St. Marys Falls Ship Canal which was celebrated with great pomp and ceremony.

On 12 April 1880, the wooden 2-mast schooner-barge JUPITER was launched at Marysville, MI after being rebuilt under the supervision of James Bowers. She was originally built in 1857 at Irving, NY and after this rebuild, she lasted another 21 years.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Barker Arrives for Repairs

04/11:
Completing her unloading at the Recor Edison Power Plant on the St. Clair River, the James R. Barker arrived at the entrance to Sturgeon Bay early Monday morning. She made a 180 degree turn, anchoring off Sherwood Point.

At daylight, three Selvick tugs made their way down the channel, the Jimmy L. taking a bow line, the Bonnie G. the stern line, and the William C. standing at the port bow to assist as needed. The captain of the Barker momentarily held his ship at dead slow and following communication with the Bonnie G., picked up the speed. Of concern was the 15 mph winds.

After consultation with the dock master at Bay Ship, the Barker began dumping ballast, holding enough to keep the bow thrusters available as needed. By 7:30 A.M. the Barker was 300 yards from the graving dock headwalls, needing the full assistance of the three tugs in the gusting wind.

This reporter has the advantage of bluff top observation across from Sherwood point, along with a handheld marine radio, monitoring ship to tug to shipyard conversation. One has to admire the skills and teamwork required to move a 1000 ft. ship in 15 mph winds, threading the needle with the Barker's entrance into the graving dock.

Reported by: Paul Graf

Callaway Opens Gladstone

04/11:
Cason J. Callaway opened the small port of Gladstone on Little Bay de Doc Saturday, April 8, with a load of eastern coal loaded in Toledo.

Reported by: Rod Burdick

Seaway Traffic Resumes

04/11:
Traffic in the Seaway resumed Monday morning after all traffic through the Eisenhower lock was suspended on Sunday. No reason was given for the halt of traffic but severe weather is believed to be the cause. High winds and snow causing white out conditions moved through the area Sunday.

Reported by: Tom Moriarty and Kevin Williams

Iroquois Lock Traffic

04/11:
Vessels scheduled to transit the Iroquois Lock on Sunday began to arrive on Monday.

Utviken downbound Monday sailing for Montreal.
Ziemia Zamojska upbound Monday.


Report and images by: Peter Carter

Twin Ports Report

04/11:
George A. Sloan is scheduled to load at the DMIR ore dock in Two Harbors on April 12. This apparently will be its first trip out of lay-up.

The DMIR ore dock in Two Harbors is sticking with a steady line-up of GLF vessels. This week's schedule is: Edgar B. Speer, April 10; Roger Blough and Arthur M. Anderson, due April 11; Cason J. Callaway, Presque Isle and George A. Sloan, due April 12; Philip R. Clarke, due April 14; Edgar B. Speer on April 16; and Roger Blough due April 17.

Indiana Harbor and James R. Barker are regular callers at the DMIR ore dock so far this season. The Indiana Harbor is due at the dock again April 13; the Barker is set to follow in a few days.

The steady parade of Canadian lakers continues at Midwest Energy Terminal. Canadian Olympic is due there April 10; Algosoo on the 11th; Canadian Transport on the 13th; and Algobay on April 15. Regular callers Columbia Star, Walter J. McCarthy jr. and Paul R. Tregurtha also are due there this week.

The Cenex Harvest States elevator in Superior is hosting its first "two-fer" of the season. Spar Garnet is loading at berth2 and Millenium Raptor is at berth 1. (Yesterday's report incorrectly listed this vessel as Millenium Falcon).

Mesabi Miner, an occasional visitor to the Twin Ports, departed through Duluth entry early April 10 with taconite pellets from DMIR.

Reported by: Al Miller

ASC Sailings

04/11:
American Steamship Co., Buffalo NY has readied the lists for the ten Great Lakes ships it plans to sail at the start of the 2000 season. In the preceding two seasons, ASC started with a fleet of eleven vessels. No information was given on the status of the Sam Laud whose lease expires at the end of the month.

The captains and chief engineers of the ten vessels are as follows:

AMERICAN MARINER - Captain Duane Dembnuy, Chief Engineer Charlie Campbell
AMERICAN MARINER - Captain John MacFalda, Chief Engineer Jay Martinson/Dan Bartels
ADAM E. CORNELIUS - Captain Dave Kortman, Chief Engineer Paul Baker
JOHN J. BOLAND - Captain William Yowell, Chief Engineer William Rudder
BUFFALO - Captain Harold Person, Chief Engineer Mac Lamp
INDIANA HARBOR - Captain James Vandongen, Chief Engineer Ron Miller
WALTER J. McCARTHY, Jr. - Captain Lawrence Smyth, Chief Engineer Albert Desmond
ST. CLAIR - Captain Ferris Parsons, Chief Engineer Ed Mulvhill
GEORGE A. STINSON - Captain Robert Gallagher, Chief Engineer Tom Sufak
H. LEE WHITE - Captain Steve Draper, Chief Engineer Tom Bradley

Reported by: Dave Wobser

Horne's Ferry to Hamilton

04/11:
On Friday April 7 the William Darrell departed her winter berth from the south shore of Wolfe Island for Heddle Marine in Hamilton. She is due for her five year inspection.

This ferry, owned by the Horne family, connects the south side of Wolfe Island Ontario with Cape Vincent N.Y. and is operated during the navigation season only, between early May and late October. She is a familiar sight for vessels transiting the seaway.

The north side of Wolfe Island is served by the Wolfe Islander III, operating year round between the village of Marysville, Wolfe Island and Kingston.

Reported by: Brian Johnson

Coast Guard Search and Rescue

04/11:
On Sunday, Rescue Coordination Center Trenton requested assistance from Group Detroit in responding to calls for help coming from Detroit River, in the vicinity of Peche Island Provincial Park, Ontario. The U.S. Coast Guard Station Belle Isle responded and an Air Station Detroit helicopter responded to assist a Canadian Coast Guard vessel. Two persons were recovered from the Peche Island shoreline where they swam after their canoe had overturned. Both were transported to the mainland for medical assistance. The overturned canoe was located, but the third person was not. Divers searched with but did not find the third person.

Eldon Mason Fireman of the Steamer Calumet passes

04/11:
One time fireman of the steamer Calumet has died of natural causes in his Home town Royal Oak Michigan at the age of 93. Mr. Mason served the Great Lakes mainly aboard the Calumet between the years 1924 through 1926. His love of the Lakes stayed with him until the end. On his 90th birthday his family rented a St. Claire Michigan bed and breakfast where he later visited the Port Huron Light house where he climbed to the top to stare off into the shipping lanes.

Reported by: Mike Galbraith

Today in Great Lakes History - April 11

IMPERIAL ST. CLAIR entered service on April 11, 1974 light for Montreal, Que.

The J.W. McGIFFIN was christened at Collingwood on April 11, 1972.

The PHILIP D. BLOCK sailed on her maiden voyage April 11, 1925 with coal from Huron, OH bound for delivery at Indiana Harbor, IN.

The A.E. NETTLETON was launched April 11, 1908.

On April 11, 1970 in Lake Superior’s Whitefish Bay the STADACONA (3) encountered thick ice and suffered bow damage. She developed a hairline crack in her bow and to alleviate the leakage her cargo was shifted from her forward hold to her after compartments with her self-unloading equipment. This maneuver raised her bow enough to keep her from sinking before she reached safety.

ENDERS M. VOORHEES was launched April 11, 1942 .

On April 11, 1964 while upbound on Whitefish Bay, Lake Superior, a boiler burst on board the WILLIAM A. IRVIN killing one of the crew and injuring two others.

April 11, 1948 - The ANN ARBOR NO. 7 ran aground just south of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.

On 11 April 1874, the new tug E.H. MILLER burned at her dock at Willow Island in the Saginaw River. Her loss was valued at $9,000 and there was no insurance. Although considered to be a total loss, she was rebuilt and lasted another 46 years.

Data from: Max Hanley, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Seaway Traffic Halted

04/10:
As of Sunday afternoon all traffic through the Eisenhower lock on the St. Lawrence Seaway was suspended until further notice. The Shipwatcher's Hotline at the lock gives no reason for the shut down except to say that traffic is suspended in the Canadian Section of the Seaway.
Check back for updates.

Reported by: Tom Moriarty

Twin Ports Report

04/10:
While most vessels from Great Lakes Fleet are carrying pellets out of Two Harbors, two will be calling at Duluth this week. Edwin H. Gott at DMIR ore docks on April 13. Last year the Gott made periodic trips out of Duluth with pellets to Nanticoke, Ontario. Cason J. Callaway is due at DMIR on the 11th, apparently to unload stone. John G. Munson arrived at Sturgeon Bay on April 8 for repairs. The vessel was expected to be there for six days.

Sunday was no day of rest for vessels in the Twin Ports. Millenium Falcon was at Cenex Harvest States elevator, the first grain vessel of the season for Superior. Courtney Burton was unloading stone at the CLM dock in Superior and Walter J. McCarthy Jr. was, as of late afternoon, backing up St. Louis Bay to load at Midwest Energy Terminal.

Reported by: Al Miller

Saginaw Update

04/10:
The John J. Boland arrived at the front range light Sunday morning shortly before noon. The vessel was going to the Bay Aggregate Dock in Bay City. There was no mention of lightering today.

Reported by: Lon Morgan

Sarina Update

04/10:
Sunday saw a great deal of activity around the Cuyahoga as crews were loading supplies and oil drums aboard. The ship will be sporting a fresh coat of gray paint, the starboard side nearly finished. It appears the aft section has been ballasted.

Also in Sarnia, at the government dock, was the Algoma tanker Algonova, her stern heavily ballasted with the bow out of the water to allow workers from Shelley Machine & Marine Ltd. to make repairs to the bowthruster.

Reported by: George Lee and Peter Whitfield

Toledo Report

04/10:
The CSL Niagara became the first grain boat of the season arriving at Andersons "E" Elevator, she departed on Saturday after loading. The T.W.I. Docks had the first saltie of the season arrive recently. The David Z. Norton was removed from the Toledo Shipyard drydock on Saturday and is now sailing.

The following boats still remain in lay-up: Joseph H. Frantz that is scheduled to load coal at CSX # 4 Dock on Wednesday, the tanker Gemini at the Lakefront Dock, and the Sam Laud near the Toledo Shipyard. It is unknown when the Gemini and Laud will sail.

The Buckeye was the first ore boat of the season arriving at the Torco Dock on Sunday.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Toronto News

04/10:
The excursion vessel Pioneer Queen which was been hauled out at the Atlas crane, is to have 8 feet added to her length before relaunching. The harbor tour boat Harry G. Kimber (formerly the Harbour Commissioner's yacht) has been bought by Toronto Tours, the company which chartered her last season. During the winter the 1961-built Kimber was hauled out and replanked and her gasoline engines were replaced with diesels. She will enter service this season under the name New Beginnings. The harbor tour boat Ste. Marie I has changed ownership.

As of Friday night, Millenium Eagle was still unloading at the Redpath sugar dock.

Reported by: Gerry O.

Line Sold

04/10:
Wednesday's Toronto Star reports that Canadian Pacific LTD's shipping division has struck a deal to acquire Christensen Canadian African Line, owned by Thor Dahl Shipping AS of Norway. The deal includes the three ships operated by Thor Dahl, all of which are regular traders into Toronto.

Reported by: Gerry O.

Canadiana May Sink

04/10:
Last week the Port Colborne Leader reported that a group is considering sinking the former excursion steamer Canadiana as a dive attraction off Port Colborne.

The vessel last operated during the 1958 season and spent many years in lay-up moving from port to port until she was purchased by the Friends of the Canadiana. The group towed the vessel to the Marsh Engineering Dock at Humberstone, Ontario for dry docking in 1988 in hopes of restoring the vessel. Today she remains at the dock partially sunk and resting on the bottom.

Reported by: Skip Gillham

Front Page News

04/10:
The Sunday Edition of the Detroit News and Free Press featured a story on Great Lakes Shipping. The article deals with the problems of low water and includes pictures of Great Lakes freighters.
Click here to view the online edition

Reported by: Nathan Nietering

The Winner Is

04/10:
The latest winner in the weekly drawing was Tom Millar of Anchorage, Alaska. Tom will have his pick of the prizes listed on the User Survey page.

Click here to enter, you could be our winner next Monday.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 10

TEXACO CHIEF (2) was christened April 10, 1969.

The GODERICH (1) was sold April 10, 1963 to the Algoma Central & Hudson Bay Railway Co. and renamed e) AGAWA (2).

The keel was laid April 10, 1952 for the WILLIAM CLAY FORD (1)

The SINCLAIR GREAT LAKES was christened on April 10, 1963

On April 10, 1973 the ARTHUR B. HOMER departed the shipyard with a new pilot house. She had suffered extensive damage the previous fall in a head on collision on the Detroit River.

April 10, 1912 - ANN ARBOR No. 5 struck her stern against the channel in Manitowoc, bending her rudder, and damaging her port shaft.

On 10 April 1875, the propeller EMMA E. THOMPSON was launched at East Saginaw. She was built for Capt. D.F. Edwards of Toledo and cost $20,000. Her dimensions were 125' x 26' x 10'. In 1880, she was rebuilt as a schooner and then returned to a propeller in 1881 when she was given the engine from the propeller AKRON.

Data from: Max Hanley, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Pere Marquette Opens Ludington

04/09:
The Pere Marquette and tug Undaunted arrived Ludington Friday night, during what was hopefully the last snow storm of the season. She was carrying a load of agricultural lime and was unloading Saturday at Laman's dock.

The barge unloading Saturday

Reported by: Max Hanley

Algoma Pair in Saginaw

04/09:
Sometime early Saturday morning the Agawa Canyon passed by and arrived at the Wirt Stone Dock in Saginaw. Ahead of her was the Algoway, also heading to a dock in Saginaw.

With a storm system moving through the water level has been from one extreme to another. Between April 6 at 1042 and April 8 at 0818 there was a 36.96" change in the water level. Saturday morning the level went from -15.36" to a +21.6".

Reported by: Lon Morgan and Dan Maus

Weather Delays

04/09:
Heavy wind and snow prevented the Richard Reiss from leaving her winter lay-up dock in Erie, PA. Saturday morning. The weather did not improve and she is now scheduled to depart for Cleveland at 6am today.

The Saginaw was upbound from Marine City Saturday evening after spending the night and day at dock due to weather. Other boats waiting on weather in Marine City were the James R Barker at the Recor Edison Power Plant and the Middletown at Stokes Point.

At the North slip in Sarnia Saturday, the Cuyahoga is still tied up at her winter berth. She was joined by the recent arrival of the Capt. Henry Jackman which is tied up behind the Cuyahoga. It is unknown if she is there waiting for the weather to improve or other reasons.

Reported by: Peter Whitfield, Duane Upton and Mike Madigan

Cleveland Update

04/09:
On Saturday Cleveland saw heavy weather and a strong current on the Cuyahoga River.

The J.A.W. Iglehart was unloading cement at the Lafarge terminal today and departed Cleveland that morning.

The Wolverine was docked at west 3rd street due to heavy current in the river. She will eventually move to LTV to unload.

The American Republic was docked loaded at Whiskey Island presumably waiting for the current to subside as well.

The salties Isolda and Merweborg were berthed at the lakefront Ceres docks.

All three St. Marys cement barges were in Cleveland Saturday. St. Marys II was unloading at the river dock. St. Marys III was transferring cement to St. Marys I at the lakefront docks. The St. Marys I still has no tug attached and may be used as a storage barge for now. The Tug Triton is still berthed near Carter Street with no crew in sight.

The Dredge barge Ojibway was moving very slowly up the Cuyahoga and also went to the wall above Center Street due to current.

Reported by: Rex Cassidy

Life on the Lake

04/09:
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel continues its series of articles on the season opening trip of the Burns Harbor. The print edition and web page feature a detailed article about what it is like to work on the lakes.

Click here to view the online edition.

Reported by: Jim Zeirke and Andy LaBorde

Today in Great Lakes History - April 09

On April 9, 1960, the Murray Bay (1) (now Comeaudoc) entered service as the first Canadian 730-footer.

The LAWRENDOC (2) was christened jointly with her Collingwood-built sister ship MONDOC (3) on April 9, 1962.

The Wilson Marine Transit Co., Cleveland purchased the FINLAND on April 9, 1957 and resold her the same day to the Republic Steel Corp., Cleveland with Wilson Marine acting as manager.

April 9, 1930 - The CITY OF FLINT 32 entered service under the command of Estan Bayle.

On 9 April 1871, the wooden "rabbit" BAY CITY (152', 372 gt, built in 1867 at Marine City) had just loaded 270,00 feet of lumber in Bay City for Tonawanda, NY when a fire broke out ashore. The ship was set adrift at 11:00 a.m. to get away from the lumber yard blaze. However, as the crew watched the shore fire, sparks smoldered in the ship's cargo. At 2:00 p.m., she burst into flame. Four tugs and a steam-powered fire engine brought along side on a lighter fought the blaze to no avail. The vessel was scuttled to put out the fire. A few days later she was raised and repaired at a cost of $4,000.

Data from: Jody Aho, Max Hanley, Joe Barr, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Munson sails for Bay Ship

04/08:
The steamer John G. Munson is was enroute to Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay WI. yesterday for unspecified repairs. It appears that some type of damage or failure occurred in Conneaut on April 5th or enroute to load at Toledo during the early hours of April 6th.

The Munson was due to load in Toledo, but the Callaway was diverted and will now take the cargo of coal to Gladstone MI. The Munson is due into Sturgeon Bay early today.

Reported by: David French and Al Miller

Algoma in Saginaw

04/08:
The Algoway and Agawa Canyon entered the system Friday morning and both were upbound for Saginaw at 9 a.m. Motorists on M-13 between Bay City and Saginaw might have thought they were seeing double as the two Algoma Central vessels passed, the Algoway leading the Agawa Canyon by about two miles.

The Algoway docked at about 11:40 a.m. at the General Motors dock in Saginaw, and the Agawa Canyon reported in at the Wirt stone dock at the same time. Both vessels expected to depart after three to four hours.

Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Dan Maus

Goderich Update

04/08:
The Federal Rhine arrived Goderich Thursday morning for Goderich Elevators to load soybeans. The Rhine was meet in Lake Huron by the tugs Dover, Debbie Lyn, and Donald Bert for ship assist to the elevator dock .

The Rhine was expected to depart Goderich late Friday. or Saturday morning.

Reported by: MacDonald Marine Limited

Today in Great Lakes History - April 08

The sea trials for the AMERICAN REPUBLIC were conducted in Green Bay on April 8-10, May 4-11 and 18, 1981.

The J.A. CAMPBELL was the first bulk carrier to load taconite pellets that were shipped from Reserve Minings Davis Works at Silver Bay MN on April 8, 1956.

On April 8, 1957 Great Lakes Steamship stock holders voted to sell the entire 16 ship fleet to four fleets.

On April 8, 1977 at Toledo the G.A. TOMLINSON required an estimated $235,000 to outfit her machinery for the up coming season.

The R.E. WEBSTER was launched April 8, 1905 as a) ELBERT H. GARY.

On April 8, 1969, LEON FALK, JR. entered Duluth harbor to become the first vessel to arrive from the lower lake region opening the 1969 shipping season at the head of the lakes. She loaded almost 20,700 tons of iron ore bound for Great Lakes Steel in Detroit.

The ELBERT H. GARY was launched on April 8, 1905.

April 8, 1998 - An unidentified worker was injured in a fall aboard the CITY OF MIDLAND 41 while it was being converted to a barge in Muskegon.

8 April 1871 was a bad day on the St. Clair River. The schooner A. MOSHER had favorable winds, so the captain decided to save the cost of a tow and sail up the St. Clair River without assistance from a tug. In the strong current at Port Huron, the vessel hit some old dock timbers, went out of control and collided with the down bound 3-masted schooner H. C. POST. The POST's main and fore masts were carried away in the collision. After some vehement arguing, the MOSHER sailed on while the POST anchored in mid-river while her skipper went ashore. The schooner JESSE ANDERSON then sailed out of the Black River and rammed right into the side of the POST. This finished the wrecking of the POST's aft mast. The ANDERSON went out of control and went aground on the river bank. The tug GEORGE H. PARKER tried to assist the ANDERSON, but she also got stuck on the mud bank. It was several hours before everything got cleaned up and river traffic was back to normal.

Data from: Joe Barr, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

American Mariner Departs

04/07:
With the last load of fresh laundry delivered by Evenson's Laundry, on a clear sunny early evening, the 720-foot American Mariner departed the dock of Bay Ship at 5:30 p.m. Thursday. She proceeded out of the waters of Sturgeon Bay into Green Bay sailing to load at Drummond Island.

Remaining at the shipyard are the Calcite II, Myron C. Taylor, the George A. Sloan and the Edward L. Ryerson.

The Door County Advocate has reported that the local Maritime Museum has initiated conversations on the possibility of having the Ryerson at a city dock for the summer to provide tours for the large numbers of travelers who visit the county each summer. The Ryerson has spent most of the past five years tied up at Bay Ship.

Reported by: Paul Graf and the Lake Carriers Association

Barker Arrives

04/07:
The James R. Barker arrived at the Recor Edison Power Plant on the St. Clair River late Thursday night to unload her cargo of 54,000 tons of coal. Once she is finished unloading she will proceed to Sturgeon Bay for repairs to damage suffered in Wednesdays grounding in the St. Marys River.

Superior Weather Delays

04/07:
A loaded George A. Stinson was tied up at the Duluth port terminal on the morning of April 6. The vessel was there overnight and departed shortly before 9 a.m.

A forecast of high winds on western Lake Superior during the night of April 5-6 apparently prompted St. Clair to divert from Silver Bay to Duluth, where it tied up at the port terminal on the afternoon of April 5. St. Clair departed Duluth shortly after 5 a.m. Thursday and was expected in Silver Bay about 9 a.m.

Reported by: Al Miller

Pere Marquette 41 Arrives

04/07:
On Tuesday evening the barge Pere Marquette 41 pushed by the tug Undaunted made its first appearance in Marinette, WI. with a load of pig iron for Waupaca Foundry.

Reported by: Chad Michaels

Algorail on Lake Michigan

04/07:
On Tuesday afternoon the Algorail was schedule to unload in Muskegon, MI. She was carrying a load of stone for either Verplank or Stoneco. After a partial unload the vessel departed to finish the unload in Ferrysburg.

Algorail unloading in Ferrysburg Steve Vanden Bosch.

Reported by: Steve Vanden Bosch and Scott Golin

Iroquois Lock

04/07:
Vessels transiting the Seaway near the Iroquois Lock met with cold and snowy conditions on Wednesday and Thursday.
Merweborg at the lock. She is sailing for Cleveland.
Merweborg exiting the lock.
Seaharmony II exiting the lock.
Isolda bow view.
Isolda stern view.
Canadian Progress underway.

Report and images by: Peter Carter

Thunder Bay Report

04/07:
On Wednesday the tugs Peninsula, George N. Carleton and Glenada pulled the Algoisle from her winter lay-up berth at the Ocean Shed, Keefer Terminal, out the south entrance and over to Pascol's Shearleg Dock where she will remain in lay-up.

The Paterson departed the Keefer Terminal late that afternoon and moved to the Cargill Elevator to load grain.

Reported by: Ron Konkol

Davie Industries shipyard purchased by American Group

04/07:
Local newspapers reported Thursday that an American Group Syntek-Trans national Capital Venture based in New York and headed by Joseph Eiger has purchased the ailing Davie Industries. At a press conference held April 5th in Levis Quebec, the new owners expressed hope to announce new contracts in the near future. The Group is also working to attract local investors including employee participation via funds from a Union Industrial Investment Fund.

Reported by: Frederick Fréchette

Ferry Ruling

04/07:
The Door County Circuit Court has sided with the Washington Island Ferry Line is its dispute with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The DNR attempted to require the Ferry Line to allow fishing and provide facilities for sport fisherman at its Northport ferry dock and a prerequisite to being issued a permit to dredge. Since the DNR has not appealed the Court's ruling, the way is now open for the Ferry Line to dredge and improve its facility at Northport. The dredging is all the more important due to the low water this spring.

Reported by: Lew Clarke

Winter Work at USS

04/07:
Winter lay-up is a busy time for all fleets as vessels undergo work that could not be completed during the sailing season. The list below shows the scope of work that fleets must complete in a few short months.

Calcite II

the longitudinal bulkheads were replaced in holds #1 and #2

The sprockets of the bucket elevator were removed, and the original shape was re-established by welding and machining. General repairs were carried out on elevator wheels, chains and pins.

Both generators had minor overhauls.

Myron C. Taylor

Additional work was accomplished on the bucket elevator system following the casualty of the fall of 1999.

The #2 Generator was given a major overhaul.

Both main tunnel belts were replaced.

George A. Sloan

Main engine was overhauled. Improved liners were installed that should give better life than the older design.

The bucket elevator sprockets were removed and the original shape was re-established.

John G. Munson

The low pressure turbine rotor was opened and inspected, along with #1 turbo generator.

The steam whistles were replaced with airchime electric whistles. The new whistles are Canadian made and the first application in the fleet.

Cason J. Callaway

The port main propulsion boiler generating tubes and super heater tubes were replaced. The entire soot blower system for both boilers was replaced. Extensive refractory repairs were accomplished.

The ballast pumps were rebuilt.

The low pressure rotor was opened and inspected.

The #2 turbo generator was opened and inspected. Both turbo generator governors were replaced with a woodward electronic governor system.

Philip R. Clarke

Holds #3, #6 and #7 and the unloading tunnel were blasted and painted to protect the structure from the salt cargoes the vessel will be carrying in 2000.

the #2 turbo generator was rebuilt.

Arthur M. Anderson

Ballast gauges were replaced with a electronic system.

The #2 turbo generator was rebuilt.

The engine room emergency generator was replaced.

Roger Blough

Drydocked so that the vessel could sail the entire season. Extensive repairs were made to the propeller and propeller hub, the rudder stock was replaced. the bottom was painted.

The port main engine was entirely overhauled.

#1 and #3 main generators were given major overhauls

Ballast gauges were replaced with an electronic system.

Presque Isle.

The starboard main reduction was rebuilt with new bull and pinion gear.

The Tug's #2 Generator was replaced with a new caterpillar 3406.

Boom belt replaced.

New incinerator was installed.

Edwin H. Gott

Windlass was repaired.

The head were replaced on starboard main engine.

Solid state winch controls were installed on two winches.

Edgar B. Speer

The engine room bulkhead was renewed.

Port side main engine was overhauled.

Forward windlass was repaired.

#1 and #3 generators were overhauled.

Reported by: Scott B. Tomlinson

SMET March Loadings

04/07:
Coal loadings at Superior Midwest Energy Terminal (SMET) in Superior, Wisconsin, totaled 580,792 net tons in March, virtually the same as last year. However, a comparison of loads in 1,000-footers for the past several years illustrates the impact of falling water levels. Listed below are the largest loadings in a 1,000-footer bound for a lower Lakes port in March of the last four years:

2000 - 61,771 net tons
1999 - 62,350 net tons
1998 - 64,881 net tons
1997 - 65,041 net tons

The comparison will become more dramatic as April loadings become available. Vessels generally load lighter than normal for the first few cargoes of the season just in case there has been some shoaling or other obstruction develop during the winter lay-up period.

Reported by: Lake Carriers Association

Today in Great Lakes History - April 07

The CANADIAN TRANSPORT (2) was christened April 7, 1979.

The tanker ROBERT W. STEWART (b AMOCO MICHIGAN) was delivered to Standard Oil Co. on April 7, 1928 as the second largest tanker in service at the time of her launch.

JAMES LAUGHLIN was launched April 7, 1906.

The EMORY L. FORD was sold on April 7, 1965 to the Reiss Steamship Co. and renamed b) RAYMOND H. REISS, the last boat purchased by Reiss.

TEXACO BRAVE (1) arrived at Ramey's Bend from Toronto April 7, 1975 in tow of tugs G.W. ROGERS and BAGOTVILLE for scrapping.

In 1974 the THOMAS W. LAMONT loaded the initial shipment of ore for the season at the D.M. & I.R. ore docks in Duluth.

On 7 April 1871, the tug S.V.R. WATSON was towing the schooner S.G. SIMMONS out of Chicago harbor at noon when the WATSON stalled. The schooner plowed into her broadside, causing the tug to tip on her beam ends, take on water and sink. Four men were trapped below decks and drowned; two survived. The WATSON was later raised and returned to service.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling CollectionAhoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Barker Grounds

04/06: 9:15 a.m. update
The James R. Barker was downbound in the West Neebish channel of the St. Marys River on Wednesday afternoon when she grounded, damaging the vessel. At 1:30 p.m. the Barker touched the westerly bank of the channel as she was completing her turn into the Rock Cut.

Within 15 minutes, the number one starboard ballast tank was flooded to the load waterline, and pumps were not able to get ahead of the flooding. Divers were hired and worked through the night to survey the damage to the hull. The U.S. Coast Guard will allow the vessel to proceed to St. Clair, Mich., to discharge the vessel's cargo of 54,000 tons of coal at the Edison Power Plant. She will then proceed to Sturgeon Bay for repairs. The U.S. Coast Guard reported this morning that the Barker will remain in the St. Mary's River until the weather improves.

St. Marys River water levels currently are 13 inches lower than the 1999 average, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Coincidentally, the first St. Marys River grounding of 1999 occurred on the same day last year, when the Algontario struck bottom in the upbound channel.

After the grounding the S/V James Bray was instructed to proceed to the site of the grounding, which was just below old Lookout # 4, to survey the bottom for any material which may have been "knocked" into the channel. The Bray arrived on scene late afternoon and upon completing a survey of the area, determined that the channel was clear in the area of the grounding.

Reported by: Jerry Masson, Al Miller, David Swain and Charlie Lampman

Saginaw Visits Namesake River

04/06:
The Saginaw arrived at her namesake river for the first time under her new name on Wednesday, April 5. The vessel passed the Front Range Light at 2:00 p.m. hours, heading for the Bay Aggregates dock in Bay City, then scheduled to proceed up to the Burroughs Dock just north of the I-75 Bridge at Zilwaukee.

She was greeted by a crowd of boatwatchers that had gathered for her arrival about two hours earlier. The Boatwatchers were rewarded by a salute from the vessel.

The Saginaw was followed into the river 30 minutes later by the Earl W. Oglebay, which was going to the Wirt stone docks in Bay City and Saginaw.

The Saginaw arriving at the Front Range. Stephen Hause
Another view of the vessel. Stephen Hause
Moving in the River. Lee Yonkey

Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Brian Ferguson

Mail Boat Returns to Service

04/06:
Shortly after 8:00 a.m. Wednesday morning the J.W. Westcott Company's Mail Boat J.W. Westcott II and back up Mail Boat Joseph J. Hogan departed Gregory's Marina behind Belle Isle on the Detroit River.

Both boats were freshly painted after a winter of painting and maintenance projects. The Joseph J. Hogan's hull has been painted black to match Westcott II

The Westcott II captained by Sam Buchanan and the Hogan captained by Don Carns arrived at their dock under the Ambassador Bridge about an hour later. The first vessel of the season to be serviced by the Mail Boat was the Algolake. The first U.S. vessel was the new John J. Boland.

Reported by: Donna Hastings

Oglebay Norton 1000-Footers at the Soo

04/06:
Oglebay Norton's 1000-footers were well represented at the Soo Locks on Wednesday as both passed through upbound within an hour and a half of each other.

The Columbia Star arrived shortly after noon sailing upbound for Superior Midwest Energy Terminal to load coal. She was followed by the Oglebay Norton who arrived at 1:30 p.m. The Norton had unloaded in Lorain, OH. and was sailing for Taconite Harbor to load for a return trip to Lorain.

On arrival at the locks, both vessels showed signs of battling freezing spray on their trip up Lake Huron with ice cover on their bows. The afternoon sun had melted most of the ice by the time the vessels completed passing through the Poe Lock.

Image of the Oglebay Norton from the Soo Locks Live cam

Reported by: Andy Hering and Mike Cleary

Low Water Delays Miner

04/06:
The 1000-foot Mesabi Miner anchored in the St. Mary's River Tuesday evening near Nine Mile Point. The water level in the Rock Cut was reported at - 19 inches.

Reported by: Scott McLellan

DMIR Update

04/06:
DMIR ore dock in Two Harbors is well into its usual steady run of GLF boats carrying Minntac pellets to Gary and Conneaut. Here's the line-up: Arthur M. Anderson and Roger Blough, April 5; Presque Isle, April 6; Cason J. Callaway and Edwin H. Gott, April 7; John G. Munson, April 9; and Edgar B. Speer, April 10. DMIR ore dock in Duluth is handling its usual mixed bag of boats carrying pellets for EVTAC and ISPAT. Here's the line-up: Buckeye, April 4; Frontenac, April 5; Indiana Harbor, April 7; Courtney Burton, April 8; James R. Barker and Algomarine, April 9.

Reported by: Al Miller

Kingston Harbor Update

04/06:
On Tuesday the excursion ship Island Queen III entered the Metalcraft Marine drydock for her five year inspection. Her sister ships Island Star and Island Belle have since been fitted out and are presently alongside the Brock St. dock awaiting the start of another busy season.

The Canadian Coast Guard ship Simcoe entered harbor on the 5th to begin laying out light buoys, replacing the winter spars.

Reported by: Brian Johnson

Toronto Update - Correction

04/06:
The Algocen departed Toronto harbor on the evening of Monday April 4, destination unknown. On Wednesday the Millenium Eagle was still at Redpath Sugar unloading.

Correction to the report of the Seaway Queen having steam up. The vessel still has her smoke stack cover on and does not look to be departing any time soon.

Reported by: Jim Fitzgerald and Gerry O.

Toronto Work and Ferry Boat Update

04/06:
The Island ferry service will operate the Harbor commission ferry Windmill Point between the Portlands (The Docks Bar) and the Island this summer on weekends and holidays. This service was filled last summer by a charter boat.

The excursion vessel Pioneer Queen was hauled yesterday at the Atlas crane for inspection. P&P 1 (Party & Party One) our City-owned workboat, was relaunched Monday and is being readied for Coast Guard inspection. Jaguar II completed her first charter of the season yesterday. It was snowing when she departed her dock.

Reported by: Gerry O.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 06

ALGOLAKE was christened April 6, 1977, she was the first maximum-sized ship of this type in Algoma's fleet with all cabins aft.

The HON. PAUL MARTIN departed Collingwood April 6, 1985 on her maiden voyage to load grain at Thunder Bay, Ont. bound for Quebec City, Que. She was the largest vessel built at Collingwood as a result of the new Seaway regulations that allowed increased hull lengths beyond the previous maximum overall of 730' to transit the lock systems.

PRAIRIE HARVEST (c) MELVIN H. BAKER II) sailed on her maiden voyage in 1984.

On April 6, 1990 CANADOC (2) was laid up at Montreal, Que. never to sail again.

NOTRE DAME VICTORY (b CLIFFS VICTORY) was delivered to Interocean Steamship Co. on April 6, 1945 under charter from the U.S.M.C.

FERNDALE (2) was launched April 6, 1912 as a) LOUIS R. DAVIDSON

April 6, 1931 - The CITY OF FLINT 32 set a world record sailing 101,000 miles in her first year of service.

On 6 April 1872, the schooner I.N. FOSTER was launched from the Fitzgerald & Leighton yard at Port Huron. She was classified as a "full-sized canaler" since she was as large as a vessel could be to pass through the Welland Canal. Her dimensions were 143' overall, 26'2" beam, 11'6" depth, 437 tons.

Data from: Max Hanley, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling CollectionAhoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Iglehart Departs

04/05:
The J.A.W. Iglehart departed her winter lay-up dock in Detroit last week to load in Alpena. She was in Cleveland on Tuesday morning unloading. The only vessel left in the Inland Lakes Management winter lay-up fleet is the Paul H Townsend.

Reported by: Robin Greathouse and Bill Kloss

Milwaukee Update

04/05:
After end crews arrived this week in Milwaukee on both the Paul H. Townsend and Southdown Challenger to begin fit-out. The Challenger is expected to sail around the 18th of April.

Reported by: Andy LaBorde

Update to Avenger IV

04/05:
The Purvis Marine tug Avenger IV is now berthed in Trois Rivieres (Three Rivers) Quebec, while she and her crew await a Tug from Trois Rivieres that was deadheading from the Caribbean to bring the Tanker/deck Barge back from Jacksonville, Florida.

Under the Gun in the Seaway

04/05:
Vessels transiting the Seaway near the Iroquois Lock found themselves under the gun on Tuesday. Radar gun that is, officials with the Seaway were checking to see that the vessels were maintaining the area speed limits of 13 knots downbound and 10.5 knots upbound.

The Peonia upbound. The radar gun can be seen in the foreground protected from the rain under a plastic cover.
Nanticoke downbound with out the radar gun.
Manitoulin later that evening.

Reported by: Peter Carter

Twin Ports Report

04/05:
Midwest Energy Terminal in Superior expects to see a surge in Canadian boat traffic this week. Canadian Transport and Canadian Enterprise are due on the 5th; Algolake is expected on the 7th; and Canadian Olympic and Algosoo are scheduled for April 9. Rounding out the line-up are regulars Columbia Star on April 6; and Paul R. Tregurtha and Walter J. McCarthy jr. on the 9th.

Burns Harbor arrived Duluth early on April 4 and tucked into the steel berth at the Duluth port terminal for unspecified repairs.

Duluth's AGP grain elevator received its first caller of the season when Norwegian saltie Utviken arrived at midday April 4.

Reported by: Al Miller

Saltie Renamings

04/05:
Several familiar salties have been renamed over the past two weeks.
FEDERAL VIBEKE - Sold to Tomazos Shipping of Greece and renamed KALISTI.
MALLARD - renamed ALEA, she collided with a ULS ship in the Welland Canal 2 or 3 years back
PRAXITELIS - renamed AXION this was the last saltie of the year in Chicago 3 years ago.

Reported by: Chris Franckowiak

Today in Great Lakes History - April 05

On April 5, 1984 the joined sections of the HILDA MARJANNE and CHIMO's emerged from the Port Weller Dry Dock as the b) CANADIAN RANGER.

Sea trials for the PRAIRIE HARVEST (c) MELVIN H. BAKER II) were complete on April 5, 1984.

The G.G. POST was launched April 5, 1902 as a) LUZON

April 5, 1977 - Chessie System announced that the CITY OF MIDLAND 41 would be withdrawn from service and only the SPARTAN and BADGER would run for the season.

On 5 April 1854, AMERICA (wooden side-wheeler, 240', 1083 t, built in 1847 at Port Huron) was bound for Cleveland from Detroit. After the captain had set her course and gone to bed, the 2nd mate changed the course to the north. The 1st and 2nd mates disagreed about the course and as they awoke the captain, the ship ran aground near Point Pelee. Wave action reduced the vessel to rubble but no lives were lost.

Data from: Max Hanley, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Busy Day in Saginaw

04/04:
Monday was a busy day for the Saginaw River. The Buffalo passed the front range light shortly after midnight calling enroute to Zilwaukee.

The Frontenac arrived about 4:00 a.m. at the Essroc Cement Dock in Essexville.

The Earl W. Oglebay arrived at the front range at 11:20 a.m. She was going to the Wirt Stone Dock at Bay City. She will unload part of her cargo and go up to Saginaw to finish.

The water gauge reading shortly before noon from the U.S. Coast Guard Saginaw River Station reported the Saginaw River level at -5". That is a low start for the season.

The Buffalo finished unloading and was outbound passing the inbound Oglebay just north of the front range just after 11:00 a.m.

Reported by: Dan Maus, Lon Morgan and Stephen Hause

Twin Ports Report

04/04:
The first oceangoing ship of the season to call in the Twin Ports was Morias, which arrived in Duluth on April 3 to load at the Cargill grain terminal in Duluth. Utviken is due in April 4 to load at AGP elevator in Duluth. Spar Garnet currently is scheduled to be Superior's first saltie when it arrives over the weekend for Harvest States elevator.

Paul R. Tregurtha is beating a path to the Midwest Energy Terminal, returning there again April 3, followed by Walter J. McCarthy Jr.

Over in Superior, 1,000-footers Burns Harbor and George A. Stinson were both due at the BNSF ore dock during the afternoon.

USS Great Lakes Fleet's AAA boats are making some interesting backhauls this week. Cason J. Callaway was scheduled to load coal April 3 in Sandusky and Philip R. Clarke was due to load salt in Fairport on April 4.

Reported by: Al Miller

Canadian Navigator Departs Bay Ship

04/04:
The Canadian Navigator had departed Bay Shipbuilding as of Monday morning. It is unknown what type of work she was in for.

Reported by: Paul Graf

Cleveland Update

04/04:
On Monday afternoon Oglebay Norton's Wolverine was being led by a Great Lakes Towing tug down the Cuyahoga River. The Millenium Raptor was the second saltie in Cleveland Monday.

Reported by: John Rayburn and Bill Kloss

Lorain Update

04/04:
Saturday was a busy day in Lorain. About 4:30pm, the Buckeye was at the Lorain Pellet Terminal unloading taconite. Then came in Algoma Central's Algoway with the American Republic close behind. The Algoway proceeded past the Buckeye and past the bridge, while the American Republic turned around and heading in stern first as usual.

Over at Fairport Harbor about 6pm the barge Pathfinder and tug Dorothy Ann were loading sand at the Osborne dock.

As reported yesterday the Algoway ran into trouble with the N & W bridge in Black River, OH. The only damage reported was the mast head light on the Algoway and a navigation light on the bridge were broken. The bridge was structurally undamaged and is open to rail traffic. The Coast Guard reports that the apparent cause of the accident is believed to be the bridge tender closing the bridge too soon.

Reported by: Chris Wilson

Barge Sinks

04/04:
Early Sunday morning, a 75-foot construction barge being towed from Hassel, MI to Grand Haven appears to have taken on water and sank in 400 feet of water approximately 15 miles west of Beaver Island on northern Lake Michigan. The U.S. Coast Guard reports that no one was injured in the sinking and it is estimated that 50 gallons of diesel fuel were on board the barge when it went down. The U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Saulte Ste. Marie is investigating the cause of the sinking.

Due in Marinette

04/04:
The William H. Donner has been moved up against the bridge in Marinette, MI. This is a sign that Marinette Fuel and Dock will be receiving a delivery of coal or a large load of salt.

A pulp vessel will becoming to load at Great Lakes Pulp and Fiber in the beginning of May.

Reported by: Scott Best

Free Carferry Magazine

04/04:
The 2000 issue of Lake Michigan Carferry's "Crossings" magazine is now available. To receive you free copy send e-mail to str43@ssbadger.com with "Crossings" in the subject line. Please include you name and address.

For more information visit www.ssbadger.com

Take Our Survey, Win Cool Stuff

Late last year Oakland University announced that they will be discontinuing Alumni Internet accounts. Most of the Boatnerd web site is held on the OU web server. If they include the Boatnerd site it will be necessary for me to buy a large amount of space on a commercial server.

To help with the cost, I am exploring the possibility of offering sponsorship through the sale of banner ads to companies selling Great Lakes related products.

To show potential sponsors what groups viewing Boatnerd are interested in, I have created an anonymous survey. I would like to ask everyone who reads this page to take a few minutes and complete the survey.

It is important that those working in the shipping and related industries also take this confidential and anonymous survey.

All information submitted is generalized and no specific information about you will be gathered. To show my thanks for taking the survey you will have the opportunity to enter into a weekly prize drawing.

Click here to take the Survey.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 04

The keel was laid April 4, 1978 for the Fred R. White Jr.

Sea trials of the tanker ROBERT W. STEWART were run on April 4, 1928

CEDARGLEN was launched on April 4, 1925 as a) WILLIAM C. ATWATER

HARRY W. CROFT was launched April 4, 1908 as a) FRED G. HARTWELL (1)

The E.G. GRACE became the first Maritimer to be sold for scrap when she was sold to Marine Salvage April 4, 1984.

JEAN-TALON was launched April 4, 1936 as a) FRANQUELIN (1)

The Harbor Tug and Fire Boat EDNA G. was launched April 4, 1896

On April 4, 1983 and on April 4, 1984, the William Clay Ford (1) opened the inter-lake shipping season at Duluth. While the William Clay Ford was traditionally among the first vessels to visit Duluth-Superior, it was coincidence that she opened the port on the same day during her last two seasons in service.

On 4 April 1872, the schooner JOHN WESLEY was launched from Bailey's yard at Toledo, OH. She was built for Skidmore & Abairs. She was classed as a full sized canaler and cost $22,000.

Data from: Jody Aho, Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Tadoussac Conversion

04/03:
Last week Canada Steamship lines President and CEO Sam Hayes announced that the company will convert and widen the Tadoussac, this winter, alongside the building of the 3rd forebody for the existing conversion contract.

The conversion will involve the center section of Tadoussac being rebuilt to a beam of 78-feet. The vessels existing bow and stern will be joined to the new center section by transition pieces. The conversion is expected to cost about $20 million (C).

Reported by: Roger Tottman

Lorain Bridge Mishap

04/03:
On April 1 the Algoway was outbound from Lorain, Ohio after unloading salt, when a lift bridge lowered prematurely. The bridge bent the after mast of the Algoway to a 45 degree angle. The vessel arrived in Sarnia, Ont. April 2 where workers from Shelley Machine & Marine quickly began work to remove and repair the mast. This was the second trip of the season for the Algoway, both salt cargoes from Goderich, Ontario.

Reported by: George Lee

Canadian Navigator Arrives Bay Ship

04/03:
The graving dock of Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay, WI was empty for weeks following a busy season with ships in winter lay-up, long enough to reset the blocks and welcome the 730-foot Canadian Navigator. Presumably in for a five year inspection, the Canadian Navigator arrived mid day on April 1. The Calcite II has been moved to an outer dock in preparation for an immanent departure.

Reported by: Paul Graf

First Limestone Arrives at Lafarge

04/03:
The American Republic had the honors of delivering the first load of stone to the Lafarge dock in Cleveland on Saturday. What made this stop even more interesting was the manner in which the boat was tie-up. The bow was only a few feet from the West 3rd Street Bridge. You could almost reach out and touch the bow from the bridge.

Reported by: Al Leonard

Goderich Update

04/03:
The Port of Goderich was kept busy with Algoma ships the last week of March. On Mar. 28 the Algosteel arrived to load salt for Montreal. Mar. 29 saw the Algobay arriving for a salt load bound for Quebec City. She was followed on Mar. 30 by the Capt. Henry Jackman also loading a salt cargo bound for Thunder Bay, the Jackman's draft was just under the 25 ft. mark. on Mar.31. The Algoway arrived for salt, taking a split load for the Rouge then Toledo.

At midnight Friday employees at the Sifto Salt Co. went on strike when labor talks failed. As of Saturday all vessel loadings had been cancelled.

Reported by: MacDonald Marine Limited

St. Clair River Update

04/03:
The St. Clair River saw its first salty of the 2000 season today. The Morias (ex Robin) was seen upbound at Saturday morning under the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron.

The Agawa Canyon was preparing to depart her winter lay-up dock in Sarnia. Throughout the day on Saturday crews were busy with Spring drills and last minute preparations for the new season.

The River was quite busy Saturday, fourteen boats were seen navigating the River system between 10:30am to 6:00pm. At one point in the day, 7 boats were on the River at one time. Although not uncommon during the Summer, that is busy for this early in the season.

Reported by: John A. Harris and Duane Upton

Toledo Update

04/03:
The Algonova was removed from the Toledo Shipyard drydock and sailed from Toledo on Saturday. her destination was Imperial Oil in Sarnia, Ontario.

The Courtney Burton , Earl W. Oglebay and the Wolverine have all departed from their lay-up berths during the past several days. The David Z. Norton is scheduled to sail on April 8th after loading a coal cargo at CSX Docks. The Joseph H. Frantz is scheduled to sail on April 12th after loading a coal cargo at CSX Docks.

The tanker Gemini remains in lay-up at the Lakefront Dock. The Sam Laud is still in lay-up near the Shipyard. There appears to be no fitout activity aboard her for the time being. Her lease to American Steam Ship Company is set to expire at the end of the month.

The Nanticoke was at the T.W.I. Dock loading bug dust which is a very fine granulated coal product. So far this season there has not been any grain or overseas traffic handled in Toledo.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Buffalo News

04/03:
Progress on the new Inner Harbor project along the Buffalo River appears to be moving ahead quickly. A new steel sheet piling dock face has been created about 100 feet back from the existing dock face just north of the Naval Park area. Three Navy ships will be moored in this new basin by the summer of 2001.

Divers have been hard at work removing silt and debris from underneath the hull of the missile cruiser Little Rock. The fleet sub USS Croaker will be temporarily moved to Lackawanna some time this summer. The project has caused some controversy. Preservationists have gone to court to block the destruction of part of the original Erie Canal found buried under the existing parking lot. Ship captains have also expressed concern over the placement of the Navy ships in the corner of a tight turn in the river.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski

Toronto Update

04/03:
Utviken, the first salty of the season, arrived at Toronto's Redpath Sugar dock Wednesday afternoon. She unloaded and departed some time before 06:00 this morning.

Seaway Queen has been moved around the corner at Pier 35; rafted to Canadian Trader. The Queen had steam up on Friday.

Capt. John Jones sold his tug Glenmont in January to Mac Mokarchuck (who owns the charter boats Stella Borealis, Aurora Borealis and Jaguar II, and the dredge Primrose) and his partner John Winney. Glenmont was hauled out at Pier 35 on Friday. The new owners plan to add 20 feet to her length.

The Island ferry Ongiara was hauled out at the Atlas crane on Friday afternoon for general repairs and inspection. She is scheduled to go back into service on Monday.

The venerable ferry Sam McBride began service for the season on Friday afternoon. The Toronto city inside workers strike affects the ferry service, because the mates belong to the union local. They are being replaced during the strike by management captains.

There is a rumor that the Harbour Commission back-up car ferry Windmill Point will be used this summer by the Island ferry service to transport passengers to the island on weekends and holidays, from the Portlands at the east end of the harbor.

Some time last week the charter ship Wayward Princess was placed on Toronto Dry Dock for general repairs. The former USACE tug Sauk, converted to an auxiliary schooner by Capt. Norm Rogers and renamed Alison Lake, has left her winter berth in Shelburne, Nova Scotia and is reportedly now in Boston with mechanical difficulties.

The Toronto schooner Empire Sandy, which has been working in Nassau, Bahamas again this winter, will make a trip to Cuba and from there will make her way back to Canada via Freeport and various U.S. ports to again take her place in the Toronto excursion trade.

Reported by: Gerry O.

Joseph Medill to Become a Tour Boat

04/03:
Docked next to the Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin is the Chicago fire boat Joseph Medill It is reported that she has been bought by John Selvick after 50 years of service in the Chicago Fire Department. The new owners plan to refurbish the vessel to serve as a floating dining room and tour boat with a capacity for 200 passengers. Much work is needed on the vessel, including new windows and engines, a redesigned dining room, and a passenger lounge. Plans call to have her ready for service by June 1, 2000.

Reported by: Stephen Sostaric

U.S.C.G.C Harry Claiborne Commissioned

04/03:
On Friday the latest of the keeper class cutters was commissioned in a ceremony held at Coast Guard Group Galveston, Texas. The Claiborne is the 11th of 15 new Keeper Class vessels built at Marinette Marine in Wisconsin. She will be home ported in Galveston.

The cutter (WLM-561), will have a mission of maintaining aids to navigation along the Texas gulf coast.

The Harry Claiborne has a special tie to the Galveston area - it's namesake was the lightkeeper at the Bolivar Point Light Station during the tragic 1900 storm that killed more than 6,000 people on Galveston Island. Claiborne saved 125 people during the storm by sheltering them inside the lighthouse. He also kept the light burning to warn ships caught in the storm.

Official guests at the ceremony were to include: U.S. Rep. Nick Lampson (9th District); Nancy E. McFadden, general counsel for the Department of Transportation and sponsor of the Harry Claiborne ; Rear Adm. Paul J. Pluta, Eighth Coast Guard District Commander; and Mr. Jim Driscoll of Marinette Marine.

Harry Claiborne makes use of state-of-the-art electronics and propulsion systems to more accurately position and place buoys. The cutter is also able to operate with only 18 people, fewer than would traditionally be needed for a ship of this size.

Harry Claiborne is replacing the 180-foot cutter Papaw that was decommissioned July 23, 1999, after nearly 56 years of service.

Reported by: Chad Michaels

Steamship William G. Mather Crew Reunion

04/03:
Former crew of the Str. William G. Mather (Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. fleet, 1925 - 1980) are invited to celebrate the Mather's 75th year afloat on the anniversary of its launching, May 23, 2000. The Mather, is now a museum ship permanently moored on downtown Cleveland, Ohio's lakefront. An onboard rededication ceremony will begin at 2 PM followed by refreshments and tours. For reservations and information, former Mather crew members can call the Museum at (216) 574-9053. Click here to visit the Mather web site.

Know Your Ships 2000

04/03:
The 2000 edition of “Know Your Ships,” the popular, annual guide to boats and boatwatching on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway, is now available. Besides complete listings (name, owner, year built, length, tonnage and former names) for more than 2,500 lakers, tugs, barges, excursion boats, museum ships and salties, this year’s 41st edition of “Know Your Ships” includes an in-depth look by Jody Aho of marine milestones attained during the past 100 years of Great Lakes shipping. In addition, historian Al Miller tells the story of a trio of familiar sisterships - Arthur M. Anderson, Philip R. Clarke and Cason J. Callaway - featured collectively as this year’s Vessel of the Year. The stack and flag pages have been redesigned for easier use (and even more stack markings have been added).

In addition to “Know Your Ships," Marine Publishing Co. has also issued a 24-page, full color “Soo Locks Visitor’s Guide” this spring. Besides details on the operation of the Locks, the booklet contains many new and historic photos showing the history of the Locks and the vessels that pass through them.

To order either volume, visit the “Know Your Ships” home page at www.knowyourships.com

The Winner Is

04/03:
The first winner in the weekly drawing was William A. Tucker, Jr. of Roanoke, IN. William will get his pick of the prizes listed on the User Survey page.

Click here to enter, you could be our winner next Monday.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 03

On April 3, 1991 the pilothouse of the WILLIAM CLAY FORD (1) was moved by barge towed by Gaelic tug's CAROLYN HOEY and placed on a specially built foundation at the Dossin Museum for display facing the Detroit River as a fully equipped pilot house.

LIQUILASSIE was launched April 3, 1943 as a) TEMBLADOR.

On 3 April 1872, the passenger/package freight steam barge ROBERT HOLLAND was launched at Marine City, MI. She was towed to Detroit by the propeller TRADER to have her machinery installed.

Data from: Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Buffalo in Saginaw

04/02:
The Buffalo opened the 2000 season for the Saginaw River, arriving at Saginaw Rock Products on Saturday, April 1, at 1500 hours. The vessel was drafting only about 19 feet as she came upriver. Water levels on the river this spring are even lower than at the end of last season, and can be expected to worsen as this season progresses.

Reported by: Stephen Hause and Lon Morgan

Gaelic Assists Louis R. Desmarais

04/02:
On Saturday morning the Gaelic Tugboat Company tugs Patricia and Carolyn Hoey were assisting the Louis R. Desmarais into the Blue Circle Cement dock in the Rouge River. The Desmarais was expecting two Great Lakes Towing tugs to assist her but the G tugs did not arrive.

Last year Gaelic returned to the ship assistance business in the ports of Detroit and Toledo.

Follow Along With the Burns Harbor

04/02:
The season's first trip of the Burns Harbor was covered by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The newspaper had a reporter and photographer on board.

The paper's April 9th edition will offer extensive coverage in both the Lifestyle and Business sections.

Click here to view the story

Reported by: Andy LaBorde and Jim Zeirke

Take Our Survey, Win Cool Stuff

Late last year Oakland University announced that they will be discontinuing Alumni Internet accounts. Most of the Boatnerd web site is held on the OU web server. If they include the Boatnerd site it will be necessary for me to buy a large amount of space on a commercial server.

To help with the cost, I am exploring the possibility of offering sponsorship through the sale of banner ads to companies selling Great Lakes related products.

To show potential sponsors what groups viewing Boatnerd are interested in, I have created an anonymous survey. I would like to ask everyone who reads this page to take a few minutes and complete the survey.

It is important that those working in the shipping and related industries also take this confidential and anonymous survey.

All information submitted is generalized and no specific information about you will be gathered. To show my thanks for taking the survey you will have the opportunity to enter into a weekly prize drawing.

Click here to take the Survey.

Today in Great Lakes History - April 02

On April 2, 1951 CLIFFS VICTORY was towed, bound for New Orleans, LA, with her deck houses, stack, propeller, rudder and above deck fittings stored on or below her spar deck for bridge clearance. She was outfitted with two 120 foot pontoons, which were built at the Baltimore yard, that were attached to her hull at the stern to reduce her draft to eight feet for passage in the shallow sections of the river/canal system.

LEON FALK, JR was launched April 2, 1945 as a) WINTER HILL, a T2-SE-Al World War II single screw fuel tanker for U.S. Maritime Commission.

CLIFFORD F. HOOD was launched April 2, 1902 as the straight deck Bulk Freighter a) BRANSFORD.

The SENATOR OF CANADA sailed under her own power on April 2, 1985 to Toronto, Ont. where she was put into ordinary next to her fleetmate the QUEDOC (2). She was later scrapped in Venezuela.

The WHEAT KING was lengthened by an addition of a 172'6" mid-section (Hull #61) and received a 1000 hp bowthruster. This work reportedly cost $3.8 million Cdn and was completed on April 2, 1976.

On April 2, 1953, the J.L. Mauthe (now Pathfinder (3) entered service.

April 2, 1975 - The State of Michigan filed a Federal Court suit to stop the Grand Trunk Railway from selling GRAND RAPIDS. It was felt that selling the ferry would build a stronger case for abandonment of the entire ferry service.

On 2 April 1874, A.H. HUNTER (wooden propeller tug, 58', 28 gt) was launched at Saginaw, MI. She was built for Donnelly & Clark of Saginaw by Wheeler. The engine was built by Bartlett & Co. of Saginaw. Her boiler and some other equipment were from the almost new tug KATY REID which burned at Salzburg, MI in October 1873.

Data from: Jody L. Aho, Joe Barr, David Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history

Indiana Harbor First Through

04/01:
Indiana Harbor was the first vessel of the season to enter the Twin Ports through the Duluth ship canal. The 1,000-footer arrived the evening of March 30. The bridge had been closed since late last year for renovation and was about a week late in reopening. The bridge was seen limbering up with some test lifts earlier in the afternoon.

Reported by: Al Miller and Larry Curnow

New Fednav Vessel

04/01:
Fednav's new Federal Rideau passed through the Iroquois Lock yesterday on her way to Detroit.

Below are pictures taken Friday afternoon.
Passing the Oakglen before entering the lock
Entering the Iroquois Lock
Close up of the stern
Exiting the lock
Underway

Report and pictures by: Peter Carter

Algoma Day at the Soo

04/01:
Friday was the first of many to come Algoma Days at the Soo Locks. The Algosteel was upbound for her namesake, Algoma Steel, The Algomarine was departing Algoma Steel enroute to Marquette, the Algolake was downbound with coal for Nanticoke, the Algocape was behind her downbound and the Capt. Henry Jackman was upbound.

As the Algomarine was departing Algoma Steel she had a total blackout due to a faulty voltage regulator. She dropped her anchors until she regained power 30 minutes later. All this as the Algosteel was approaching to enter the Canadian Channel to the Steel Mill.

Also in the St. Marys River Friday upbound were the Armco, and the Edwin H. Gott. Downbound was the Roger Blough and the Joe Block.

Marquette Update

04/01:
On Friday the first shipment of coal from below the locks for Wisconsin Electric arrived when the Charles M. Beeghly pulled into the upper harbor ore dock for its first visit of the year.

As mentioned above the Algomarine was scheduled for arrival late Friday evening. She departed Marquette on Thursday, this will make it her second visit in as many days.

Reported by: Art Pickering

Detroit Opener

04/01:
Monday, April 3, 2000 marks the official opening of the Port of Detroit's international shipping season. The Port of Detroit will welcome its first ocean-going vessel of the 2000 shipping season, the Federal Rideau, at 1:30 p.m. at Nicholson Terminal & Dock Company, River Rouge, Michigan.

John Jamian, executive director and Steven Olinek, deputy director of the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority (DWCPA) will welcome the Hong Kong-flagged vessel, which sailed from Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The Port Authority will make a formal presentation of the J. L. Hudson trophy, which has been presented each year since 1952, to the ship's master, Captain S. M. Kazi.

The Fednav Limited vessel is making its maiden voyage after being launched in Japan in January of this year. ``The Port Authority is proud to carry on this tradition which recognizes the importance that maritime transportation plays in Detroit's regional economy. We salute the efforts of Fednav, Nicholson Terminal and World Shipping,'' said the DWCPA's Jamian.

Reported by: Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority

Today in Great Lakes History - April 01

The a) STEWART J. CORT was commissioned on April 1,1972.

In April 1965, the J.A. CAMPBELL was renamed c) BUCKEYE MONITOR.

Realizing that the bulk trades were too competitive, Captain John Roen's Roen Transportation Co. sold the CAPTAIN JOHN ROEN to the American Steamship Co. (Boland & Cornelius, mgr.) on April 1, 1947 for $915,000.

The ROY A. JODREY started her first full season opening navigation at the Soo Locks April 1, 1966 with a load of stone for Algoma Steel.

Dismantling of the G.A. TOMLINSON (2) began on April 1, 1980 and was completed eight months later in December.

April 1, 1903 - Gus Kitzinger of the Pere Marquette Line Steamers, acquired the PERE MARQUETTE 3 & 4 from the Pere Marquette Railway Co.

Sailors at Chicago went on strike on 1 April 1871 for an increase in pay. They were getting $1.50 a day. Some ship owners offered $1.75 but when word came that the Straits of Mackinac were clear of ice, the sailors demanded the unheard of daily wage of $3.25. Although some ships stayed in port, the $1.75 wage was accepted and the barks MARY PEREW, J.G. MASTEN and C..J. WELLS, along with the schooners DONALDSON, PATHFINDER and CHAMPION set sail on 1 April 1871.

Data from: Joe Barr, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series

This is a small sample, the books includes many other vessels with a much more detailed history
Please e-mail if you would like to contribute a significant event in Great Lakes history