Great Lakes & Seaway Shipping News Archive

Cleveland Report

07/31:
Saturday was another busy day in Cleveland. The tug Sea Eagle and cement barge arrived for Blue Circle Cement but had to wait at Dock 20 for the downbound Pathfinder to clear. The David Z. Norton departed from the LTV steel mill late Saturday night.

The Stephen B. Roman was expected to arrive at Blue Circle early Sunday morning and the Sea Eagle was expected to move to CBS and wait for her to unload. The Roman usually docks at the new silos at Dock 20 or the Lafarge Dock.

Reported by: Rex Cassidy

Toronto High Value Cargo Up

07/31:
The Toronto Star, July 29th edition, reports that the Toronto Port Authority is looking for 100,000 square feet of storage space for high value cargo.

To date 53 foreign ships have visited Toronto compared to 70 for all of last year. The port authority is projecting that another 50 foreign ships will arrive before the end of the season.

The paper reports that high-value shipments have rose from 81,400 tonnes in 1995 to 255,500 tonnes last year.

The port charges 65 cents/ton for handling bulk cargoes such as stone and salt while charges of $ 6.00/tonne and up are applied on high-value cargo.

Since March of this year the port has handled 158,000 tons of high value cargo.

Coast Guard Festival

07/31:
This year marks the 76th anniversary of the Coast Guard Festival in Grand Haven. Four cutters will be featured: the 140-foot icebreaking tugs Neah Bay and Mobile Bay; the 180-foot buoy tender Acacia; and the 290-foot ice breaker Mackinaw.
The vessels will be open to the public for tours and the times are subject to change:
7/31 and 8/1 6-8 p.m.
8/2 9-11 a.m., 1-4 and 6-8 p.m.
8/3 9-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.
8/4 9-11 a.m. and 6-8 p.m.
8/5 9-11 a.m. and 3-8 p.m.

Sunday's (8/6) departure times usually are during the morning and early afternoon hours.

Reported by: David Swain

Lake Ontario Dredging

07/31:
Vessels from the Gradall Marine Contracting Company of Toledo OH, are presently dredging the Irondequiot Bay outlet. This outlet is located on Lake Ontario and about 3 miles east of the Port of Rochester.

The tug Prairieland, derrick barge and two spoil barges are working in the area. It is unusual to see any commercial activity in or near Irondequiot Bay.

Reported by: Jason LaDue

American Steamship Launches New Web Site

07/31:
ASC has just released their new web site. You will find pictures and information on your favorite vessels, and detailed information on the company.

Visit www.gatx.com/asc to view this great new site.

New Trip Raffle

07/31:
There has been a lot of interest in boat trip raffles since the last raffle ended. The International Ship Masters' Association Port Huron Lodge is offering a Chance to win a trip aboard the American Steamship Company 1000 ft. Walter J. McCarthy, Jr.

Click here for details

First Annual Gathering - EAST

07/31:
The first Gathering at the Soo was such a hit the viewers of this web site have asked that we organize another informal meeting.

The next Gathering will take place Saturday, October 28 on the Welland Canal during the fall grain rush. Each fall freighters carrying grain are busy moving the harvest from the heart land of North America down the Seaway. Be there to catch all the action.

Click here for details

Today in Great Lakes History - July 31

Sea trials took place for the JAMES R. BARKER this day in 1976. She was to become Interlake's first 1000 footer and the flag ship of the fleet for Moore McCormack Leasing, Inc. (Interlake Steamship Co., Cleveland, Ohio, mgr.). She was built at a cost of more than $43 million under Title XI of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. She was the third thousand footer to sail on the Lakes and the first built entirely on the Lakes.

On July 31, 1974 as the Liberian vessel ARTADI approached the dock at Trois Rivières, Que. where she damaged the docked GORDON C. LEITCH's stern.

The CEDARBRANCH (2) was damaged and sunk by an explosion on July 31, 1965 several miles below Montreal, Que. resulting in a loss of one life.

On 31 July 1849, ACORN (wooden schooner, 84', 125 t, built in 1842 at Black River, Ohio) was struck amidships by the propeller TROY near West Sister Island in Lake Erie. She sank quickly, but no lives were lost since all hands made it to the TROY.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

John W. Brown Update

07/30:
The World War II Liberty Ship John W. Brown departed Cleveland Saturday morning to take her passengers on a "voyage into history" cruise on Lake Erie.

The "voyage into history" was enjoyed by the more than 700 passengers on board. Passengers were treated to tours of the ship, dancing to 1940's music of a live Big Band, a flyby of WW II vintage aircraft and much more. Tickets are still available for the Toronto Cruise on August 6. The cruise is well worth a trip to Toronto, you will be treated to a entertaining day on a historic steamer that will never again be seen on the lakes.

The Liberty Ship will be open for tours while in Cleveland at Dock 32 East, behind the Science center and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Be sure to stop by, for a $5.00 donation you can tour a piece of history that will never again be seen on the lakes. Her next port of call will be Buffalo, she is expected to arrive on August 1.

For additional details, call 410 558-0164 Visa/MC accepted. Visit the Brown's web site at www.liberty-ship.com

Pictures of the Brown Arriving.
Decks full will passengers, the Brown departs for a cruise.
Video of the tug Washington assisting the Brown into dock. 1.3 meg

For more pictures of the Brown click here

Report and pictures by: TZ

Fleetmates Visits Toledo

07/30:
Lower Lakes Towing's Saginaw departed the new stone dock at CSX Coal Docks around 3:30 p.m. Saturday. This is believed to be her first trip to Toledo under her new name.

Fleetmate Cuyahoga is due at Andersons "E" Elevator some time on Monday. She will load corn for Port Colborne, Ontario delivery.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Wolverine in Saginaw

07/30:
Saturday afternoon the Wolverine was in bound at the Saginaw River front range light, this is her second trip to the area since Thursday. She was heading to unload at the Wirt Stone Docks in Bay City and Saginaw. The vessel cleared the Bay City dock at about 5:30 p.m. and was upbound for Saginaw.

The Wolverine arrived at the Wirt Stone Dock in Saginaw early Thursday afternoon. The vessel departed the dock about 7:30 p.m. and was outbound on the river during the evening. Each trip she has loaded at Stone Port.

Reported by: Stephen Hause and Lon Morgan

Today in Great Lakes History - July 30

Four years ago, on July 30, 1996, a portion of a coal cargo aboard the H. M. Griffith caught on fire while the vessel was approaching Whitefish Point. The burning cargo was dumped into Lake Superior after the vessel's unloading boom was swung outward.

The News page of this site was "Launched" reporting the coal fire aboard the Griffith.

The GORDON C. LEITCH (1) was launched July 30, 1952 for the Upper Lakes & St. Lawrence Transportation Co. Ltd., Toronto, Ont.

The Ice Breaker ALEXANDER HENRY entered service July 30, 1959.

On 30 July 1871, the 162' bark HARVEY BISSELL was carrying lumber from Toledo to Tonawanda, NY. When she was on the western end of Lake Erie, she sprang a leak. Although the crew worked the hand powered pumps constantly, the water kept gaining at a rate of about a foot an hour. The tug KATE WILLIAMS took her in tow, intending to get her to Detroit to be repaired, but this proved impossible. So the BISSELL was towed close to Point Pelee and allowed to sink in 14 feet of water. The WILLIAMS then left for Detroit to get steam pumps and other salvage equipment. On returning, they pumped out the BISSELL, refloated and repaired her. She lasted until 1905.

On 30 July 1872, the Port Huron Dry Dock launched SANDY, a lighter. Her dimensions were 75' x 20' x 5'.

On 30 July 1873, George Hardison of Detroit announced the beginning of a new shipyard in Port Huron, Michigan. It would be located above the 7th Street Bridge on the Black River on land owned by J. P. Haynes, accessible by River Street. Within 30 days of this announcement, the new yard had orders for two canalers three-and-aft rig for delivery in the Spring of 1874. Their dimensions were to be 146' overall, 139' keel, 26' beam and 11'6" depth.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

Crewman Missing

07/29:
At 6:30 Friday morning crews on board the John J. Boland were unable to locate a crewmember that failed to report for his watch. The Coast Guard reports that the man had taken ill and went to his room about 3:30 p.m. Thursday afternoon. Shipmates check on him throughout the day Thursday and became alarmed when he did not show up for the watch Friday morning.

He was last seen at 8:00 p.m. Thursday night while the vessel was upbound in Lake Huron off Presque Isle sailing for Marquette, MI.

After searching the vessel the crew contacted Coast Guard Group Sault Ste. Marie, who began a massive search and rescue effort to locate the missing man.

Friday afternoon crews searching the St. Marys River recovered a pair of shoes about a mile apart in the Middle Neebish Channel. Images of the shoes were sent to the Boland, who had reached Marquette, and the crew confirmed they were the type he was wearing.

The search continued until 9:45 p.m. Friday night when it was officially suspended.

Wana Naree grounds in Duluth

07/29:
The 566-foot saltie Wana Naree was aground in Duluth for about an hour Friday night. She departed the Peavey Connor's Point elevator at about 6:45 p.m. on Friday, July 28th, with the assistance of the tug Minnesota, outbound for the Aerial Bridge.

About 15 minutes later she ran aground just downstream of the Blatnik Bridge, about 900 feet off of the St. Lawrence cement dock on the Port Terminal, as she crossed the East Gate Basin.

Apparently, the Minnesota was released from assisting the vessel before the grounding and headed back to her dock.

Ironically, the Wana Naree grounded right next to the barges that have been conducting dredging operations in that area of the harbor for the last two months. She appeared to be working her engines hard, swinging back and forth for about an hour. She finally freed herself at about 8:00 p.m., and then spent 10 more minutes maneuvering to avoid the shoal before heading out of the harbor, departing through the Duluth Ship Canal at about 8:50 p.m. She freed herself without the assistance of tugs.

The only other commercial vessel delayed in the grounding was the Columbia Star. The Star waited at the Superior Midwest Energy Terminal for a few extra minutes to depart while the Wana Naree maneuvered to avoid hitting the shoal a second time.

The Wana Naree is loaded with corn destine for Algeria.

Reported by: Eric Holst

John W. Brown Update

07/29:
The Liberty Ship John W. Brown arrived in Cleveland Friday morning. She was assisted into Dock 32 East, behind the Science center and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by the tugs Washington and Delaware.

The Liberty Ship will be open for tours while in Cleveland. Be sure to stop by, for a $5.00 donation you can tour a piece of history that will never again be seen on the lakes.

At 10:00 a.m. this morning the Brown will take passengers on a sold out cruise into Lake Erie.

Tickets are still available for the Toronto Cruise on August 6. The cruise is well worth a trip to Toronto, you will be treated to a entertaining day on a historic steamer that will never again be seen on the lakes.

For additional details, call 410 558-0164 Visa/MC accepted. Visit the Brown's web site at www.liberty-ship.com

Pictures of the Brown Arriving. TZ
The Brown arrives at Cleveland's break wall.
The tug Delaware on the Brown's bow.

For more pictures of the Brown click here

Reported by: Rex Cassidy and TZ.

Ferry Sinks

07/29:
The Thursday edition of the Brockville Recorder & Times reported that police were called to the Royal Canadian Yacht Club in Toronto on Wednesday to investigate the sinking of the historic passenger ferry Hiawatha, in 26 feet of water at dockside. The Hiawatha, built in 1895 and considered one of the worlds oldest vessels still in daily service, was apparently boarded and sunk by vandals while moored at its dock. A passerby noticed early Wednesday that the 66-foot vessel was not at its usual dock and upon investigation saw its outline through the clear water.

The Hiawatha's sister vessel the Kwasind was also left semi-submerged and adrift, but was salvaged and returned to its dock. Police investigation continues but the police suspect that vandals opened the sea valves, allowing the vessel to fill with water.

Reported by: John Reynolds

Twin Ports Report

07/29:
Several Canadian straightdeckers have called in the Twin Ports recently for grain. The latest arrival is Canadian Provider, which was loading durum July 28 at Cenex Harvest States.

The U.S. Coast Guard's Mackinaw is scheduled to make an unusual call July 29 at Midwest Energy Terminal. U.S. Rep. David Obey of Wisconsin, U.S. Rep. Jim Oberstar of Minnesota and Coast Guard officials are scheduled to hold a 9:45 a.m. press conference aboard the ship to discuss details of building an icebreaker to replace the Mackinaw.

Barge Sarah Spencer was back in Duluth again July 27. The barge unloaded a partial cargo at General Mills before shifting next door to unload the remainder at Cargill B2.

Reported by: Al Miller

Transfer in Thunder Bay

07/29:
On Friday the Canadian Transfer remained at Pascol Engineering in Thunder Bay. She is docked undergoing some type of hydraulic system repairs and is expected to depart some time today.

Reported by: Ron Konkol

Toledo Update

07/29:
On Friday the Algowest was removed from the Toledo Shiprepair drydock by the Gaelic tugs William Hoey and Susan Hoey. The West proceeded to the CSX Coal Dock to load coal.

The USCGC Bramble departed Toledo around 8:15 a.m. Friday.

The Federal Mackenzie was at the T.W.I. Dock unloading steel products. The tanker Gemini was at the B-P Oil Company Dock loading cargo.

The Canadian Ranger was at Andersons "K" Elevator and The Atlantic Huron at Andersons "E" Elevator. both vessels are loading grain. The Atlantic Huron was expected to depart by Friday evening. Once the Huron departs the Canadian Ranger will proceed to Andersons "E" Elevator to finish loading.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Seaway Update

07/29:
For the first time in many years, a vessel registered in Switzerland is expected to transit the Seaway. The Sabina is expect to arrive in the next few days bound for Toledo. This general cargo ship was launched at Hoogezand, Netherlands in December 1999 under the name Greta C. for Carisbrooke Shipping of Cowes, I.O.M. Before completion or shortly after she was completed, she was sold to Enzian Shipping of Basle, Switzerland and renamed.

A vessel which visited the Lakes earlier this year was expected to go up the Seaway Friday from Montreal bound for Burns Harbor, IN with the new name Spar Ruby. She is on charter to Fednav and her stack markings are painted with the company colors. The vessel is registered at Bergen, Norway. As Solveig, she called earlier this year at a few lake ports including Thunder Bay, from where she sailed on May 21 loaded with grain.

Arriving in Montreal approximately five hours apart Friday were two Swedish flagged roll-on/roll-off vessels. , The Tor Humbria was first to arrive went to an anchorage while her fleetmate, Tor Anglia tied up at section 48. It was unusual to see them in port as they normally are in service in Europe between Immingham, England and continental ports.

Two former Canadian-flag tankers were renamed recently. Jennie W. was renamed Orfeo and Petrawak, formerly Nancy Orr Gaucher of the Socanav fleet was renamed Tonga for service under the Belize flag. Her original name was Lana under which identity she completed at least one voyage to Great Lakes ports.

Another renaming is Thorscape becoming Jaya Star under the Singapore flag. The vessel spent several weeks at anchor in Toronto harbour last year.

Reported by: René Beauchamp

Today in Great Lakes History - July 29

The OTTERCLIFFE HALL cleared Lauzon July 29, 1969 on her maiden voyage as the last "straight deck" Great Lakes bulk freighter built with a pilot house forward.

While at the Manitowoc Ship Building Co. for general repairs and engine overhaul, the CITY OF SAGINAW caught fire on July 29, 1971 and destroyed her upper deck and forward section. Damages were estimated from $450,000 to $750,000 and were not repaired. The CITY OF SAGINAW 31 was sold to Marine Salvage Ltd., Port Colborne, Ont. for scrap.

On July 29, 1974 the W.W. HOLLOWAY grounded in Lake St. Clair off the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club running downbound with stone. Lightering into the J.F. SCHOELKOPF,JR. was necessary before she was freed by four tugs on July 31st.

ENDERS M. VOORHEES departed River Rouge on her maiden voyage July 29, 1942 bound for Duluth, MN to load iron ore. She was the second of five "Supers" for the Pittsburgh fleet to enter service.

July 29, 1974 - The "PERE MARQUETTE 21" was towed to Milwaukee on July 29, 1974 and reduced to a barge.

July 29, 1971 - A fire broke out on the City of Saginaw 31, destroying her cabin deck and rendering her useless for further use. The blaze was caused by an acetylene torch, and caused over $1 million in damage.

The steam barge MARY ROBERTSON burned near Mackinac on 29 July 1872. Her crew escaped to a schooner-barge they were towing.

The MATERIAL SERVICE foundered in a heavy summer gale in 1936 off the South Chicago lighthouse. She was a canal motor barge not designed for open-lake use.

Data from: Jerry Pearson, 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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

Crewman Missing

07/28: 4:45 p.m., 3:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. updates
Crews searching the St. Marys River have recoved a pair of shoes about a mile apart in the Middle Neebish Channel this afternoon. The Coast Guard continues the search for the missing crewman.

At 6:30 this morning crews on board the John J. Boland were unable to locate a crewmember that failed to report for his watch. After searching the vessel the crew contacted Coast Guard Group Sault Ste. Marie, who began a large search and rescue effort to locate the missing man. Friday afternoon the search continued focusing on the St Marys River.

The missing crewmember was last seen at 8:00 p.m. Thursday night while the vessel was upbound in Lake Huron off Presque Isle. The ship reported the crewman missing between Light 26 in the St. Marys River and Presque Isle Michigan.

Check back for updates.

John W. Brown Update

07/28:
On a beautiful Thursday evening the Liberty Ship John W. Brown departed Erie, PA. as a crowd of about 200 people and several pleasure craft looked on. The Brown is headed to Cleveland where she is expected to arrive early this morning. The Liberty Ship will be open for tours while in Cleveland and on Saturday she will take passengers on a sold out cruise into Lake Erie.

Tickets are still available for the Toronto Cruise on August 6. The cruise is well worth a trip to Toronto, you will be treated to a entertaining day on a historic steamer that will never again be seen on the lakes.

For additional details, call 410 558-0164 Visa/MC accepted. Visit the Brown's web site at www.liberty-ship.com

Pictures of the Brown departing. Jeff Thoreson
The Brown departs Erie.
Stern view
Iowa holding the Brown at dock.

For more pictures of the Brown click here

Reported by: Jeff Thoreson and Mike Madigan Jr.

Elton Hoyt 2nd to Load Grain

07/28:
The Elton Hoyt 2nd was unloading iron ore at Rouge Steel in Detroit Thursday. The vessel is expected to then head to Duluth for cargo hold certification and load grain for Buffalo, NY. She is expected to arrive with the first load in Buffalo early on the morning of August 3.

While in Two Harbors last month the Hoyt was inspected to determine what modifications would be needed to become certified to carry grain. Since that time crews have performed the necessary work.

In December 1997 the Hoyt carried a load of sugar beets. This was the first time a self-unloading vessel carried sugar beets. The vessel successfully carried 1200 tons of beets to Marysville, MI and the Hoyt was dubiously dubbed the "Beet Boat".

Boatwatchers question how this will effect the future of the last U.S. straight deck grain vessel, the Kinsman Independent. The Independent has long been rumored to be in her final years of sailing. She normally works a trade route carrying grain from Duluth to Buffalo.

Two charged with breaking into the John Sherwin

07/28:
Two men face felony charges for breaking into the idle steamer John Sherwin at its dock in Superior apparently in search of an adventure and ship souvenirs, according to a report in the July 27 Duluth News Tribune.

The men are accused of taking the vessel's guest log, a ship mail bag, sunglasses with the name of the vessel on it and a navigation chart, then explored the empty 806-foot ship for two hours. They face a felony charge of burglary to a ship, a charge not often seen in court logs. According to court records, they had to give the souvenirs back.

The men, both from Duluth, appeared Wednesday in Douglas County Circuit Court on the charges. They haven't yet entered pleas.

According to court records, the two went to Connors Point last month to explore the John Sherwin, which has been idled in the Twin Ports since 1981. Once the flagship for the Interlake fleet, the 42-year-old vessel is now owned by Interlake's sister company, Lake Shipping Co. Inc.

Court documents allege the two climbed around a fence to get aboard, then entered the pilot house through a porthole. Inside, drawers and files were rifled and paper burnt. One man told police they were looking for souvenirs and a flashlight and tried to create a torch with a screwdriver and paper, the criminal complaint said.

After collecting some souvenirs, they wandered around the ship for two hours, looking at its features, Eldred told a detective.

Reported by: Al Miller

Transfer Arrives for Repairs

07/28:
On Thursday the Canadian Transfer arrived at the Pascol Engineering Shearleg Dock on Thursday morning. She is in for some type of repairs.

She was assisted to the dock by the tugs Peninsula and George N. Carleton. She is expected to remain at the dock for at least four days.

Reported by: Ron Konkol

Today in Great Lakes History - July 28

ALGOWEST passed Detroit, Mich. downbound on July 28, 1982, she had departed on her maiden voyage July 26 from Thunder Bay, Ont. to Quebec City with a 27,308 tonne load of barley.

b) ADAM E. CORNELIUS was christened July 28, 1973 at AmShip by Mrs. Roger Kyes as the a) ROGER M. KYES

COASTAL CANADA was launched July 28, 1952

The JOHN T. HUTCHINSON was delivered on July 28th to the Buckeye Steamship Co. (Hutchinson & Co., mgr.), Cleveland. The JOHN T. HUTCHINSON was part of a government program designed to upgrade and increase the capacity of the U.S. Great Lakes fleet during World War II. In order to help finance the building of new ships, the U.S.M.C. authorized a program that would allow existing fleets to obtain new boats by trading in their older boats to the Government for credit. The JOHN T. HUTCHINSON was the ninth Maritimer and fourth of the six L6-S-Al types delivered. "L6" meant the vessel was built for the Great Lakes and was 600 to 699 feet in length. The "S" stood for steam power and "Al" identified specific design features.

On 28 July 1854, BOSTON (wooden propeller, 134', 259 t, built in 1847 at Ohio City, Ohio) was bound from Chicago for Ogdensburg, NY with pork, corn, whiskey and produce. On Lake Ontario, about 20 miles off Oak Orchard, NY, she collided with the bark PLYMOUTH and sank in about 20 minutes. No lives were lost. The crew and passengers made it to shore in three lifeboats. The boat that the captain was in sailed 50 miles to Charlotte, NY.

One hundred years ago, on 28 July 1900, the freighter PRINCETON was launched at Lorain, Ohio for the Pittsburgh Steamship Company.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

John W. Brown Update

07/27:
The John W. Brown participated in an air battle re-enactment off Erie, PA. in Lake Erie Wednesday. The Brown steamed into the lake about 6:30 p.m. with a full load of passenger. Those on the cruise were treated to a mock ariel attack as a fighter defended the ship from attacking Japanese Zeros.

The Brown is scheduled to be open for tours today from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. She is docked at the Foot of Holland Street. The Brown will depart Erie at 7:00 p.m. and arrive in Cleveland early Friday where she will be open for tours and a sold out cruise on Saturday.

Tickets are still available for the Toronto Cruise on August 6. The cruise is well worth a trip to Toronto, you will be treated to a entertaining day on a historic steamer that will never again be seen on the lakes.

For additional details, call 410 558-0164 Visa/MC accepted. Visit the Brown's web site at www.liberty-ship.com

Pictures of the Brown during the Erie Cruise.
The Brown departs for the cruise.
A NA-64 Yale aircraft flies over the Brown.
Close up of the Yale.
A Japanese Zero attacks the Brown on Lake Erie.
"Brownie the River" painted on the Brown.
The G tugs Iowa and Ohio at the Erie sand and gravel dock.

For more pictures of the Brown click here

Report and pictures by: TZ

Independent Update

07/27:
The Kinsman Independent and Enterprise changed places on Tuesday morning. The Enterprise is now docked at the General Mills Frontier Elevator on the Buffalo Ship Canal while the Independent is out at the Buffalo Port Terminal Slip "A".

The Kinsman Independent arrived in Buffalo July 3. She unloaded part of her cargo at the Lake and Rail dock and then shifted to General Mills for short term lay-up with a partial storage cargo aboard.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski

Two Harbors Update

07/27:
Residents of Two Harbors are working on two restoration projects related to lake shipping.

A group of five people is cleaning and restoring the chime whistles of the 110-foot tug Edna G., which served the Two Harbors ore docks from 1896 to 1981 before being retired as a floating museum. Several weeks ago they removed the 200-pound set of whistles to clean the dirt and rust from chimes. They then "bead-blasted" the whistles to remove old paint and sand. Once clean, they took the whistles to the DMIR shops in Proctor, Minn., to convert them from steam to compressed air. Northshore Mining Co. is providing a cover for the two compressed air tanks that will power the whistle's new compressor. Danny's Auto in Two Harbors covered the cost of repainting the whistles. A test blow revealed the whistles still sound good with their high-pitched, melodious sound. The whistle set consists of a three-chime whistle and two single-chime tubular whistles. Extra care is being taken to preserve the whistles' original sound.

Another group of Two Harbors residents is working to restore the rotating beacon to the Two Harbors lighthouse, which recently has been decommissioned and is now owned by the Lake County Historical Society. The rotating beacon, which uses a 1,000-watt light bulb, operated from 1972 until is malfunctioned in 1998. It was then replaced by a smaller, flashing light. The Two Harbors lighthouse, which sits at the entrance to the harbor across from the DMIR ore docks, is now a bed-and-breakfast inn.

Reported by: Al Miller

Toronto Update

07/27:
Tuesday the heavy lift salty BBC Denmark departed for Port Weller. The tug Rosebud arrived in Toronto. The new City of Toronto flags were hoisted for the first time on all the Island ferries today.

On Monday the BBC Denmark unloaded a large yacht at the Atlas crane dock. The Hamilton Energy came in with fuel. The "Festival Of Lights" Awards Ceremony was held on board the River Gambler. The River Gambler shared a $25,000 1st Place Award with the yacht Destiny. The prize money goes to the Gambler's charity, The National Ballet of Canada. Second place award went to Empire Sandy, charity money going to St. John's Ambulance. Third place award went to Enterprise 2000, whose charity was Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Sunday the U.S.S. Defender departed port, assisted by the tug Atomic. The Stephen B. Roman was still unloading cement at Essroc. The cruise ship Le Levant departed port. The saltie Thorslake was unloading at Pier 51.

Saturday, July 22 the U.S.S. Defender and Le Levant in port. Stephen B. Roman arrived with cement. The Thorslake arrived at Pier 51.

Friday, July 21 the 75-foot trawler yacht Kelana was refloated at Toronto Drydock. U.S.S. Defender in port. Salty Pytheas departed for Port Weller with tug assistance. The Le Levant arrived in port.

Reported by: Gerry O.

Saltie Arrives

07/27:
The Bahamas registered saltie Tecam Sea arrived in Ashtabula Wednesday.

The Tecam Sea and tug Deleware heading to dock.
Another view.

Reported by: TZ

Today in Great Lakes History - July 27

On 27 July 1884, ALBERTA (steel propeller passenger/package freight vessel, 264', 2282 gt, built in 1883 in Scotland) collided in fog ) 6 miles NNW of Whitefish Point on Lake Superior with the JOHN M. OSBORNE (wooden propeller "steam barge", 178 ft., 891g , built in 1882 at Marine City. The OSBORNE had two barges in tow at the time. ALBERTA stayed in the gash until most of OSBORNE's crew scrambled aboard, then pulled out and the OSBORNE sank. ALBERTA sank in shallow water, 3 1/2 miles from shore. 3 or 4 lives were lost from the OSBORNE, one from ALBERTA in brave rescue attempt while trying to get the crewmen off the OSBORNE. This was ALBERTA's first year of service. She was recovered and repaired soon afterward. She was the sister of the ill fated ALGOMA which was lost in her first year of service. The wreck of the OSBORNE was located in 1984, 100 years after this incident.

One hundred years ago, on 27 July 1900, the steel freighter RENSSELAER was launched in Cleveland, Ohio for the Pittsburgh Steamship Company.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

John W. Brown Arrives

07/26:
On a beautiful sunny morning the Liberty Ship John W. Brown arrived in Erie, Pennsylvania Tuesday. The Brown is scheduled to be open for tours today from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. She is docked at the Foot of Holland Street.

Tickets are still available for the Toronto Cruise on August 6. The cruise is well worth a trip to Toronto, you will be treated to a entertaining day on a historic steamer that will never again be seen on the lakes.

For additional details, call 410 558-0164 Visa/MC accepted. Visit the Brown's web site at www.liberty-ship.com

Pictures of the Brown arriving in Erie.
The Brown Arrives. Jeff Thoreson
Another view. Jeff Thoreson
Stern view. Jeff Thoreson
Tug Ohio arrives. TZ
Ohio working on the Brown's stern. TZ
Ohio moves to the bow to assist in docking. TZ
The Brown at dock. TZ

For more pictures of the Brown click here

Reported by: Jeff Thoreson

Norris Works Marquette Shuttle

07/26:
On Tuesday the James Norris made its third visit in five days to Marquette loading taconite for Algoma Steel at the Soo. Three more trips are scheduled as of July 25. Fleetmate Canadian Transfer remains at Algoma Steel with a "difficult to unload" cargo of coal. That load is being unloaded by clamshell. The Transfer arrived on July 19.

Reported by: Rod Burdick

Toledo Update

07/26:
Traffic in Toledo remained brisk on Tuesday. At the T.W.I. Dock were the salties Stefania 1 and Kapitonas Sevcenko, both vessels were unloading steel products.

The saltie Pytheas was loading grain at Andersons "E" Elevator with a scheduled departure late Wednesday afternoon. The Atlantic Huron is the next scheduled vessel to load grain at this facility when the Pytheas departs. The Canadian Ranger continued to unloading wheat at the A.R.M.S. Dock, once finished she will clean out her cargo hold and then proceed to the Andersons "K" Elevator to start loading grain. Once the Atlantic Huron is finished at Andersons "E" Elevator the Canadian Ranger will then shift over to Andersons "E" elevator to finish the loading.

The tug Barbara Andrie and her barge unloading liquid asphalt. At the B-P Dock was the tug Mary E. Hannah with her barge loading a petroleum cargo.

The H. Lee White was loading coal and was due to depart around 11:00 a.m.

The Algowest remains in drydock. She is expected to come off the drydock today and proceed to the CSX Coal Dock to load at noon.

The Reserve is the next scheduled ore boat due to arrive at 9:30 a.m. this morning.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Cleveland Report

07/26:
On Monday the Salty Stefania 1 was at unloading at the Ceres docks. A St. Marys cement barge and tug were unloading at their Cuyahoga River dock. The Myron C. Taylor was departing the old river at 3:30 p.m. heading for Calcite, MI and fleetmate Calcite II was loading salt on the old river.

The Myron C. Taylor departing TZ

Reported by: Rex Cassidy

Oglebay Norton Reports Record Revenues

07/26:
On Monday Oglebay Norton Company announced results for the second quarter and first six months ended June 30, 2000. Highlights for the period include:
Revenues for the quarter reached $98.5 million, a 14% gain from $86.7 million in the year-earlier period, and were $146.8 million for the first six months, up 12% compared to $131.7 million in the first half of 1999.
The company successfully completed the Michigan Limestone Operations acquisition on April 18, which contributed to the Lime and Limestone segment’s results in the second quarter. The company also completed the niche acquisition of Jebco Abrasives by Industrial Sands during June.

Oglebay Norton Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer John Lauer said, "Demand continues to remain strong across all of our business segments and markets. This increased demand coupled with ongoing operational improvements has helped offset the decline in earnings from Marine Services caused by low water levels and higher fuel costs. In view of the continuing pressure on Marine Services margins and the sale of both the Detroit and Ingersoll operations of Global Stone during the third quarter of 1999, we were pleased to achieve earnings which topped the strong year-ago results."

He continued, "Our Marine Services fleet continues to be fully booked for the remainder of the season. Revenues for the quarter and first half improved slightly compared with last year’s results; however, primarily as a result of low water levels and higher fuel and labor costs, operating income declined 46% and 49% respectively from the prior year results.

Visit Oglebay Norton's web site for more information

Today in Great Lakes History - July 26

The ALGOWEST sailed on her maiden voyage in1982 from Thunder Bay, Ont. to Quebec City with a 27,308 tonne load of barley.

On July 26, 1943 the BRUCE HUDSON caught fire while loading gasoline at East Chicago, IL and four persons lost their lives.

The CONALLISON departed Windsor, Ont. on her first trip for Johnstone on July 26, 1981.

WILLIAM A. McGONAGLE (2) sailed light on her maiden voyage from the shipyard on July 26, 1916 to Duluth, MN to load iron ore.

On 26 July 1877, CUMBERLAND (wooden side-wheeler, 205', 629 gc, built in 1871 at Port Robinson, Ontario) struck bottom at the Rock of Ages Reef off Isle Royale in good weather and sank in relatively shallow water. Later she was broken up by waves and her wreckage washed up on shore on what is now known as "Cumberland Point."

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

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

John W. Brown Arrives

07/25: 10:00 a.m. Update
On a beautiful sunny morning the Liberty Ship John W. Brown arrived in Erie, Pennsylvania. The Brown gave a security call at 6:00 a.m. and arrived at Erie one hour later. She was asstisted into port by the Great Lakes Towing tugs Ohio and Iowa.

The John W. Brown is scheduled to be open for tours today from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. She is docked at the Foot of Holland Street.

Tickets are still available for the Toronto Cruise on August 6. The cruise is well worth a trip to Toronto, you will be treated to a entertaining day on a historic steamer that will never again be seen on the lakes.

For additional details, call 410 558-0164 Visa/MC accepted. Visit the Brown's web site at www.liberty-ship.com

Pictures of the Brown arriving in Erie.
The Brown Arrives.
Another view.
Stern view.
Tug Ohio.
Stern view of tug.

For more pictures of the Brown click here

Reported by: Jeff Thoreson

Challenger and Conquest in Port

07/25:
On Monday afternoon the Southdown Challenger made her way into Charlevoix, MI. for another load of cement, this time destined for Ferrysburg, MI. It is not unusual to see the Challenger every four to five days in Charlevoix, but this time it was unique because her fleetmate the Southdown Conquest tied up right behind her. The Conquest docked at the breakwall to wait for the Challenger to load. Her next port of call is unknown.

Reported by: Dustin Sadowski

More Summer Boat Traffic in Sturgeon Bay

07/25:
American Canadian Caribbean Line's Niagara Prince, a 174-foot cruise ship, was in Sturgeon Bay Monday morning tied up at the city dock in front of the Stone Harbor Resort and Conference Center. Passengers were enjoying downtown shopping while others were given bus tours of Door County while in port.

Daily cruises, a new offering to the area, are available this summer aboard the Fred A. Busse. The Busse is a former Chicago fireboat operated by the Chicago Fireboat Cruise Co. At 92-feet, the fire red Busse still sports much of its fire fighting apparatus as it cruises the waters of Sturgeon Bay around Sherwood Point, the old stone quarry area and the shipping canal.

Reported by: Paul A. Graf

Twin Ports Report

07/25:
The work week got off to a busy start Monday morning in Duluth-Superior. Merweborg was loading grain at AGP elevator in Duluth, Pilica was under the dockside cranes at the Duluth port terminal with general cargo to unload, Federal Hudson was ready to load at Cenex Harvest States and Wana Naree was just being pushed into the Peavey Connors Point berth by two G-tugs. Algocen was being unloaded at the St. Lawrence Cement terminal. Also expected Monday were Edwin H. Gott to load taconite pellets at DMIR, Alpena to unload cement in Superior and Duluth, and Canadian Transfer to load pellets at BNSF ore dock.

Reported by: Al Miller

Toledo Update

07/25:
On Monday the Cartierdoc was loading grain at Andersons "E" Elevator. She departed late in the afternoon and as soon as she cleared the Maumee River the "G" tugs Louisiana and Illinois towed the saltwater vessel Pytheas up river to Andersons "E" Elevator to load grain. She will depart sometime on Wednesday. The Canadian Ranger was unloading wheat at the A.R.M.S. Dock which is destined for the Nabisco plant. The Kapitonas Sevcenko was discharging cargo at the T.W.I. Dock. The U. S. Coast Guard Cutter Bramble was at the City Docks near the Willis B. Boyer museum ship.

The tug Mary E. Hannah and her barge were unloading cargo at the Seneca Oil Company Dock.

The Algowest remains in drydock at the shipyard. She is expected to be removed from the drydock on Wednesday and move to the CSX Coal Dock to load coal. The next scheduled coal boat was the American Mariner with an e.t.a. of 4:00 a.m. this morning. The next boat scheduled to load ore is the Reserve with an e.t.a. of 9:00a.m. Wednesday.

The annual Marine Mart is scheduled for Saturday September 9 from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. It will again be held in a large tent in front of the Willis B. Boyer.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Iroquois Lock Traffic

07/25:
On Monday the Daviken passed through the Iroquois Lock sailing downbound for Quebec.

Bow view
Stern view.

Report and pictures by: Peter Carter

Today in Great Lakes History - July 25

The bow section of the ROGER BLOUGH was floated into the new Lorain dry dock on July 25, 1970 and was joined with the 421 foot stern section. The launch of the completed hull was scheduled for July, 1971 but a fire broke out in the engine room on June 24, 1971 killing four yard workers and extensively damaging her Pielstick diesel engines. Extensive repairs, which included replacement of both engines, delayed the launch for nearly a year.

The CANADA MARQUIS (c) FEDERAL MACKENZIE) was upbound at Detroit, Mich. on July 25, 1983 on her maiden voyage.

July 25, 1983 - A wedding was held aboard the Badger during the sailing of "Love Boat II". Chris Gebhart and Pat Sroka of Ludington were married by Rev John Christensen.

The wooden lumber tug CYGNET, which worked on the Shiawassee and Bad Rivers and Lake Huron, was destroyed when her boiler exploded in "Blow-up Bayou" on the Shiawassee River.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

John W. Brown Departs Early

07/24:
The John W. Brown will not be open for tours today as expected. She is scheduled to depart Windsor early this morning to refuel at the Sterling Fuel docks south of Ambassador Bridge. Her next stop is Erie, Pennsylvania. She is expected to arrive at Erie on Tuesday where she will be open for tours from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Tickets are still available for the Toronto Cruise on August 6. The cruise is well worth a trip to Toronto, you will be treated to a entertaining day on a historic steamer that will never again be seen on the lakes.

For additional details, call 410 558-0164 Visa/MC accepted. Visit the Brown's web site at www.liberty-ship.com

Reported by: Ken Kilbreath

Marblehead Update

07/24:
On Friday July 21st a barge believed to be the Kellstone was loading at the Marblehead Stone Dock. On Saturday the 22nd the Richard Reiss was loading stone at Marblehead.

Reported by: Rex Cassidy

Iroquois Lock Traffic

07/24:
Below are pictures traffic passing through the Sunday.

Le Levant passing Brockville at about 6:00 p.m.
Tecam sea entering the locks at Iroquois.
Jakov Sverdlov in the lock.
BBC Denmark departing the lock carrying a private boat on deck.
Closeup of the boat.

Report and pictures by: Peter Carter

John W. Brown Photo Gallery

07/24:
The John W. Brown Photo Gallery has been updated with more than 50 new pictures.

How would you like to own a piece of the John W. Brown? Project Liberty Ship's fund raising campaign, "Rivet Drive 2000" is now underway. For a small donation you can buy a "Rivet Bond" and receive an original 1942 rivet from the Brown. Click here for pictures and details

Today in Great Lakes History - July 24

The ALGOSOO (2) was Launched July 24, 1974 for Algoma Central Railway, Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.

The BURNS HARBOR sea trials were conducted on July 24, 1980 during which she performed an emergency stop in 3,160 feet loaded to a depth of 25/26 feet. She was the third thousand footer built for Bethlehem and the tenth on the Great Lakes.

ST.CLAIR (2) was launched July 24, 1975

The WILLIAM G. MATHER (2) left the River Rouge on her maiden voyage July 24, 1925 for Ashtabula, OH to load coal for the Canadian lakehead at Port Arthur/Fort William, Ont.

The wooden steamer OSCAR TOWNSEND was launched at 2:20 PM at E. Fitzgerald's yard in Port Huron on 24 July 1873. The launch went well with a few hundred spectators. She was built for use in the iron ore trade by the Lake Superior Transportation Co. Her dimensions were 210' overall, 200' keel, 33'10" beam and 15' depth. She had three masts and was painted deep green.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

John W. Brown Cruise

07/23:
Under a sunny skies the World War II Liberty Ship John W. Brown left Windsor's Dieppe Gardens dock exactly at 10:00 a.m. She was preceded by the Joseph H. Thompson and Jr., she sailed upriver towards Lake St. Clair and the Canadian National Anthem and American National Anthem could be heard playing from the shore as she departed. The Brown was escorted by the Detroit Fire Boat Curtis Randolph providing a grand water show, tug Shannon, Diamond Jack's tour boat Diamond Queen and numerous pleasure craft.

The "voyage into history" was enjoyed by the more than 700 passengers on board. Passengers were treated to tours of the ship, dancing to 1940's music of a live Big Band, a flyby of WW II vintage aircraft and much more. Tickets are still available for the Toronto Cruise on August 6. The cruise is well worth a trip to Toronto, you will be treated to a entertaining day on a historic steamer that will never again be seen on the lakes.

For additional details, call 410 558-0164 Visa/MC accepted. Visit the Brown's web site at www.liberty-ship.com

The John W. Brown will be open for tours in Windsor today from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Reported by: Ken Kilbreath

Saginaw in Grand Haven - Update

07/23:
The skilled crew onboard the Saginaw made quick work of the electrical problems that developed on Friday as they began to unload stone at the Meekhof's lower dock. Repairs were complete late Friday night and she depart early Saturday morning after unloading.

Reported by: David Swain

Federal Funds to Improve Navigation System

07/23:
The Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority reports that federal funding has been secured for a comprehensive study on how to improve the Great Lakes navigation system. The study will help to identify critical areas for improvement and updating, as well as create opportunities for new maritime technology and vessel design.

A senate panel approved funds in the amount of $500,000 on July 13, 2000. The appropriation of the funds is pending their inclusion in the final Energy and Water Appropriations Bill in fiscal year 2001. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District Office, will administer the study.

The Shipbreakers

07/23:
As reported Friday, the August 2000 issue of Atlantic Monthly has a fascinating cover article entitled "The Shipbreakers". It describes the present day business of scraping ships in India.

The article is available online at www.theatlantic.com

Reported by: Dale Stephan and Andy LaBorde

Today in Great Lakes History - July 23

The Keel for the TEXACO CHIEF (2) was laid July 23, 1968.

CANADOC (2) sailed on her maiden voyage July 23rd.

The RED WING (2) was christened on July 23, 1960 as the first all-welded vessel to emerge from Port Weller Dry Docks.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

Saginaw Visits Grand Haven

07/22:
The Saginaw split her load, unloading at Muskegon and Grand Haven on Lake Michigan. Thursday night at 10:15 she made her way into Muskegon and on Friday morning she arrived at Grand Haven.

It was an inauspicious day for the Saginaw's first visit to Grand Haven harbor. She developed electrical problems while getting her boom into position to unload stone at the Meekhof's lower dock. The crew is working quickly to try to resolve the problem, as the vessel is situated right in the middle of the river and two vessels are due in today. One at Construction Aggregates and the other at the Meekhof's upper river dock. Both docks are upstream from where the Saginaw stays idle as of 6:00 p.m. Friday night.

Reported by: Don Geske and David Swain

Norris Visits Marquette

07/22:
Seaway Marine Transport's veteran steamer, James Norris, loaded taconite in Marquette on Friday, July 21, for Algoma Steel at the Soo. It was her first Marquette visit since July of 1998 and only her fifth in 12 seasons.

Reported by: Rod Burdick and Art Pickering

USS Updates

07/22:
The Calcite II arrived at Menominee Paper about 5:00 a.m. Friday morning with a load of coal for the paper mill. She was expected to proceed to Port Inland, MI. Friday evening to load for Cleveland.

The Roger Blough continues to make trips on the lower lakes. Yesterday she was passing Detroit bound on another trip to Conneaut, OH. She was expected to arrive early this morning and then proceed back to Two Harbors.

Calcite II unloading at sunrise in Menominee. Dick Lund
The Roger Blough passing Detroit. Pat Pavlat

Reported by: Chad Michaels and Pat Pavlat

Twin Ports Report

07/22:
After unloading stone at the Cutler dock, Courtney Burton made an unusual call July 21at Midwest Energy Terminal.

Twin Ports grain traffic perked along July 21. After quickly unloading at the Duluth port terminal, Vaasaborg shifted to the General Mills elevator in Duluth to load beet pellets. In Superior, familiar visitors Mecta Sea was loading at Peavey Connors Point and Mina Cebi was at Cenex Harvest States. Wana Naree was anchored on the lake waiting for a berth.

Reported by: Al Miller

Saginaw Update

07/22:
Friday was a busy day in Saginaw. The Adam E. Cornelius arrived at Saginaw Rock Products during the night and departed early Friday morning. After turning, the vessel tied up at the Sargent Dock near the I-75 bridge to await passage of the Algorail.

The Algorail arrived at the Buena Vista Dock at Saginaw at 10:15 a.m. She departed the dock at 3:40 p.m. and went up to the turning basin.

The Louis R. Desmarais was still at Essroc in Essexville at 12:50 p.m. when the Cornelius passed her heading out to the bay.

The barge Pathfinder and tug Dorothy Ann was expected to pass the front range lights at 8:20 p.m. enroute to the Rock Products Dock in Saginaw.

Reported by: Stephen Hause and Lon Morgan

History in the Making

07/22:
The John W. Brown will be open for tours in Windsor Sunday July 23 and Monday July 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Brown is scheduled to depart Windsor at 2:00 p.m. July 24 for Erie, PA. Be sure to stop by, for a $5.00 donation you can tour a piece of history that will never again be seen on the lakes.

At 10:00 a.m. this morning she will depart Windsor with 700 passengers heading up river and into Lake St. Clair. She should return about 4:00 p.m.

In three ports the Brown will offer locals one of the vessel's famous "Living History Day Cruises." All cruises are sold out except for the cruise departing from Toronto. For additional details, call 410 558-0164 Visa/MC accepted. Visit the Brown's web site at www.liberty-ship.com

Today in Great Lakes History - July 22

PERE MARQUETTE 22 was launched on July 22, 1924.

One hundred years ago on 22 July 1900, the tug MATT H. ESSER was launched at Lorain, Ohio by H. D. Root for Captain Burke of Erie.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

John W. Brown Update

07/21:
The John W. Brown arrived safely against the Windsor dock Thursday afternoon about 5:45 pm with the assistance of the Gaelic Tugboat Company's tugs Patricia Hoey and Carolyn Hoey. As the ship approached Windsor passing under the Ambassador bridge the Detroit Fireboat Curtis Randolph put on a water show, and the U.S. Mail Boat J.W. Westcott II carried press people and photographers out for a look.

The John W. Brown will be open for tours in Windsor July today through the 24th (except Saturday) from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Be sure to stop by, for a $5.00 donation you can tour a piece of history that will never again be seen on the lakes.

Heading up the Detroit River
Stern view upbound on the Detroit River.
Tug Carolyn Hoey leads the Brown.
Carolyn Hoey working with the Brown.
Close up of the stern from the tug Patricia Hoey.
Having turn the Brown against the river's current, she docks safely in Windsor.

Report and pictures by: William Hoey

Ex USS Conawango to assist John W. Brown into Windsor

07/21:
The Liberty ship John W. Brown can only be landed against her port side. This means that the ship must be landed with her bow down the river, so the Gaelic Tugboat Company will dispatch their 2,000 hp tug Shannon for the job Saturday. The Shannon is the former U.S. Navy tug Connawango, YTB 388 built in 1943 for service in the Pacific. She later served at the Charleston Navy yard in Navy district 7. Marine artist Paul LaMarre and his son John have spent the past two days repainting the stack on the Shannon to her Navy appearance for Saturday's tow. The LaMarre's also touched up the gold lettering "Shannon" on the front of the pilot house.

Painting the stack
Touching up the name

Townsend Returns to Service

07/21:
On Wednesday the Paul H. Townsend departed temporary lay-up bound for Green Bay to unload their storage cargo of cement. The Townsend arrived on Thursday.

Reported by: Andy LaBorde

Cuyahoga Visits Kingsville

07/21:
The Cuyahoga was in Kingsville, Ontario Thursday morning to unload a cargo of stone. Kingsville is on Lake Erie's north shore north of Pelee island. She unloaded at one of the two docks that the Pelee Island ferry uses.

The Cuyahoga unloading.

Report and pictures by: Norm Barton

Twin Ports Report

07/21:
Kaye E. Barker, an occasional visitor to the Twin Ports, called in Superior on July 20 to unload stone at the CLM dock. The images below show the vessel after unloading was completed. The small tender Maxine Thompson tied alongside the Barker's starboard quarter is from Fraser Shipyards. After leaving Superior, the Barker was scheduled to proceed to Silver Bay to load.

The saltie Vaasaborg was at the Duluth port terminal July 20 unloading wood pulp. It's as least the second pulp cargo brought here this season by a "borg" vessel.

The DMIR ore dock in Duluth continues to attract vessels that don't commonly call in the Twin Ports. Nanticoke is due again July 25 and Saginaw is due back July 26.

Pictures of the Barker Unloading
At the dock.
Maxine Thompson alongside the Barker.
The Barker's bow.

Report and pictures by: Al Miller

Soo Update

07/21:
The Canadian Transfer arrived at Algoma Steel Tuesday evening loaded with coal, and began unloading. She encountered hydraulic problems and moved to the Algoma Export Dock where she was being unloaded by Purvis' new barge the PML9001 Thursday. The clam bucket is unloading her and loading large Euclid Trucks with the Coal. The Transfer's fleetmate, the James Norris also arrived loaded with coal for Algoma Steel.

Summer Shipping Activity in Sturgeon Bay

07/21:
While the Sturgeon Bay area and specifically Bay Shipbuilding Company are more familiarly known for the winter lay-up of 14-16 lakers, recent weeks has seen increased activity in and around Sturgeon Bay.

Clipper's 207-foot long Nantucket clipper made a port of call on Wednesday, July 19. The 100 passenger vessel tied up at the Sawyer Dock on the west side of Sturgeon Bay, taking on fuel from two 18-wheel tanker trucks. The Nantucket Clipper departed through the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Thursday morning, 7/20, heading out into Lake Michigan.

Shortly after, the barge St. Mary's Cement pushed by the tug Petite Forte, entered Sturgeon Bay off of Lake Michigan, passed through both the Bay View and Michigan Street bridges and entered the west end of the graving dock at Bay Shipbuilding. The tug Bay Ship was there to assist the St. Mary's Cement. A large suction dredge is under construction in the east end of the dock.

Tied up all summer in one of the Bay Ship slips is the 150-foot John Purvis. Built in 1919 and named the Butterfield, with its black-hull and bright blue superstructure, had earlier been in a dry dock for inspection and repainting.

Carver Boats recently completed a boat show at the new resort conference center, Stone Harbor, featuring 8-10 gorgeous, gleaming white yachts.

Reported by: Paul A. Graf

Toledo Update

07/21:
As reported yesterday, the John W. Brown departed Toledo shortly after 9:00 a.m. under tow with the Gaelic tugs Susan Hoey on the bow and the William Hoey on the stern outbound for Lake Erie. As the Brown passed Toledo Shipyard she gave 3 long blasts on her steam whistle as a salute to the shipyard crews who did a great job on making her scheduled repairs in a timely manner.

At the CSX Coal Docks the Algolake was departing the dock at 8:00 a.m. The American Mariner was the next scheduled boat to load coal while the Jean Parisien was inbound headed for the CSX Dock and she will follow the Mariner when she is finished loading.

The next scheduled coal boat will be the American Republic today with an e.t.a. of 2:00 a.m. The next ore boat will be the Reserve also due today with an e.t.a. of 6:00 a.m.

The saltie Dobrush was loading grain at Anderson's "K" Elevator.

The Algowest was placed in drydock at Toledo Shipyard early Thursday morning before the Brown departed. The "G" tugs Illinois, and Montana assisted the Algowest. It is unknown why she is in drydock.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Weekly Toronto Report

07/21:
Tuesday 18th: USS Defender was still in port. Pytheas was at Redpath Sugar dock. Reconstruction continues on the tug Glenmont.

Monday 17th: Algowest was unloading at the salt dock, she departed later in the day. the U.S.S. Defender visited the port.

Sunday 16th: Canadian Ranger departed the harbor under her own power after a lengthy lay-up. She was towed into port on April 13th, from winter lay-up in Hamilton.

Saturday 15th: HMS Tecumseh was refloated at the Toronto Drydock and the 75-foot trawler yacht Kelana went on drydock for inspection and general repairs.

Friday 14th: Cuyahoga was at the stone dock and departed later in the day. Federal Maas departed with McKeil tug assistance.

Thursday 13th: Federal Maas arrived at Pier 51. Pytheas unloading at the Redpath Sugar dock.

Reported by: Gerry O.

The Shipbreakers

07/21:
The August 2000 issue of Atlantic Monthly has a fascinating cover article entitled "The Shipbreakers". It describes the present day business of scraping ships in India. The economic, environmental and political aspects are explored in great detail. Many Great Lakes ships made their last trip to overseas shipbreakers in the 1980's.

Reported by: Andy LaBorde

Today in Great Lakes History - July 21

The JAMES DAVIDSON and KINSMAN INDEPENDENT (1) arrived under tow at Santander, Spain on July 21, 1974 for scrapping.

On July 21, 1975, the GEORGE D. GOBLE arrived at Lorain, Ohio with an unusual deck cargo loaded at American Ship Building Company's yard at South Chicago, Illinois. She was carrying the deckhouses for two Interlake Steamship Company thousand-foot self-unloaders being built at AmShip's Lorain yard. These vessels were completed as the JAMES R. BARKER and MESABI MINER.

On 21 July 1875, the schooner ELVA, which was built in Port Huron in 1861 for Capt. Sinclair, was sailing from Holland, Michigan for Milwaukee loaded with stove bolts. She capsized 12 miles from Milwaukee. Her crew took to the boats and made a landing in Kenosha and then rowed to Milwaukee. A tug was sent for the schooner and she was recovered.

One hundred years ago, on 21 July 1900, R. J. GORDON (wooden propeller passenger-package freighter, 104', 187 gt, built in 1881 at Marine City) was placed back in service carrying freight and passengers between Chicago and Grand Haven. She had burned in September 1899 at Chicago but was rebuilt during the winter.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

John W. Brown Update

07/20: 4:00 p.m. update
The John W. Brown passed upbound in the Detroit River at Grassy Island at 4:00 p.m. She expects to arrive in Windsor an hour early at about 5:00 p.m. The cruise ship Le Levant depart the dock in Windsor at 4:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m. Update
The John W. Brown departed her dock at Toledo today at 9:00 a.m. with the assistance of Gaelic Tugboat Company's tugs Susan Hoey and William Hoey. The passage outbound through the bridges was uneventful, except the vessel was slowed down as she passed Toledo World Industries dock as a crowd of about 50 people with cameras were lined along the dock to take photos of the historic vessel.

The pilot, Phil Knetchel of Grosse Ile, Michigan has asked to use the Livingston Channel upbound enroute to Windsor, where she will arrive about 6:00 p.m. with the assistance of the Gaelic Tugs Carolyn Hoey and Patricia Hoey.

Original Report
The John W. Brown is expected to depart Toledo at 9:00 a.m. this morning. The Gaelic Tugboat Company of Detroit has donated tug services to the Brown. The tugs Susan Hoey and William Hoey will assist the Brown from Toledo.

The Brown is scheduled to arrive in Windsor at 6:00 p.m., a cruise ship will keep the Brown from arriving earlier. Gaelic tugs based in Detroit will assist the Brown into Windsor.

Check back for updates.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Algowood Update

07/20:
The Algowood is undergoing a survey this week at Port Weller Dry Docks. The repairs may require 100 workers for three months to repair the vessel.

Repairs are reported to include replacing 30-feet of damaged hull with a new 40-foot section that will increase the vessel's overall length to 740-feet, the new maximum length for the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Reported by: Wayne Garrett

Middletown Arrives

07/20:
The Middletown made her first trip of the season into Escanaba yesterday. She unloaded a cargo of coal from Toledo at the Reiss dock #1.

Middletown Arrives
Unloading

Reported by: Sandy and Eric Chapman

Twin Ports Report

07/20:
Algocape was a welcome site in the Twin Ports this week. The straightdecker was loading grain at the Cenex Harvest States elevator in Superior. Although delayed somewhat by rainy weather on Tuesday, on July 19 all the hatches were off and loading had resumed under clear skies.

Two unusual callers scheduled for the DMIR ore dock in Two Harbors are Charles M. Beeghly on the 20th and Indiana Harbor on the 21. The Indiana Harbor has been a regular in Duluth this season but it rarely calls in Two Harbors. On the other hand, the DMIR dock in Duluth is seeing several USS GLF boats this week. Arthur M. Anderson unloaded stone July 18 and then loaded taconite pellets, Cason J. Callaway is due there July 21 to unload stone from Calcite and Edwin H. Gott is due there to load pellets on July 24. John G. Munson is due to make on of its periodic visits to Ontonagon early on July 21.

Reported by: Al Miller

Tug Sold

07/20:
The tug Susan Belle has been between owners in storage at the Gaelic Tugboat Company yard in Detroit for about two months. The 45 foot vessel was recently purchased by Minnesota Aggregates in Duluth. The delivery trip from Detroit to Duluth was decided upon by truck, and Gaelic's yard crew removed the cabins and loaded the hull on a lowboy truck for the new owners. The Susan Belle was built in 1953 as the Fred S. Eberle, and operated for many years for the Dunbar and Sullivan Dredging Company.

Image of the hull on the truck

Reported by: William Hoey

Coast Guard Rescue

07/20:
The U.S. Coast Guard Station Marblehead received a report of a jet ski overdue with two persons onboard on July 18. The jet ski departed in late afternoon for a trip reportedly in Sandusky Bay on Lake Erie. A Coast Guard rescue boat searched Sandusky Bay but did not find the jet ski. A U.S. Coast Guard helicopter from Air Station Detroit was requested and at 6:48 a.m. found the jet ski outside of Sandusky Bay, approximately four nautical miles north/northwest of the Huron River.

The search effort was re-oriented around the jet ski position and at 9:47 a.m. the two men were found approximately two nautical miles east of the jet ski position by Station Marblehead's rescue boat. They were transported by helicopter to Magruder Hospital in Port Clinton, where they were treated for hypothermia and released after spending 15 hours in the water. They had lost sight of land, became disoriented, and ran out of gas Monday afternoon.

Monthly Tonnage Report Cleveland Harbor

07/20:
The Lake Carriers' Association home page has been updated with the June tonnage reports for the Cuyahoga River.

Today in Great Lakes History - July 20

CANADOC (2) suffered severe bow damage on July 20, 1963 in a collision with the Swiss-flagged freighter BARILOCHE in dense fog off Ile de Orleans, near Quebec City.

The LEON FALK, JR. was christened at Cleveland, July 20, 1961 after one trip to Duluth, MN for ore.

HORACE JOHNSON was launched July 20, 1929 for the Pittsburgh Steamship Co., Cleveland, OH.

SHELTER BAY (2) was launched July 20, 1907 as a) JAY C. MORSE.

At the end of June, 1877, the ferry MYRTLE began running between Port Huron and Sarnia. However, on 20 July 1877, the Port Huron Time reported that "The ferry MYRTLE has been taken off the route on account of the extreme dullness of the times."

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

Lawsuit Filed in Linda E. Sinking

07/19:
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that family members of one of the crewmen who was lost on the Linda E. have filed a lawsuit against BP Amoco and the estate of the Linda E.'s owner, Leif Weborg. The lawsuit alleges that the barge Great Lakes and tug Michigan collided with the Linda E. killing all three men aboard. The tug and barge are operated by Coastwise Trading Co., a subsidiary of BP Amoco. The suit blames both operators for the alleged accident.

In June a team from the University of Michigan investigated the site of the Linda E. wreck using a remotely operated submarine equipped with lights and cameras. The investigation showed extensive damage to the right side of the fishing tug within 10 feet of the stern. The videotape showed fractures and dents in the steel superstructure, a broken window and a hole in the decking. The submarine also took paint samples from the Linda E as she rest on the bottom. The vessel is buried in mud up to the water line which would hide other damage from view.

Reported by: Scott Best

Marinette Marine Launches Navy Barge

07/19:
Over the weekend Marinette Marine launched the second Navy housing barge, it will eventually go to San Diego for use by the Navy. The barge that was launched last summer should be ready for delivery to the Navy this Fall.

In other port news, Ryba Marine Construction has finished dredging the Menominee River.

Reported by: Scott Best

Toledo Update

07/19:
Tuesday the saltie Vamand Wave was loading grain at the ADM/Countrymark Elevator. The tug/barge combo Atlantic Hickory/Sarah Spencer was unloading fertilizer at Andersons "K" Elevator. The Atlantic Erie was still at the T.W.I. Dock loading coke breeze.

The John G. Munson was loading coal at the CSX Docks. The USCGC Neah Bay, and the Liberty Ship John W. Brown were at the Port Authority Dock. The tug Donald C. Hannah with her barge was loading cargo at the B-P Oil Company Docks.

The next scheduled coal boats are the Calcite II with an e.t.a. of 8:00 p.m. Tuesday evening. On Wednesday the Algolake is expected with an e.t.a. of 6:00 p.m. and the American Mariner 9:00 p.m.

The next scheduled ore boat will be the Armco due in on Wednesday with an e.t.a. of 6:30 a.m.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

USS Updates

07/19:
The John G. Munson was loading for Ontonagon, Mich. Calcite II will be bound for Menominee, Mich.

Reported by: Al Miller

Lorain Report

07/19:
Sunday morning the Mesabi Miner arrived in Lorain, Ohio to discharge cargo at the Lorain Pellet Terminal.

About 3:00 p.m. the Canadian Transfer went up the river and slowly past the Miner. The Transfer came back out on to Lake Erie around 10:00 p.m. The Miner depart at the same time. Sunday night the American Republic came to the terminal from Cleveland.

Reported by: Chris Wilson

Training on Local Excursion Ships

07/19:
In the aftermath of the terrible tragedy at Tobermory Ontario, extensive training for excursion vessel crewmembers remains number one for all of the vessels sailing among the Thousand Islands.

Crewmembers aboard the Gananoque Boat Line fleet have been drilling diligently this past week to meet any on board emergency i.e. fire, heart attack, evacuation and person overboard. The new Water Immersion Lifesaving Float designed by Ian Campbell has been a success during drills as it simulates an actual person floating to be recovered. This device partially fills with water to enable rescuers to appreciate the actual weight of an immersed, unconscious victim.

Reported by: Brian Johnson

Today in Great Lakes History - July 19

EDWIN H. GOTT was float launched July 19, 1978.

CLARENCE B. RANDALL (1) sailed on her maiden voyage July 19, 1943 from Ashtabula light bound for Two Harbors, MN.

CANADOC (2) was christened on July 19, 1961.

The registry of the GORDON C. LEITCH (1) was closed on July 19, 1985 as “sold foreign.”

JOHN P. REISS in tandem tow with the carferry CITY OF SAGINAW 31 arrived at Castellon, Spain prior to July 19, 1973 for scrapping.

JOSEPH S. YOUNG (1) was christened at Buffalo, NY on July 19, 1957. The JOSEPH S. YOUNG (1) was the first of seven T2 tanker conversions for Great Lakes service.

On 19 July 1831, the wooden schooner HENRY CLAY was carrying 800 barrels of salt and passengers from Oswego to the Welland Canal on her maiden voyage when she capsized in a squall and sank about 10 miles off Port Dalhousie on Lake Ontario. About 11 persons were aboard and at least 6 of them lost their lives. Three were saved by the steamer CANADA.

One hundred years ago, on 19 July 1900, the name of the Toledo tug A. ANDREWS, JR. was changed to PALLISTER.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

John W. Brown on the Move

07/18:
The John W. Brown departed the drydock at Toledo Shiprepair Monday afternoon. The Gaelic Tugboat Company tugs Susan Hoey and William Hoey took the Brown up the Maumee River as a dead ship tow. The John W. Brown will be open for tours in Toledo today and tomorrow from 10-5 pm. The ship will be docked near the Port Authority offices in downtown Toledo. She is scheduled to depart Toledo on Thursday for Windsor. (see story below)

Reported by: Jim Hoffman and William Hoey.

McKee Sons Update

07/18:
At the Government Dock in Sarnia work continues on the tug Invincible and barge McKee Sons.
Below are recent pictures of the pair.

McKee Sons at dock.
Tug Invincible from the McKee Sons.
Stern view of the pair.
Long view showing the Government Dock.


Report and pictures by: Matt Miner

John B. Aird Towed

07/18:
The John B Aird arrived at Ojibway Salt Dock in Windsor on Friday night to load. She was still at the dock early Tuesday morning, undergoing repairs. The tugs Stormont and Annie M. Dean are scheduled to tow the Aird up the Detroit River to the Lafarge dock just above the Sterling Fuel Dock. The short tow began about 1:00 a.m. this morning. The Aird must clear the salt dock for another Algoma ship to load.

The Aird at dock on Saturday N. Schultheiss

Reported by: Mike Nicholls

Desgagnes in the Soo

07/18:
Yesterday the Catherine Desgagnes remained at the Roberta Bondar Dock in Soo, Canada. She was towed there last week with the assistance of the tug Scott Purvis.

The Desgagnes' rudder post was removed over the weekend and returned Monday evening when it was reinstalled. It is unknown when the vessel will get underway.

She can be viewed to the left of the picture on the webcam at www.adin.org/webcam

Toledo Update

07/18:
On Monday the Atlantic Erie arrived at the T.W.I. Dock to load coke breeze which is a fine grained type of coal similar to sand. The saltie Mini Cibi was also at the T.W.I. Dock unloading cargo.

The Middletown was at the Coal dock loading a coal cargo. The next coal boats scheduled to arrive will be the Calcite II e.t.a. of 12:15 p.m. today and the John G. Munson with an e.t.a. of 4:00 p.m. The next ore boat due in will be the Reserve with an e.t.a. of 5:00 a.m. on Wednesday.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

GPS Saves Kayaker's Life

07/18:
Late Saturday afternoon, the U.S. Coast Guard Station Charlevoix received a call reporting that a 16-foot kayak was found south of Elk Rapids, MI. Station Charlevoix diverted their 41-foot rescue boat to search for a possible missing kayaker. Items found on board the kayak were a GPS, watch and water bottle.

Using the recovered GPS, Station Charlevoix's boat crew was able to determine the kayak's last position before it had been recovered by a good samaritan. Using this waypoint, Station Charlevoix began a trackline search opposite the predominate drift and found the missing kayaker wearing his life jacket and clinging to his paddle. The 41-year old man was hypothermic and transported to Elk Rapids, MI. for treatment. The man was later released.

Lake Erie Coal Increases Lead To 1.5 Million Tons

07/18:
Coal loadings at Lake Erie ports continued their brisk pace in June, totaling 2.8 million tons, an increase of 18.2 percent compared to the corresponding period last year. For the season, the Lake Erie coal trade is nearly 1.5 million tons ahead of last year's pace. The trade has benefited from a very early start - March 3. Also, Lake Erie has begun its seasonal rise, and water levels, while still below long-term average, are actually a bit higher than a year ago.

Reported by: Lake Carriers' Association

U.S.-Flag Carriage Down Again in June

07/18:
While certainly not a June swoon, U.S.-Flag carriage on the Great Lakes again fell short of the level of a year ago. The major U.S.-Flag Lakes lines carried 12.5 million net tons of dry-bulk cargo in June, a decrease of 3.2 percent compared to the corresponding period last year. Since the resumption of the dry-bulk trades on February 7, U.S.-Flag carriage stands at 39.8 million tons, a decrease of 2.6 percent.

Iron ore cargoes for the steel industry were down just slightly in June, and for the season are essentially unchanged. There was a slight increase in stone cargoes and that small upturn brought the 2000 season-to-date total in line with 1999's end-of-June tally.

The seemingly large drop off in western coal cargoes merely reflects that June 1999 was a near record month.

Reported by: Lake Carriers' Association

Today in Great Lakes History - July 18

The AGAWA CANYON struck an abutment at Welland Canal’s Bridge 11 at Allanburg, Ont. on July 18, 1977 while downbound with salt for Kingston, Ont. and sustained a thirty foot gash just above the waterline at the port bow.

The Canal Tanker COMET entered service on July 18, 1913 for ocean service.

The WILLIAM J. FILBERT was in collision with the KINSMAN INDEPENDENT (1) at the Burlington Northern Dock on July 18, 1970 when the Steel Trust steamer lost control in the current entering the slip.

The entire forward superstructure of the JOHN DYKSTRA (2) (BENSON FORD 1), including the forecastle deck, was delivered to South Bass Island in Lake Erie on July 18, 1986 on the barge THOR 101 towed by the tug GREGORY J. BUSCH. The superstructure was moved for use as a summer home where it remains. The hull of the DYKSTRA (2) was sold to Marine Salvage, Port Colborne, Ont. and was towed from Cleveland July 10th by the tugs ARGUE MARTIN and GLENBROOK to Ramey's Bend arriving there on July 12, 1986 where she was scrapped.

WILLIAM A. REISS (2) was launched July 18, 1925 as a) JOHN A. TOPPING.

WILLIAM G. MATHER (2) completed her sea trials on July 18, 1925.

On 18 July 1858, ANDROMEDA (2-mast wooden schooner, 112', 568 t, built in 1848n at Madison Dock, Ohio) was carrying 800 barrels of salt from Oswego to Chicago. She sprang a leak suddenly and foundered 20 miles from Sheboygan, Wisconsin. The crew escaped in her boat, many just in their underwear. They arrived at Manitowoc the next day.

On 18 July 1872, the schooner D. L. COUCH of Detroit (formerly AVCORN) sank about 10 miles from Long Point on Lake Erie. Two lives were lost.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

Deeper Draft for Seaway?

07/17:
During the 2000 navigation season, the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation and the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation plan to carry out testing under controlled conditions in the Seaway waters to establish the feasibility of increasing the draft to 26’06" (80.8dm) with the existing water levels and alert limits.

In the Welland Canal selected ships will be asked to transit the Welland Canal at the increased draft to evaluate their capability to enter and exit locks, the effect on lockage times and overall transit time and the ship reaction in meeting other ships. Their transits will be monitored as by ship inspectors on board to observe and record the ship reactions during its trip and sufficient water levels will be maintained throughout the ship’s transit.

In the Montreal to Lake Ontario section of the Seaway testing will involve the measurement of the ship’s squat while underway in different portions of the Seaway. On-the-fly DGPS technology will be used for the measurements. Transport Canada, the Seaway users and the two Seaway entities sponsor this project and Transport Development Corporation manages the contract.

Testing will be carried on selected ships loaded to a draft 26’3" requiring no special transit precautions.

The results of the tests will be compared to previous squat studies. The results can then be analyzed and applied throughout the System.

New Ship

07/17:
The Muskoka Lakes Steamship and Historical Society is planning to build a new vessel. A period ship has been designed, but powered by a diesel engine.

The new vessel will supplement the 1887 built Royal Mail Ship Segwun which will continue to run sightseeing cruises on the shorelines of the Muskoka Lakes.

The new vessel will be named the Wenoneh II, carrying 200 passengers vs. the R.M.S. Segwun's 99 passengers and will have all the modern amenities.

The group is hopeful that the new vessel will be operational August 2001. The total cost of the new vessel will be $5MM, Cdn. $1.6MM will be provided by the Federal & Provincial Government and the rest by mortgage and private donation.

Reported by: Scott Misener

1st Annual Gathering

07/17:
This week in the Original Photo Gallery we feature photographs from the 1st Annual Boatnerd Gathering held at the Soo Locks.

Click here to view

Wages from The Good Old Days

07/17:
July of 1941
The Independent Carferry Workers of the Great Lakes, representing unlicensed workers of the Pere Marquette and Ann Arbor Railroads, ratified a new contract giving them pay raises ranging from 7 to 32% retroactive to June 15.

Breakdown as follows:
Wheelsman, watchmen and lookouts: $4.76/day.
Deckhands, carhandlers, and patrolmen: $3.82/day
Oilers, water tenders, firemen and handymen: $4.69/day.
Coalpassers and wipers: $3.75/day.
Stewards: $6.92/day.
First cook: $6.51/day. Second cook: $4.32/day.
Waiters, porters and stewardesses: $3.40/day.
Second porters, second waiters, third porters and pantrymen: $3.20/day.
The pay increases include board and lodging and two and a half days liberty time per month.

Reported by: Max Hanley

Today in Great Lakes History - July 17

The ASHCROFT was towed out of Quebec City on July 17, 1969 in tandem with the steamer SIR THOMAS SHAUGHNESSY by the Polish tug JANTAR for scrapping at Castellon, Spain.

The BROOKDALE (2) lost her self-unloading boom overboard in the Detroit River during a wind and rain storm on July 17, 1980 while loading salt at the Canadian Rock Salt Dock at Ojibway, Ont.

The COMET was towed from Toledo to Ashtabula, OH on July 17, 1973 where she was broken up during the summer and fall of 1973.

WILLIAM J. FILBERT was launched in 1907.

On her last trip the COLONEL JAMES PICKANDS arrived at Cleveland on July 17, 1974 with a load of iron ore.

GOLDEN HIND loaded her first dry bulk cargo on July 17, 1954.

On 17 July 1856, TINTO (wooden propeller, 135', built in 1855-56 at Sorel, Quebec) caught fire and burned to a total loss only 2 miles from shore. She was between Snake Island and Nine Mile Point on Lake Ontario. 18 lives were lost. The survivors jumped into the water and were picked up by a boat from shore. A newspaper article stated that she had no lifeboat aboard. Her machinery was later recovered and installed in the AVON.

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

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

Algowood Arrives for Repairs

07/16:
The Algowood arrived at Port Weller Dry Docks yesterday shortly before noon. The tow departed Bruce Mines, ONT. on July 10.

The vessel will undergo an estimated $5 million repair job to damage suffered on June 2 when the vessel encountered structural problems while loading stone at Bruce Mines, Ontario. Repairs are reported to include replacing 30-feet of damaged hull with a new 40-foot section that will increase the vessel's overall length to 740-feet, the new maximum length for the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Please e-mail any pictures of the tow.

Reported by: John Stark

Kingfisher in Erie

07/16:
The USS Kingfisher, a 188-foot U.S. Navy minesweeper visited Erie Saturday on her tour of the Great Lakes. The vessel put on a show of how she swept for mines from 10:00 am to noon on Saturday and will be open for tours Today.

The Kingfisher at dock.

Reported by: Jeff Thoreson

Port Stanley Harbor to be Dredged

07/16:
Local news, the Free Press, reports that dredging of Port Stanley's harbor will begin as soon as possible. The Lake Erie port has suffered from silting that has drastically reduced the depth of the harbor. With out dredging shipping from the port could stop all together.

Gar Knutson (L -- Elgin-Middlesex-London) said in a release Transport Canada will do the $2.9-million (C) work on an "exceptional basis." Ottawa normally does only essential work on ports to be divested, but made an exception because of the commercial impact on the port, it said.

City officials have said wheat and other crops will have to be trucked from the port if the harbor isn't dredged. In addition to grain the port faces losing fertilizer quonsets and the Lakes Terminals and Warehousing which handle salt and coal.

Today in Great Lakes History - July 16

DETROIT EDISON (2) departed Quebec City July 16th 1986, along with former fleetmate SHARON, in tow of the U.S. tug PRUDENT to Brownsville, Tex. for scrapping.

The SAGINAW BAY departed Quebec City on July 16, 1985 in tandem with the E.B. BARBER towed by the Polish tug KORAL for scrapping at Vigo, Spain.

The NORTHERN VENTURE entered Great Lakes service July 16, 1961 upbound light for the Canadian lakehead to load grain.

On July 16, 1935 the BRUCE HUDSON capsized on Lake Ontario off Cobourg, Ont. while in tow of the wooden-hulled tug MUSCALLONGE.

Keel laying of the CHI-CHEEMAUN was on July 16, 1973.

CATARACT (wooden propeller, 150', 352 t, built in 1852 at Buffalo) caught fire on 16 July 1861, 5 miles off Erie, Pennsylvania. She became an inferno astern in just a few minutes and this prevented her boats from being launched. Four died. Some were saved by clinging to floating wreckage and some others were rescued by a small fishing boat. The schooner ST. PAUL picked up some survivors, Among those picked up by Captain Mosher of the ST. PAUL, were Captain McNally and the CATARACT's carpenter. Capt. Mosher had rescued these same two men in 1858 when the propeller INDIANA was lost in Lake Superior.

On 16 July 1873, the new barge MINNEAPOLIS was towed to Detroit for outfitting. She had just been launched four days earlier at Marine City. While on the way to Detroit, a Canadian man named Sinclair fell overboard and drowned.

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 include many other vessels with a much more detailed history

Algowood Update

07/15:
The Algowood tow was reported to be secured at Warf 2, the Sand Dock in the Welland Canal early this morning. The tugs Progress, Seahound and Vac took over the tow from the McKeil tugs at Thorold. The tow is expected to arrive later today at Port Weller Dry Docks.

The vessel will undergo an estimated $5 million repair job to damage suffered on June 2 when the vessel encountered structural problems while loading stone at Bruce Mines, Ontario. Repairs are reported to include replacing 30-feet of damaged hull with a new 40-foot section that will increase the vessel's overall length to 740-feet, the new maximum length for the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Check back for updates. Please e-mail with updates or pictures.

Reported by: Skip Gillham, Peter Zurren and John Stark

Desgagnes in for Repairs

07/15:
The Catherine Desgagnes was brought to the Roberta Bondar Dock in Soo, Canada with the assistance of the tug Scott Purvis. Repairs appear to be in the vicinity of the rudder stock, various equipment including a crane can be seen working at the rudder. She can be viewed on the webcam at www.adin.org/webcam

Twin Ports Report

07/15:
Friday morning was busy in the Twin Ports, especially for the grain trade. Federal Fraser was loading at Cenex Harvest States, Lake Charles was at AGP and Iryda was at Peavey Connors Point. Down the bay, George A. Stinson was loading at the BNSF ore dock. The most unusual site was Canadian Leader loading at the General Mills elevator in Duluth. ULS boats don't call there very often, and even the site of a straightdecker loading there has become uncommon.

Reported by: Al Miller

Port Huron to Mackinaw Race

07/15:
The 76th annual sailboat race to Mackinac Island begins this morning at 11:30 a.m. from a starting line 4 miles north of the Blue Water Bridges. The first of the 269 sailboats are expect to finish the race on Sunday evening or early Monday.

Change in Delivery Schedules Affect SMET Loadings

07/15:
Loadings of low-sulfur coal at Superior Midwest Energy Terminal in June totaled 1.6 million tons, a decrease of roughly 20 percent compared to last June. However, the decrease is nowhere near as significant as it seems. First, June 1999 was the second-best month the facility has ever had. Second, a major customer has changed the schedule for some of its coal deliveries. These arrangements will distort the month-to-month comparisons this season.

For the season, shipments from SMET stand at 5.6 million net tons, a slight increase compared to the same point in the 1999 navigation season.

Reported by: Lake Carriers' Association

Detroit River Festival

07/15:
A "Detroit River Festival" is being held at the Harbor Hill Marina in Detroit, on July 21-23. This is the same marina where the Dossin Great Lakes Museum has held its Nautical Mart the last few years. There will be an Antique and Classic Boat Show, a Marine Mart of Artists, Craftsperson's and Memorabilia, Marine Wares and Services. The event is being sponsored by the Michigan Chapter-Antique & Classic Boat Society, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, the Great Lakes Maritime Institute, and Events Unlimited.

The schedule includes:
Friday
5:00 to 8:00 Reception for Media and Participants 6:30 to 7:30 Auction, proceeds to Dossin 5:00 to 8:00 Entertainment

Saturday
9:00 to 5:00 Antique and Classic Boat Show, Marine Mart and Exhibits. Also seminars and restoration demonstrations.
12:00 to 4:00 Shuttles to DYC/Dossin (?) /Sinbads/ Casino and entertainment
6:00 to 9:00 Outdoor Barbecue and entertainment

Reported by: Al Hart

Today in Great Lakes History - July 15

On July 15, 1961, the Walter A. Sterling (now Lee A. Tregurtha) entered service on the Great Lakes after conversion from a tanker. The next day, on July 16, 1961, the Pioneer Challenger (now Middletown) entered service.

The CHICAGO TRADER was launched (as THE HARVESTER) in 1911 by the American Ship Building Co., Lorain, OH.

In 1946 the NORISLE was launched for the Dominion & Owen Sound Transportation Co. Ltd.

In 1934 the Ann Arbor #4 collided with the steamer N.F. Leopol in a heavy fog.

On Saturday, 15 July 1871, an argument between Captain James Bradley and Mate John Reed started while the schooner ROBERT EMMETT was docked at Erie, Pennsylvania unloading iron ore. They were still shouting at each other as the ship sailed out of the harbor. In short order, the ship turned around and anchored in the harbor. At 3:00 AM the following morning, Reed rowed ashore, went directly to the police station and charged that Capt. Bradley had assaulted him with a knife. At dawn, as the police were on their way to question Capt. Bradley, they found him stepping ashore from the deck of a tug, fuming that Reed had stolen the ship's only small boat. Bradley and Reed were at each other again and the police arrested both men. Bradley then filed charges against Reed for mutiny, assault and theft of the ship's boat. The case went to court the very next day. Justice of the Peace Foster saw his courtroom packed with curious sailors and skippers. Reed and Bradley were both still fuming and after listening to just a little testimony, Foster found both men guilty, fined them both and ordered both to pay court costs. The matter didn't end there since Reed later had to get a court order to get his personal belongings off the EMMETT. There is no record of what the disagreement was that started this whole mess.

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

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

Algowood Update

07/14: 2: 00 p.m. update
A third tug is assisting the Algowood through the Welland Canal. At 2:00 p.m. the Algowood was in Lock 6. All three tugs are able to fit the lock in with the ship and the tow is making good progress.

7:00 a.m. update
The tugs towing the Algowood continue their voyage to Port Weller Dry Docks where they are expected to arrive some time today. The tow entered the Welland Canal early this moring. At 6:38 a.m. their positon was reported as Port Robinson.

The vessel will undergo an estimated $5 million repair job to damage suffered on June 2 when the vessel encountered structural problems while loading stone at Bruce Mines, Ontario. Repairs are reported to include replacing 30-feet of damaged hull with a new 40-foot section that will increase the vessel's overall length to 740-feet, the new maximum length for the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Check back for updates. Please e-mail with updates or pictures.

Golden Rivet

07/14:
In a