Great Lakes & Seaway Shipping News Archive

Windoc Update

08/31
The Windoc remains docked in the Welland Canal as plans are made for her future. Crews have removed much of the loose debris and twisted metal from what was the pilothouse that lay on her deck. A tarped structure is in place over the spot where her smokestack used to stand, no doubt to protect from water. An announcement is expected in the next few days regarding the ship's future.

Pictures by John Meyland
Docked in the Canal near Lock 7.
A shore side crane lifts the remains of the pilothouse.
Debris on shore.

Reported by: Jason Junge

Tall Ships on the St. Clair River

08/31
Eight tall ships will call the St. Clair River homeport this weekend as the ships work their way off the lakes. Five will dock in Port Huron and three in Algonac as they open to the public for tours.

The tall ships Pride of Baltimore II, Highlander Sea, Cape Rose, Larinda and Norfolk Rebel will be docked at Port Huron's Seaway Terminal today thought Monday. At least four of them will be open for free tours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

A parade of the ships begin at 5:00 p.m. Thursday as the ships passed from lower Lake Huron to the Seaway Terminal.

Pierius Magnus, Road to the Isles and St. Paul were scheduled to arrive in Algonac Thursday. Through Monday the three vessels will be docked at the Riverfront Park pier. The three will also be open for tours but require a ticket to board, tickets are $6.00 each and can be purchased at the Algonac-Clay Historical Museum. The ships will depart on Tuesday.

Images as the parade starts downbound
Pride of Baltimore II passes above the Blue Water Bridges.
Larinda.
Cape Rose.
Highlander Sea.

Freighters in the River
Federal Rhine.
McKee Sons.
Alioth.
Federal Shimanto.

Reported by: Clayton Sharrard

H. Lee White at Bay Ship

08/31
The H. Lee White anchored off the mouth of Sturgeon Bay at Sherwood Point Thursday to await the winds on the bay to calm. Shortly after noon the winds calmed enough for the White to enter the Ship Canal and enter Bay Ship's Berth #15.

The Bay Ship crews were fast to get to work on a unloading system problem as soon as the ship arrived. The extent of repair required was unknown, although shipyard and crew members said it will be a short turn around for the repairs to be completed.

At anchor off Sherwood Point.
Bay Ship crew loading repair equipment onto White.
Close up of boom end.
Stern view from across yard.

Reported by: Vic De Larwelle

Cliffs chief predicts more trouble for taconite industry

08/31
Describing the state of the taconite industry as “chaotic,” Cleveland-Cliffs chief John Brinzo told a Minnesota audience Wednesday that his company will cut more jobs and make further changes to remain competitive.

"I deeply regret what this means to the employees and families who are affected,'' Brinzo said during a speech in Eveleth. "We will do all we reasonably can to assist them, but we have no alternative to making these difficult decisions. Our choice is to make the type of changes that will allow our mines to be competitive or risk losing them completely because they will not be able to meet the needs of the customers they serve.''

Brinzo, Cliffs’ chairman and chief executive officer, did not announce any cutbacks or layoffs for North America’s largest iron ore producer. He also said low pellet inventories likely will keep mines producing during the coming months.

However, Brinzo said Cliffs' mines need to look at every possible means of reducing the cost of producing and delivering taconite pellets at low cost to North American blast furnaces. He asked for support from employees, suppliers, vendors, government and local communities.

Cliffs plans to remain a leader in the iron ore business and may buy out some of its steel partners or purchase other mines, Brinzo said. Cliffs is talking to LTV Steel Corp. about acquiring LTV Steel Mining Co. and wants to acquire Bethlehem Steel's 70.3 percent share of Hibbing Taconite.

Brinzo also said Cliffs remains committed to Minnesota’s Iron Range.

"As far as the mines in Minnesota, we don't have all the answers, but we're looking at alternative ways to make them more viable,'' Brinzo said. "These mines are important to the community, but they are also important to Cleveland-Cliffs. We are looking at every possible way to reduce the cost of producing iron ore pellets for all the reasons I mentioned earlier, and we're determined to reach our objective.''

Cleveland-Cliffs is North America's largest supplier of iron ore. In Northeastern Minnesota, Cliffs manages and is part owner of Hibbing Taconite Co. It also owns and manages Northshore Mining Co. in Babbitt and Silver Bay. In Michigan, the company manages and holds interest in the Tilden and Empire mines. It also manages Wabush mines in Newfoundland.

Reported by: Al Miller

Saginaw River News

08/31
Thursday was a very busy day on the Saginaw River. The Wolverine finished lightering at the Bay City Wirt Dock at 3:15 a.m. that morning. She departed for the Saginaw Wirt Dock at Crow Island to finish. The Wolverine was outbound from the 6th Street Turning Basin around 100 p.m. after completing her unload at the Wirt Saginaw Dock.

The Canadian Transfer arrived in the Saginaw River early Thursday morning with a load of stone for the Buena Vista Dock. She decided to tie up at the Bay City Wirt Dock around 350 a.m. due to her draft of 21-feet and the river water level at -6 inches. South winds have lowered the water in the Saginaw so the Transfer will remain at dock until the water returns.

Late Thursday night the Canadian Transfer was still at the dock waiting for water levels to come back up. She has been checking the level with the Coast Guard every half hour. The water has risen from a low of -6 inches to the last reading which was at chart datum.

The Tug Mark Hannah & her tanker barge were inbound passing the pump out island at 830 a.m. headed to the Dow Chemical Dock in Bangor Township.

The St. Clair made a rare visit to the Saginaw River as well Thursday morning. She was inbound with a load of coal for the Consumers Energy Plant in Essexville. The St. Clair was passing Lights 1 & 2 of the Entrance Channel at 745 a.m.

The Buffalo, who had arrived in the river with a load of stone for the Saginaw Rock Products Dock late Wednesday night, finished unloading and was outbound passing Cass Ave. in Bay City at 1000 a.m. Thursday.

Pictures by Todd Shorkey
St. Clair at upbound at the Saginaw River Front Range.
Docking at Consumers Energy.
St. Clair discharging coal.
Canadian Transfer at Bay City Wirt.
Another view.
Buffalo outbound at Bay Aggregates.
Approaching Liberty Bridge.
Passing the Canadian Transfer.
Wolverine downbound passing the Canadian Transfer.
Close up.
Stern View.

Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey

Detroit Traffic

08/31
Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Thursday.

Coral Trader (Liberia) downbound at Grassy Island.
Stern view.
Alioth (Liberia) anchored at Ojibway.
Stern view.
Tall ship Highlander Sea upbound at Fighting Island North Light headed to Port Huron.
Stern view.
Mantadoc upbound at Grassy Island.
Stern view.

Reported by: Mike Nicholls

Toledo Update

08/31
The Cuyahoga and Algoway were both upbound the Maumee River Thursday afternoon. Both vessels were encountering delays at the various railroad bridges in town. The Cuyahoga was bound for one of the elevators to load grain while the Algoway was bound for the Kuhlman Dock to unload cargo.

The Algomarine was at the CSX Docks loading coal. The dredge Buxton II with her related equipment and their tug Muskegon were dredging the ship channel in Maumee Bay by the CSX Coal Docks. The small hopper dredge Atchafalaya was dredging the ship channel around the Toledo Harbor Lighthouse area. The dredge Ellicott and related equipment with tug John Henry were tied up in the canal for the Edison Bayshore power plant just north of the Torco Docks.

The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock. The USCGC Neah Bay remains in drydock at the shipyard.

The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the McKee Sons, Canadian Century, American Republic, Kaye E. Barker, and John G. Munson all due in on Saturday. The next scheduled ore boat due in at the Torco Dock will be the Middletown early this morning.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Cleveland News

08/31
The Mississagi was unloading stone at Ontario #4 Thursday morning. The Salty Isa arrived that morning and was berthed at the Ceres docks. The FedNav ship which arrived Wednesday night was the Lake Erie. She was unloading steel in front of the Science center Thursday morning.

Mississagi unloading.
Bow view.
Close up of forward cabins.
Lake Erie unloading.
Shore side crane reaches into the hold.
Cargo is off loaded.

Reported by: Rex Cassidy

William A. Hoey, IV

08/31
William A. Hoey, IV. died on August 26, 2001, while on vacation in Florida. He was thirty-four.

He was born the second of three children on June 6, 1967, the son of William A. Hoey and Carolyn Brown Hoey.

He was educated in the Grosse Ile, Michigan, primary schools, and graduated in 1986 from Admiral Farragut Academy in Toms River, New Jersey where he served as Cadet Adjutant his senior year. He received his college education at the Maine Maritime Academy, graduating in 1990 with a degree in Marine Engineering and a Marine Engineer’s license for unlimited horsepower. While at Maine, he spent two summers as a cadet trainee on the 5,000 horse power Maritrans Corporation tug Independence.

Upon graduation, he joined the Gaelic Tugboat Company of Detroit, founded by his father, serving both on board the tugs and in the office. During that time, he qualified for a Great Lakes Master’s license. Upon his father’s retirement in January, 2000 he was named president of the company, becoming at the same time a principal shareholder.

As captain on Gaelic tugs, he won the International Freedom Festival tugboat race no less than seven times, apparently a record for a tug captain in that event.

Most recently, he served as dockmaster for the tall ships visiting Detroit as part of the “Detroit 300" celebration, determining berthing sites, and preparing docks with fendering, water supply, and other required services. His service earned a personal “thank you” from Edsel Ford II, chairman of Detroit 300.

He was a member of the International Shipmasters Association, Detroit Lodge number 7, and the Marine Historical Society of Detroit. He had an intense interest in and enjoyment of the maritime business. Family, friends, employees, shipmasters and the marine community will all remember his ambition and dedication.

A Memorial service will be held Friday, September 7, at 11:00 am at St. James Episcopal Church on East River Road, Grosse Ile, Michigan.

The family suggests donations in his memory to:
University of Michigan research program for Alcoholism.
In memory of Bill Hoey Jr.
University of Michigan Health System Office of Medical Development
301 East Liberty Suite 300
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104
Attention: Stephanie Peterson

Or

In memory of Bill Hoey Jr.
Dawn Farm Alcoholism Treatment
502 West Huron
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103

Reported by: William Hoey Sr.

Today in Great Lakes History - August 31

On August 31, 1977, the Walter J. McCarthy, Jr. (formerly Belle River) entered service, departing Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, for Superior.

In mid-August 1987 a peregrine falcon whom had disappeared from Regina, Saskatchewan two weeks earlier landed on the deck of a lake freighter on Lake Huron. The bird was captured and taken to a bird sanctuary in Vineland, Ontario. The vessel name is unknown.

In mid-August 1985, the Belgium saltie Federal Thames loaded 25,400 tons of low-concentrate chrome ore at Duluth's Hallett Dock and was bound for Sweden. This ore dates back to World War II when she was mined in Montana. Other shipments were to have been made later as well.

On 31 August 1906, CAVALIER (3-mast wooden schooner, 134'/268GT, built in 1867 at Quebec City as a bark) was carrying cedar lumber when she struck a reef off Chantry Island in Lake Huron and sank. Her crew was rescued by the Chantry Island Lightkeeper. She was bound from Tobermory for Sarnia, Ontario.

On 31 August 1869, the schooner W. G. Keith was launched at the Muir & Stewart yard in Port Huron, Michigan. She was named after her skipper/owner. Her dimensions were 126' x 26' x 8'6". She was built for the lake Michigan lumber trade.

On 31 August 1900, one hundred years ago, the efforts to free the newly launched steel steamer CAPTAIN THOMAS WILSON from the mud in the Black River at Port Huron, MI. Continued throughout the day. The launch had been watched by thousands the previous day and the vessel's stern stuck in the mud. On this date, the tugs BOYNTON and HAYNES tried to pull her free but were unable to do so. Finally 14 hydraulic jacks were used to lift the vessel and at 6:00 PM she was ready to be pulled by tugs. After a 15 inch hawser was broken in the first attempt, the tug PROTECTOR finally pulled the vessel free.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, James Neumiller, Jody L. Aho, 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

c. Columbus arrives in Toronto

08/30
The magnificent cruise ship c. Columbus arrived in Toronto Wednesday morning at 10:00 a.m. via the Eastern Gap. She docked just east of Redpath Sugar where the Fraser is nearly finished unloading her cargo of raw sugar.

The Columbus then departed on a seven night cruise that will take passenger through the Great Lakes ending in Chicago on September 5.

Reported by: Bill Blair

Agawa Canyon Unloads

08/30
The Agawa Canyon arrived in Alpena during the early morning hours on Wednesday to deliver a load of salt at the Alpena Oil Co. dock. It left around 7:30 a.m.

Lafarge was also busy on Wednesday. The Paul H. Townsend came into port early to load for Saginaw followed by the Fred R. White Jr. with a load of coal for Lafarge. The Fred R. White was expected to load at Stoneport after leaving Alpena. The tug Jacklyn M. and barge Integrity arrived in the evening to load while the Alpena waited at anchor until the Integrity left. The J.A.W Iglehart was in Detroit on Wednesday.

Reported by: Ben and Chanda Bruski

Duluth - Superior News

08/30
Algoma ships were numerous in the harbor Wednesday. The Algosoo loaded at SMET, followed by the Algobay. The Algocape continued its cement unload at St. Lawrence Cement in Duluth. Later in the evening the Algowest arrived to unload salt at Cutler-Magner Duluth. In order to make the dock at Cutler successfully, the Algowest made a very unique approach angling into the piers directly from the east instead of the usual head-on approach from the northeast. The vessel proceeded very slowly through the piers and into the harbor, and the difficult approach was probably made worse for the ship's crew when dozens of sailboats began passing outbound from the harbor through the canal before the Algowest's bow even passed underneath the lift bridge.

The sailboats were headed for the weekly Wednesday evening regatta held out on Lake Superior. The Algowest successfully eased through the swarm of boats and docked at Cutler. A few hours later they were unloading directly into Cutler's main salt storage building, through an opening in the roof.

For much of the day all of Duluth's grain loading berths were full, with the Federal Fuji loading for Spain at AGP, the Ira loading for Italy at Cargill, and the Canadian Miner loading for a Quebec transshipment port at General Mills A. At 3:00 p.m. the Miner backed out of its slip and turned around to line up with the Duluth Canal piers and depart. Due to heavy southerly winds, the assistance of a G-tug was required. A few hours later G-tugs also helped the Ivi depart Cenex-Harvest States in Superior. The once again passed twin sister Ira at Cargill in Duluth, this time on her way out of the harbor headed for Algeria.

Reported by: Eric Holst

Detroit Traffic

08/30
Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Wednesday evening.

Diamond Belle upbound in the Wyandotte Channel.
Capt Henry Tucker downbound at Grassy Island bound for the General Chemical Dock in Amherstburg.
Stern view.

Reported by: Mike Nicholls

Lorain Update

08/30
The Reserve departed the Lorain Pellet Terminal Wednesday morning about 9:00 a.m. The ship unloaded taconite pellets from Superior, WI. The American Republic has been working the shuttle run from Lorain to the LTV Steel mill on the Cuyahoga River. The Buckeye visited port on Tuesday with a load of pellets for the terminal.

Pictures by TZ
Reserve departs.
Close up passing the lighthouse.
Onto Lake Erie.

Reported by: Rex Cassidy

Cleveland Update

08/30
Wednesday evening the American Republic arrived at 6:00 p.m. A salty believed to be a Fednav ship arrived shortly after and tied up at the Lakefront Docks. At 9:30 p.m. the tug Dorothy Ann and barge Pathfinder were seen heading up the river.

Reported by: Rex Cassidy

Today in Great Lakes History - August 30

The CHARLES E. WILSON was christened August 30, 1973 at Bay Ship and completed her sea trials on September 6th.

On August 30, 1942, the A. H. Ferbert (2) ran aground in the St. Mary's River, just a day old. The vessel returned to the builder's yard in River Rouge, Michigan for repairs.

On August 30, 1988, the Willowglen made its first visit to Duluth-Superior under that name. She loaded grain at Harvest States in Superior, arriving early in the morning and departing in the early evening the same day. Her last visit to Duluth before this was in 1981 under the name Joseph X. Robert.

The H.G. DALTON entered service on August 30, 1903.

On August 30, 1985 the tug CAPTAIN IOANNIS S. departed Quebec city with MENIHEK LAKE and LEON FALK, JR. in tow, bound for Spain to be scrapped.

On 30 August 1873, CAMBRIDGE (3-mast, wooden schooner, 162'/445T, built in 1868 at Detroit, MI) was bound from Marquette, MI for Cleveland, OH with a load of iron ore. In rough seas, she was thrown onto the rocky shore near Marquette where she broke up. No lives were lost.

On 30 August 1900, one hundred years ago, thousands of people gathered at the Jenks Shipbuilding Company near the Grand Trunk Bridge on the Black River in Port Huron, MI to watch the launching of the large steel steamer CAPTAIN THOMAS WILSON. Superintendent Andrews gave the word and the blows were struck simultaneously at the bow and stern. Slowly the vessel started quivering slightly from deck to keel and then with a mighty rush, slid sideways into the river. Her stern stuck in the mud. Mrs. Thomas Wilson christened the ship.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, James Neumiller, Jody L. Aho, 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

Busy Day in Escanaba

08/29
It was a busy day in Escanaba Tuesday. The James R. Barker was loading taconite pellets at the ore facility and the Armco arrived a little later with a load of coal for C. Reiss Coal Co. The Mesabi Miner and Joseph H. Thompson were also scheduled for Tuesday.

Bow on shot of the Barker loading. Dick Lund
Looking back along the conveyor belt used to move the taconite pellets to the hopper that feeds the conveyor. Dick Lund
Business end of the conveyor. Dick Lund
One of the mountains of taconite pellets stored at the facility. Dick Lund
The Barker loading with the remains of the old ore dock in the foreground. Dick Lund
Close-up view of the Barker. Dick Lund
A view from across the bay. Dick Lund
A string of hopper cars at C. Reiss Coal Dock loaded with limestone ready for the next train out. Dick Lund
Armco arrives. Eric & Sandy Chapman
The Armco headed for the C. Reiss Coal Dock. Dick Lund
Passing the James R. Barker at the taconite loading facility. Dick Lund
The Armco at C. Reiss, wide view. Dick Lund
The Olive L. Moore in limbo at Escanaba taconite on conveyor in foreground. Dick Lund
Barker loading that evening. Eric & Sandy Chapman
Close up of loading rig. Eric & Sandy Chapman
A mink pops up to watch the action. Eric & Sandy Chapman
Work continues as the sun sets. Eric & Sandy Chapman

Reported by: Dick Lund and Eric & Sandy Chapman

Greek Sister-Vessels Meet In Port For First Time

08/29
Two world-traveling sisters, the Greek vessels Ivi and Ira, met Tuesday in the Port of Duluth-Superior for the first time in their 22 years of frequent (but separate) stops in the Lake Superior port.

The Ivi arrived around noon at Superior’s Cenex Harvest States grain facility for about 18,000 metric tons of corn destined for Algeria. The Ira arrived shortly after noon at Duluth’s Cargill facility for about 12,000 metric tons of spring wheat and 6,000 metric tons of durum wheat destined for Italy.

The two sister-vessels are owned by Commercial Trading & Discount Company, Ltd., Athens, Greece. The Ivi is operated by Castalia Shipping and Finance Corporation, and the Ira by Armonia Shipping and Finance Corporation, both of Monrovia, Liberia.

The 591-foot general cargo vessels were built in 1979 at the Hitachi Zosen-Osaka Works Shipyard, Sakai, Japan. Local agent for the vessels is Guthrie-Hubner, Inc.

The Ivi is commanded by Sarados N. Halaris, Monrovia, and the Ira is commanded by Antonios Tsonis, also of Monrovia. The Ivi’s crewmembers include 18 Filipinos, two Greeks and one Russian. The Ira’s crewmembers include18 Filipinos, two Greeks, one Estonian and one Russian.

The Ivi was scheduled to depart at about 6:00 p.m. today and the Ira is scheduled to leave the Port at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Friday.

Reported by: Lisa Marciniak - Duluth Seaway Port Authority

Outbound Cargo

08/29
Tuesday the tug Gregory J. Busch and barge were loading scrap metal in Holland at the Padnos dock. This is the first outbound cargo from Holland this year, and possibly for several years. The last time a vessel loaded in port may have been the Pere Marquette 41, from Padnos, in 1999.

Reported by: Bob Vande Vusse

Navy Ship

08/29
On Tuesday the Canadian navy frigate HMCS Kingston passed Brockville, Ont in the Seaway about 12:45 p.m.

Kingston passing.

Reported by: Peter Carter

Record Trip

08/29
Below are images of the Great Lakes Trader's record setting trip in to Holland, MI last week.

Great Lakes Trader before entering Channel.
Entering the channel.
Trader heading out onto Lake Macatawa.
Passing Kollen Park on Lake Macatawa.
Backed in to unload.
Ready to cast off lines.
Great Lakes Trader pulling away from Brewer's, one of the three record breaking pile to the left.

Reported by: Dale Rosema

Twin Ports Report

08/29
Arthur M. Anderson spent a long day loading taconite pellets under the gravity chutes at "east of six Missabe" on Tuesday. About 730 a.m. the boat was docked under the chutes with its bow pointing in toward the inner end of the slip. At 430 p.m., it was still under the chutes, but during the day it had turned around so its stern was pointing toward the inner end of the slip -- a maneuver that likely was done to aid in trimming the ship. Adding to the interesting line-up of ships, the John G. Munson steamed into port about 530 p.m., followed a short time later by the Joe Block. The Munson proceeded to the Reiss Inland dock to unload before moving to the DMIR ore dock. The Block went to the DMIR dock to take a partial load of pellets after starting at the DMIR dock in Two Harbors.

A number of ships were in port for grain Tuesday. Canadian Miner was at the General Mills S elevator in Superior, a terminal that's handled several Canadian vessels recently. Federal Shimanto was loading at Peavey, Ira was at Cargill, Federal Rhine was departing from AGP when it developed engine trouble and went to anchor, and Federal Fuji was expected to arrive late for AGP.

Elsewhere, Algocape was unloading at St. Lawrence Cement.

Reported by: Al Miller

Frantz in Holland

08/29
Below are images of the Joseph H. Frantz in Holland, Mi.

Frantz unloading at Brewer's in Holland.
Crew member climbs aboard.
A bike is load back aboard.
Harbor master and a crewmember in the engine room gang way door.

Reported by: Dale Rosema

Port Huron Traffic

08/29
Below are images of traffic passing on the St. Clair River at Port Huron, Mi.

Alaskan Rainbow downbound.
Coral Trader downbound below the Blue Water Bridges.
Joseph H. Frantz upbound.

Reported by: Clayton Sharrard

Detroit Traffic

08/29
Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Tuesday evening.

Capt Henry Jackman downbound just above Fighting Island North Light after departing Zug Island.
Stern view.
Reserve downbound off the Rouge River.
Stern view.
Lee A Tregurtha at the Rouge Steel Slip in Dearborn.
Stern view.
Barge Marysville and tug Patricia Hoey tied up at the old Rouge Coal Dock in the turning basin waiting to fuel the Tregurtha with the Cason J Callaway unloading at the Levy Dock.
Tug Dorothy Ann against the Conrail Bridge unloading in the Rouge River.
Buckeye upbound off the ADM Dock.
Stern view.
Diamond Belle downbound in the Ecorse Channel.
Stern view.

Reported by: Mike Nicholls

More Detroit Traffic

08/29
Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Tuesday morning.

Capt Henry Jackman unloading at National Steel on Zug Island .
Algolake downbound at Belle Isle.
Sailing vessel Pathfinder downbound.
Pathfinder crew busy on the stern.
Southdown Challenger downbound for Detroit.
A friendly wave from passengers on the Southdown Challenger.
Southdown Challenger eases to the dock at silos marked Medusa Cement.
Mooring lines are hauled a shore.
Tug Doug McKeil and barge Ocean Hauler upbound at Detroit.
Doug McKeil stern view.
The Rouge shortcut bridge lowers quickly after Kaye E Barker passes outbound for the Detroit River.
Kaye E Barker, now out of the Rouge shortcut turns upbound in the river.
Barge and divers work just above the Rouge shortcut.

Reported by: Pat Pavlat & Frank Bachnak

Toledo Update

08/29
The Canadian Century finished loading coal at the CSX Docks and departed Tuesday afternoon. The American Mariner and Sam Laud were due in later that night to load coal. The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the Algosteel and CSL Laurentien due in on Wednesday followed by the Algomarine on Thursday.

The USCGC Neah Bay remains in drydock at the Shipyard undergoing her survey/misc. repairs. The dredge Buxton II and related dredging equipment with their tug Muskegon are dredging the ship channel in Maumee Bay between the Torco Docks and the CSX Docks. The small hopper dredge Atchalafaya was dredging the ship channel several miles north of the Torco dock.

The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock.

The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Dock will now be the Middletown due in at 11:00 p.m. Thursday, followed by the Buckeye on Sunday morning.

Classic views of Toledo Shipping
George M. Carl photographed from the Hi-Level Bridge while she was tied up at the City Dock waiting for a berth at one of the grain elevators to load grain.

USCGC Mackinaw in the white hull color scheme outbound Maumee Bay bound for her next port of call.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Sandusky Update

08/29
The Algowood arrived on Monday to take on a load of coal for Hamilton, Ontario. Last week the Wolverine visited to load coal for Holland.

Algowood in Sandusky.
Canada goose looks on.
Wolverine waits its turn at the NS No. 3 dock as a bass boat heads into the Shelby Street ramp.

Reported by: Don Lee

Today in Great Lakes History - August 29

On August 29, 1942, the A.H. Ferbert (2) entered service.

On her maiden voyage August 29, 1979 the INDIANA HARBOR sailed for Two Harbors, MN to load iron ore pellets for Indiana Harbor, IN. In August, 1982 INDIANA HARBOR became the first U.S. flag laker to receive satellite communication.

On August 29, 1972 the lightship HURON was placed in an earth embankment at Port Huron's Pine Grove Park along the St. Clair River and was opened to visitors on July 13, 1974.

Canada Steamship Lines' ATLANTIC SUPERIOR returned from Europe on August 29, 1985 with a cargo of gypsum for Picton, Ontario.

On 29 August 1871, GEORGE M. ABEL (2-mast wooden schooner) broke up on a reef near Port Burwell, Ontario.

On 29 August 1858, CANADA (3-mast wooden bark, 199', 758 t) was carrying a half million board feet of lumber to Chicago in bad weather when she settled just north of downtown Chicago. The next day during a salvage attempt, she blew southward, struck a bar off the old waterworks, broke her back, then broke up. She had been built in Canada in 1846 as a sidewheeler and was seized by the U.S. in 1849 and rebuilt as a bark in 1852.

August 29, 1998 - The BADGER was designated a spur route on the Lake Michigan Circle Tour.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Max Hanley, James Neumiller, Jody L. Aho, 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

Theodore Too Upbound

08/28
The tug Theodore Too spent Monday passing upbound in the Detroit and St. Clair Rivers. Early morning the tug entered the Detroit River and by 7:40 p.m. was passing Port Huron. Theodore paused off the Sydney Smith Dock in Sarnia for pictures. The tug let the Canadian Leader go past and then proceeded up into Lake Huron.

The tugs departed Cleveland and is sailing for Chicago where it will dock August 31 - Sept. 3. After Chicago it will visit the Soo Sept. 8 - 9; Windsor Sept. 15 - 16 and Sandusky Sept. 22 - 23.

For more details on the Theodore Too's schedule while on the lakes visit www.theodoretugboat.com

Please send images or reports of Theodore Too sightings to moderator@boatnerd.net

Pictures by Pat Pavlat & Frank Bachnak
Upbound in the Detroit River.
Passing Grassy Island.
Stern view.

Reported by: Jamie Kerwin, William Jenuwine, Pat Pavlat, Frank Bachnak

Lake Erie Update

08/28
The Algoway and CSL Laurentien were in Conneaut Monday morning, the Laurentien loading coal for Nanticoke and the Algoway unloading stone. The Algoway unloaded her limestone in quite and unusual place, at the ore dock across from the stone dock. The Laurentien departed at 10:00 am and the Algoway at 11:00 am. The Atlantic Erie was due at 5:00 p.m. to load. The Richard Reiss entered Erie around 5:30 pm for the Parade St. Dock.

Conneaut schedule
Friday-2330 Canadian Navigator-load coal
Saturday-2330 Algosoo-load coal

Algoway unloading.
Backing out of port.
Another view.
Close up.
Departing.

Reported by: Jeff Thoreson

Wolverine Loads

08/28
On Saturday the Wolverine loaded 15,500 tons of stone at Port Inland, MI for Cleveland, Oh. The Load took about 11 hours. The Algowest loaded before the Wolverine and departed by noon, shortly her departure the Wolverine lifted anchor and docked.

Stern view at the dock.
Stone is loaded into the hold.
Deck view.
Looking down the boom.
Pilot house.
Chart table.
Anchor windlass.
Engine control room.
Engines.
Propellor shaft.
Generators.
Hydralic rams that move the rudder.
Co2 fire suppression tanks.
After the tour it is time for dinner.
Algowest loading.

Reported by: Scott Best

Mapleglen in Owen Sound

08/28
The Mapleglen arrived in Owen Sound Monday with a load of grain. She was at the Great Lakes Elevator unloading grain on the west side of the harbor.

Mapleglen unloading.
Another view.
Stack in CSL colors.
Smoke from the stack.

Reported by: Roger Cournoyer

Twin Ports Report

08/28
The DMIR ore docks are undergoing some interesting changes from the season's routine.

On Aug. 27, the Philip R. Clarke was observed making the rare move of unloading a partial cargo of stone directly onto the storage yard east of Dock 6 instead of unloading into the dock's hopper. The vessel was scheduled to load taconite pellets later in the day either in Duluth or Two Harbors.

Up in Two Harbors, several vessels are scheduled to make unusual calls at that dock. Oglebay Norton is due there Aug. 28; Joe Block - a common caller at the Duluth ore dock - is scheduled to load a partial cargo in Duluth and then complete loading in Two Harbors on Aug. 28; St. Clair is due Aug. 30; and Reserve is due Aug. 31. In recent seasons the Two Harbors dock has almost exclusively served vessels of USS Great Lakes Fleet, so this schedule change -- if it holds -- is a marked departure from the routine.

Duluth will see several GLF boats this week. Philip R. Clarke and Arthur M. Anderson were in town Aug. 27, and John G. Munson is scheduled to arrive Aug. 28 to unload at the Reiss Inland dock before moving to DMIR ore dock to load on the 29th.

Reported by: Al Miller

Detroit Traffic

08/28
Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Monday evening.

Yacht My Marzy (Cayman Islands) downbound at Grassy Island.
Sten view.
Barge Hannah 5101 and tug James A Hannah upbound at Grassy Island headed for the Marathon Fordson Island Dock in the Rouge River.
Close up of tug.
Stern view.

Reported by: Mike Nicholls

More Detroit Traffic

08/28
Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Monday morning.

St. Clair downbound in the haze at Belle Isle.
Tramper & Claudia at Nicholson Terminal.

Reported by: Pat Pavlat & Frank Bachnak

Toledo Update

08/28
Monday the USCGC Neah Bay remains in drydock at the ship yard. The dredge Buxton II with her equipment and tug Muskegon were dredging the ship channel in Maumee Bay between the CSX And Torco Docks. The small hopper dredge Atchalafaya was dredging the ship channel several miles north of the Torco Docks.

The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the Canadian Century, American Mariner, Sam Laud, and Algosteel on Tuesday, followed by the Lee A. Tregurtha and CSL Laurentien on Wednesday. The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Docks will be the Courtney Burton on Thursday evening, followed by the Buckeye on Sunday morning.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Buffalo News

08/28
Monday the Kinsman Independent was undergoing fit out and is expected to depart lay-up within a week or two.

The Gemini will be making the very rare trip all the way up the Buffalo River to the extreme limit of navigation late today. She is scheduled this evening for the Mobil Oil Elk St. Product Terminal.

The Herbert C. Jackson was due at ADM Standard elevator around 9:00 p.m. Monday. The English River is due to follow her in around 11:00 p.m. for Lafarge. Both are due to depart on Tuesday afternoon.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski

Today in Great Lakes History - August 28

EDWIN H. GOTT, 78, of Pittsburgh, died on August 28, 1986. The namesake of the 1,000 footer, he retired as Chief Executive Officer of U.S. Steel in 1973.

On August 28, 1962, the Edward L. Ryerson set a Great Lakes cargo record for iron ore. The Ryerson loaded 25,018 gross tons of iron ore in Superior, Wisconsin, breaking by 14 tons the record held by the Canadian bulk freighter Red Wing which was set in the 1961 season. The Ryerson held this record well into 1965.

The PERE MARQUETTE 22 was repowered with two 2,850 ihp four cylinder Skinner Uniflow steeple compound steam engines, 19 1/2", 43" dia. x 26" stroke, built in 1953 by the Skinner Engine Co., Erie, PA and four coal-fired Foster-Wheeler water tube boilers with a total heating surface of 25,032 sq. ft. built in 1953. The repowering work was completed on August 28, 1954. Her 1954 tonnage was 3551 GRT, 1925 NRT, 2450 dwt. A new starboard tail shaft was installed at this time. Her service speed increased to 18 knots (20.7 mph).

The JOHN ANDERSON was outbound through the Duluth Ship Canal on August 28, 1928, the ANDERSON struck the north pier suffering $18,000 in damage.

The REGENT entered service on August 28, 1934. She was built for low clearances on the New York State Barge Canal and was equipped with five cargo tanks and one dry cargo hold.

The WILLIAM A. REISS (2) was laid up for the last time on August 28, 1981 at Toledo, OH and remained idle there until July 15, 1994 when she was towed to be scrapped.

On 28 August 1870, CHASKA (wooden scow-schooner, 72'/50T, built in 1869 at Duluth originally as a scow-brig) was wrecked in a northwesterly storm near Duluth. Reportedly she's the first vessel built at Duluth.

On 28 August 1763, BEAVER, an armed wooden British sloop built the previous year, was carrying provisions to Detroit to relieve the fort there which was under siege by the Indians led by Pontiac. however the vessel foundered in a storm at Cat Fish Creek, 14 miles from the site of Buffalo. 185 barrels of her cargo were salvaged and went on to Detroit on the schooner GLADWIN.

Data from: Joe Barr, James Neumiller, Jody L. Aho, Al Miller, 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 Departs

08/27
The Saginaw departed from the Toledo Shipyard docks shortly before 8:00 a.m. Sunday morning. It was removed from the drydock at the on Saturday evening and was tied up at the old Interlake Iron Company Dock over night preparing to sail. The vessel entered the dry dock on August 8 for her 5-year survey and replacement of stern seals.

The hard working ship looks great with a fresh paint job.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

End of Lay-up

08/27
The American Mariner departed her lay-up berth at Toledo's Lakefront Docks about 2:45 p.m. Saturday afternoon. It is believed that she is going to Sandusky, Ohio to load a coal cargo for Essexville, Michigan.

Uncertainties over the future of U.S. steel makers put the American Mariner into temporary lay-up in mid May.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Duluth's July Tonnage Report

08/27
Another coal record helped bring year-to-date tonnage figures in the Port of Duluth-Superior ahead of last year, the Duluth Seaway Port Authority reported today.

All cargo through July totaled 16.9 million metric tons, five percent ahead of last year’s 16.1 million tons and two percent above the five-year average of 16.6 million tons.

Superior’s Midwest Energy Resources Co. set a Port record for coal loaded in a single month, two million metric tons, surpassing its previous record month, August 1999, by nearly 10 percent. Outbound coal handled through the facility has set annual Port records for seven consecutive years.

Strong Canadian coal shipments propelled total international trade to five million metric tons. This was a five percent increase from last year’s 4.8 million tons.

Total domestic trade of 11.9 million metric tons represented a five percent increase from 11.3 million tons last year. Domestic shipments of iron ore climbed from 4.8 million to 5.4 million tons, an increase partly attributable to this year’s higher lake levels and partly to the closure of an LTV Co. dock in Taconite Harbor, Minn.

Coal shipments through the Port continued as this season’s maritime commerce leader, equaling 44 percent of total waterborne commerce with 7.5 million tons through July.

Iron ore shipments of 6.7 million tons to U.S. and Canadian destinations ranked second with 39 percent of total commerce.

Shipments of bulk grain, the Port’s third leading cargo, contributed seven percent with 1.1 million tons. The Port’s three principal cargoes combined represented 90 percent of total commerce.

There were 467 vessels visiting the Port through July, a decrease of eight from last year. Making up 2001’s total were 294 U.S.-flag, 114 Canadian-flag and 59 overseas vessels.

Reported by: Duluth Seaway Port Authority

New Drummond Island ferry dedicated

08/27
The spacious new Drummond Islander IV, capable of handling 150 passengers and 32 vehicles, was dedicated by a host of state transportation officials, legislators and local residents in a ceremony last week in De Tour Village.

The new ferry boat is one of two which serves Drummond Island's 1,000 year-round residents, as well as the growing tourist population that visits the popular island on Michigan's Upper Peninsula's eastern tip.

"The 148-foot ferry boat will reduce waiting during busy times and is critical to residents of the island who must rely on the boats for transportation," said Phillip Kazmierski, deputy director, Urban and Public Transportation, Michigan Department of Transportation. "We are proud partners in this venture which combines a Federal Highway Administration Ferry Boat grant, MDOT funds, and a local match to construct the $2.8 million boat."

The number of passengers and vehicles traveling by ferry boat from De Tour Village to Drummond Island is steadily increasing. In 1997, 312,000 passenger rides were provided and 184,000 vehicles transported. In 2000, those numbers rose to 376,000 passenger rides and 217,000 vehicles. So far in 2001, 295,212 passengers and 175,835 vehicles have taken the ferry boats.

The vessel's design was by Tim Graul Marine in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. It was constructed by Basic Marine in Escanaba. Dock modifications to accommodate the Drummond Islander IV were funded by a combination of federal, state and local funds, for a total of $650,000. Dock design and engineering were done by Hitch, Inc. of Houghton, with construction by Ryba Marine Construction of Cheboygan.

The ferries are operated by the Eastern Upper Peninsula Transportation Authority which also provides service for Sugar and Neebish islands and bus transit service in Chippewa and Luce counties.

Reported by: Tom Hynes

St. Clair River

08/27
Below are images of ships on the St. Clair River Sunday evening

Munson at Shell Fuel.
Wide view with the Great Lakes Trader passing.
Oakglen upbound.
Close up of the bow.
Sun sets on the Griffon at the Government Dock.
LIMNOS at the Government Dock in Sarnia.

Reported by: T. Parker and J. Parker

Detroit Traffic and More

08/27
Below are images from a trip to Manitoulin Island Saturday
Rt Hon Paul J Martin loading at the Lafarge Dock in Meldrum Bay, ON on Mississagi Strait.
Agawa Canyon loading at the Ontario Trap Rock Dock in Bruce Mines, ON. This is the dock where the Algowood was damaged.
Trap Rock Dock.

tug Channel Bratt in Gore Bay, ON.
tug Bonnyville in Gore Bay, ON.

Museum Ship Norisle
Norisle at Manitowaning, ON.
Looking down the port side.
Car Deck.
Another view.
Norisle Engine.
Another view.
Looking down the engine.
From the other end.
Guages.
Chart of the route of the Norisle.
Observation Room.
Norisle Dining Room.
Vents.

Sault Ste. Marie
Katie Ann (former push boat Fort Yates) on the drydock at MCM Marine.
Research boat Cisco on the dock at MCM Marine.
Chicago Diver on the Dock at MCM Marine.

Detroit Traffic
Tramper (Netherlands) at Nicholson Terminal & Dock.
Stern view.
Claudia (Switzerland) at Nicholson's. This may be the first time this year that two salties have been at this dock at the same time.
Stern view.
Lake Champlain (Marshall Islands) at Morterm Dock in Windsor, ON.
Stern view.
CSL Tadoussac upbound at Fighting Island North Light.
Stern view.

Reported by: Mike Nicholls

Toledo Update

08/27
Sunday morning the John G. Munson was loading coal at the CSX Dock. The Armco was unloading ore at the Torco Dock. The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock. The dredge Buxton II with her related equipment and their tug Muskegon were dredging the ship channel in Maumee Bay between the Torco and CSX Docks. The small hopper dredge Atchalafaya was dredging the ship channel several miles north of the Torco Docks.

The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the CSL Niagara and Armco later on today followed by the Canadian Century on Monday evening. The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Dock will be the Courtney Burton on Thursday evening followed by the Buckeye on Sunday morning, Sept. 2.

Classic views of Toledo Shipping
Chicago Trader and Charles C. West in the C&O Docks frog pond area awaiting there fate.

Benson Ford (1) loading coal at the Lakefront #2 Coal dock.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Toronto Report

08/27
Salty Fraser arrived at Redpath Sugar Sunday with McKeil tug assistance. The tall ship Concordia was in town for a few days but was gone early Sunday morning. Cape May Light made a return trip to Toronto last week.

Reported by: Gerry O.

Special Cruise to the Soo

08/27
On October 15, the M.S ChiCheemaun will make her maiden voyage to Sault Saint Marie, On, Canada. The journey's duration to Sault Saint Marie will complete 12 hours (based on good weather and no delays)The Trip from port back to Owen Sound will be 48 hours. (2 days)

On the morning of October 15 all passengers will board in Owen Sound at 5:30 a.m. where motor coaches will transport them to Tobermory to catch the 7:00 a.m. departure north bound to Sault Saint Marie. The approximate arrival time will be 7:00 p.m.

During the excursion breakfast, lunch and dinner will be provided, buffet style.

Once in Sault Saint Marie passengers will have the option of attending their guide to the Sault Saint Marie Charity Casino or retiring to their hotel room for the evening.

On the morning of October 16 a buffet breakfast will be provided for the guests by the hotel and free time granted to passengers until 1:00 p.m. This will allow the attendees to experience Sault Saint Marie individually to pursue their interests. The hotel is conveniently located in the heart of their downtown core, within walking distance of a museum, art gallery and shopping centers.

At 1:00 p.m. motor coaches will be departing the Holiday Inn Soo for Owen Sound, On, Canada.

The fare for the Fall Cruise is $350.00, (CDN) this includes passage, the 3 meals on the 15th, hotel accommodations based on double occupancy, guided tours and all meals provided on the 16th.

For more information call 800-265-3163 or e-mail northland@bmts.com

Image of the ChiCheemaun

Great Laker Mailing

08/27
Copies of the Premier issue of Great Laker continue to be mailed. We had a problem with our second mailing that should have been sent in early August. I corrected the problem and finished the second mailing last week. The first issue should start to arrive in the next 1-3 weeks depending on your post office, sorry for any delay.

My thanks to everyone who subscribed, of the 10,000 printed we only have 300 copies of the "Premier Issue" left. If you would like a copy please visit www.greatlaker.com

Our Fall issue is about to head to the printer featuring more of what you love about the Great Lakes. A preview will be available on the web site in early September.

Help Wanted

08/27
Grand River Navigation is now accepting applications for the Relief Positions of 2nd & 3rd Assistant Engineer for the M/V Maumee and Calumet. Qualified candidates should contact Mr. Sam Bomyea at 440-930-2024 (employment inquires only.)

E-mail

08/27
I started having problems accessing my e-mail late Thursday night. The service returned but I could not access the news server. All problems appear to be corrected, sorry for any delay.

Weekly Updates

08/27
The weekly updates have been loaded. Click here for the latest information.

Today in Great Lakes History - August 27

The AGAWA CANYON was launched in 1971 at Collingwood Shipyards Ltd.

The SAMUEL RISLEY arrived at Toronto, Ont. on August 27, 1985 on her way to Thunder Bay, Ont. where she replaced the retired CCGC ALEXANDER HENRY.

ELMGLEN (2) was launched August 27, 1952 as a) JOHN O. McKELLAR (2) for the Colonial Steamship Co. Ltd. (Scott Misener, mgr.), Port Colborne, Ont.

The WILLIAM CLAY FORD (1) then renamed US.266029 departed her lay-up berth at the Rouge slip on August 20, 1986 in tow of Gaelic tugs and she was taken to Detroit Marine Terminals on the Rouge River, where her pilothouse was removed to be displayed at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Detroit's Belle Isle. The hull was moved to Nicholson's River Rouge dock on August 27th.

MERLE M. McCURDY was launched August 27, 1910 as a) WILLIAM B. DICKSON for the Pittsburgh Steamship Co., Cleveland, OH.

The U.S. Coast Guard Buoy Tender (WAGL-305) MESQUITE was commissioned on August 27, 1943 and served on the Pacific Ocean in the 7th Fleet in 1944 and 1945.

On August 27, 1940, the William A. Irvin set the Great Lakes record for the fastest unloading of an iron ore cargo using shore side equipment. The Irvin unloaded 13,856 gross tons of iron ore in 2 hours, 55 minutes (including the time to arrive and depart the dock!) in Conneaut, Ohio. This record still stands, and consequently the Irvin is one of the few Great Lakes vessels to be retired while still holding a Great Lakes cargo record.

On August 27, 1929, the Myron C. Taylor entered service.

On Aug. 25, 1923, the Duluth, Missabe & Northern ore dock in Duluth loaded 208,212 tons of ore into 23 ships.

On 27 August 1924, CITY QUEEN (wooden propeller steam tug, 71'/69GT, built in 1900 at Midland, Ontario) burned to a total loss ¼ mile east of the Manitou Dock in Georgian Bay.

The keel for the tug CRUSADER was laid on 27 August 1873 at the Leighton & Dunford yard in Port Huron. The tug's dimensions were 100' keel, 132' overall, and 23' beam. She was built for George E. Brockway.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, Al Miller, Jody L. Aho, 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

Repairs Completed

08/26
The Sam Laud departed Bay Ship Sturgeon Bay Friday evening followed by the Mesabi Miner early Saturday evening in rain and fog. The ships departed through the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal into Lake Michigan for their next ports of call.

Reported by: Vic DeLarwelle

Algoway Delivers Salt

08/26
The Algoway was in Alpena early Saturday morning unloading salt at the Alpena Oil Co. dock on the Thunder Bay River. This is the first of several loads of salt this year. The Algoway left before noon .

Reported by: Ben and Chanda Bruski

Thunder Bay Update

08/26
Algoma boats made up the vast majority of Vessels that visited the Port of Thunder Bay in the past few days. Making appearances were: Algocen, Algoville, Algowood, Algolake, Algomarine and Algonova. Algosteel is expected to visit sometime this week.

The Algocen finished up at Mission Terminal and departed late Friday night. After arriving late Thursday night and docking at Richardson Elevator, the Algoville moved over to United Grain Growers "A" house on Friday to finish her loading. By late night she had departed down the lake heading for Montreal.

The Algowood arrived early Friday morning and tied up at Thunder Bay Terminals to take on a load for Detroit. After loading more than 25,000 metric tons of coal, she headed out the South Entrance and down the lake. Next to arrive was the Algolake, arriving Friday evening and heading up the Mission River to Valley Camp where she unloaded her cargo. Saturday morning she moved over to Thunder Bay Terminals to load coal for Lambton. Around 8:30 p.m. she left downbound with more than 27,000 metric tons of cargo.

After the Algolake had departed, the Algomarine picked up her anchor which she dropped after arriving in Port Saturday morning. She proceeded into the vacated slip at Thunder Bay Terminals to load and was tied up at 9:30 p.m. The last Algoma boat to arrive Saturday was the Algonova, docking at Petro-Can in the Mission River late Afternoon.

Other boat traffic in the Harbor consisted of the Arizona Dream departing Mission Terminal at 2:00 p.m. on Friday. The Montrealais departing Cargill late Friday night. The Federal Yukon arrived early Friday Morning and went to anchor just outside the Main breakwall entrance. The tug Radium Yellowknife departed the port.

The tug Jane Ann IV and barge Sarah Spencer arrived for yet another visit to Thunder Bay. She pulled into Agricore Friday morning and later moved over to United Grain Growers "M" house in the afternoon. By late night Friday they were heading out onto the Lake.

The Sandra Mary remains docked at Keefer Terminals while her dredge John Holden continues to work on a dredging project near the Mission River.

Mapleglen at Sask 7 a.
Algoville at Richardson.
Arizona Dream at Richardson.
Cartierdoc Sask 7 a.
Doug McKeil General Chemicals.
Elm at Cargill.
Federal Agno at Sask 7 a.
Federal Yoshino at UGGm.
Algocen at Agricore.

Reported by: Rob Farrow

Saginaw River News

08/26
The David Z. Norton entered the Saginaw River Saturday morning passing the Saginaw River Rear Range Light at 9:00 a.m. She stopped at the Bay City Wirt dock to lighter before proceeding upriver to Saginaw to finish. The Norton was outbound from Saginaw giving a security call downbound at 11:30 p.m.

The Sam Laud was also in the Saginaw on Saturday, passing the Saginaw River Rear Range Light at 1:00 p.m. the Laud stopped at Bay Aggregates in Bay City to lighter before departing a 4:40 p.m. for Saginaw Rock to finish.

Pictures by Todd Shorkey
Sam Laud approaching Independence Bridge Upbound.
Stern View.

Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey

Toledo Update

08/26
The Saginaw still remains in dry dock for her survey, painting and misc. repairs. The Algosoo was scheduled to load coal at the CSX Docks at 3:00 p.m. The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX#1 Dock. The dredge Buxton II with her equipment and tug Muskegon were dredging the ship channel in Maumee Bay between the Torco and CSX Docks. The small hopper dredge Atchalafaya was dredging the ship channel several miles north of the Torco Dock.

The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the John G. Munson, CSL Niagara, and Armco on Sunday, followed by the Canadian Century on Monday evening. The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Dock will be the Armco on Sunday morning, followed by the Courtney Burton on Thursday evening.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Hamilton News

08/26
Saturday evening the excursion vessel Enterprise 2000 was leisurely cruising Hamilton Harbour. She is one of two excursion vessels owned by Galactica 001 Enterprises Ltd. of Toronto.

The Canadian Leader was unloading iron ore pellets at Dofasco. The Hamilton Energy was alongside refueling her. Over at Stelco's iron ore dock the CSL Laurentien was unloading as well.

At 2010 hours the CSL Laurentien passed through the Burlington Ship Canal for Lake Ontario exchanging whistle salutes with the bridge operator. A small pleasure motorboat entered the canal from Lake Ontario as the Laurentien was entering from the Harbor side, apparently intending to pass on the laker's port side. When the pleasure craft saw the size of the stern wake following behind the Laurentien, the pleasure boater did a 180 degree turn about 300 feet in front of the Laurentien's bow and charged back out into Lake Ontario and away from the piers. Fortunately, the motor on the small craft did not stall.

Reported by: Patricia Burgon

Today in Great Lakes History - August 26

The Edgar B. Speer's sea trials were successfully completed on August 26, 1980.

The BEECHGLEN was towed out of Owen Sound by the McKeil tug KAY COLE on August 26, 1994 en route to Port Maitland, Ont. for scrapping.

The MICHIPICOTEN (2) was launched August 26, 1905 as a) HENRY C. FRICK.

EMORY L. FORD (b RAYMOND H. REISS) entered service on August 26, 1916 to load iron ore at Marquette, MI.

SILVERDALE was launched August 26, 1925 as the straight decker a) GLENEAGLES

The CHIEF WAWATAM was launched on August 26, 1911. She was built with three large propellers, two in the stern for propulsion and one in the bow for icebreaking.

The passenger-cargo ship FEDERAL PALM was christened August 26, 1961. She was built on the Great Lakes, but never served their ports.

On August 26, 1934, while on a Sunday sightseeing cruise, MIDLAND CITY damaged her bottom on a shoal near Present Island. She settled with her stern under water and her bow high in the air.

On 26 August 1875, COMET (propeller passenger/package freight, 181'/744T, built in 1857 at Cleveland, OH) was carrying ore and pig iron in Lake Superior on a foggy night. While trying to pass the Beatty Line steamer MANITOBA, 7 miles SE of Whitefish Point, signals were misunderstood and COMET veered into the path of MANITOBA. COMET was rammed amidships and sank in ten minutes. 11 of the 21 aboard lost their lives. This wasn't the first such accident for COMET. In October 1869, she suffered a similar mishap with the propeller HUNTER and that time both vessels sank.

The schooner MATTHEW McNAIR was launched at the Lee & Lamoree shipyard in Oswego on 26 August 1857. Her dimensions were 103' keel, 24'6" beam and 9'6" depth.

August 26, 1911 - The CHIEF WAWATAM was launched by the Toledo Shipbuilding Company.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Max Hanley, 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

Theodore Too makes a surprise stop in Cleveland

08/25
Cleveland's Nautica complex on the West bank of the Cuyahoga is hosting an interesting assortment of ships this weekend. The sailing ships Grand Nellie and Red Witch are in town for viewing and lake cruises.

Buffalo's venerable fireboat Edwin M. Cotter is giving tours at the dock. The Cotter is 101 years old and in beautiful condition. A nice reflection on the work of Captain Mike Higgins and crew.

Theodore Too made a surprise visit to Cleveland as well. This beautiful 65 foot tug is on a Great Lakes tour this summer after cruising the East coast as far south as Florida over the past 16 months. Captain Bill Stewart, his wife Fran and first mate Bob Henneberry have brought Theodore from Halifax and will continue as far as Chicago this month. Other cities to be visited include the Soo, Windsor and Sandusky before exiting the lakes and returning to the East coast. Original plans were for Theodore to travel from Chicago down the Mississippi but bridge clearances have canceled those plans. Long range trips will include the Gulf coast and then possible transport by cargo ship through the Panama canal to the pacific coast. Theodore is docked at the Nautica complex and is available for free tours on Sunday from 10am-noon and 2pm to 6pm.

After departing Cleveland the Theodore Too's next stop will be Chicago August 31 - Sept. 3; The Soo Sept. 8 - 9; Windsor Sept. 15 - 16 and Sandusky Sept. 22 - 23.

For more details on the Theodore Too's schedule while on the lakes visit www.theodoretugboat.com

Please send images or reports of Theodore Too sightings to moderator@boatnerd.net

Theodore Too at dock. Rex Cassidy
Close up of the moving eyes. Rex Cassidy
Another view. Rex Cassidy
Another view. Christine Rohn-Tielke
Stern view. Christine Rohn-Tielke
Stern view. Rex Cassidy
Another view. Rex Cassidy
Pilot house. Christine Rohn-Tielke
Another view. Rex Cassidy
Lounge area. Christine Rohn-Tielke
Edwin M. Cotter. Christine Rohn-Tielke
Another view. Rex Cassidy
Side view. Rex Cassidy
Cotter's pilot house. Rex Cassidy


Reported by: Rex Cassidy

Tall Ships in Waukegan

08/25
The tall ship "Bat'kivshchyna" called at Waukegan, IL harbor last week on her trip through the Great Lakes. The 90-foot topsail schooner sailed from her home port of Kiev, Ukrainia and is on a good will tour promoting Ukrainian independence. She departed Waukegan and sailed to Chicago where it was to dock at Navy Pier. After her stay in the Windy City, she will proceed down the Mississippi.

While the schooner lay at the city dock, the Sam Laud arrived with a load of gypsum for the National Gypsum Company.

Reported by: Lew Clarke

Water Quality Testing in Menominee River

08/25
The W.G. Jackson, a water research vessel from Grand Valley State University in Muskegon, Mich., was in Menominee, MI last weekend conducting water quality tests in the Menominee River. The visit to Menominee last Sunday, and other ports on the Great Lakes during the past week, was sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The river received a respectable rating slightly above a B-. The Jackson's next port of call was Escanaba, MI last Wednesday.

Jackson at the Menominee Marina.
Another view.
Sign aboard the Jackson.
Grand Valley State logo on board the Jackson.

Reported by: Dick Lund

Block Visits Sturgeon Bay

08/25
The Joseph L. Block made a trip into Sturgeon Bay last week to pick up equipment at the ship yard. She came in to Bayship at 10:30 a.m. and was gone by 9:30 p.m. the same evening.

Passing the Ryerson.
Close up of the Ryerson.
Through the highway bridge.
Bow view.
Crew members on the bow.
Sherwood Point Lighthouse.

Reported by: John C. Monefeldt

Shuttle Run

08/25
Below are images of the American Republic on her way out of the Cuyahoga at the Carter Road Bridge. The maneuverable freighter is returning from unloading at the LTV steel mill.

Republic passing.
Off-watch crewman walking laps on the deck of the ship.
Crewman at the starboard gangway door.
Go Tribe is the banner that hangs from the pilothouse.

Reported by: Mike Reindel

Alpena Update

08/25
The Paul H. Townsend arrived into port at Lafarge to load Friday evening. The Jacklyn M/ barge Integrity are expected Saturday morning. The Alpena left Superior on Friday. The J.A.W Iglehart went to Cleveland on Friday.

The Larinda a 1767 Boston replica schooner stopped in Alpena on Friday. It was on its way back from Muskegon. The David Z. Norton and Great Lakes Trader were loading at Stoneport on Friday.

Reported by: Ben and Chanda Bruski

Saginaw River News

08/25
The Canadian Transfer made her first visit of the season to the Saginaw River Friday morning. The Transfer gave a security call as she passed Lights 1 & 2 of the Entrance Channel at 3:30 a.m., headed to the GM Dock in Saginaw. She finished unloading and departed the GM Dock at 1:30pm, and was downbound through Bay City around 6:00 p.m. The Transfer is expected back to the Saginaw River on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Pictures by Todd Shorkey
E.M. Ford at the Lafarge Terminal in Saginaw.
Canadian Transfer upbound passing the Ford.
Close up.
Canadian Transfer downbound at Wheeler's Landing in Bay City.
Stern View approaching Independence Bridge.

Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey

Lake Erie Update

08/26
The Canadian Navigator loaded coal in Conneaut Friday, departing west around 2:40 p.m. In other news, the J.S. St John departed Port Weller Dry Docks Thursday on her way back to Erie after a three-week stay. She started sucking sand again immediately. Navigator departs.
Close Up of her bow.
Stern view.

Reported by: Jeff Thoreson

Toledo Tour

08/25
According to the Toledo Blade Newspaper the Port of Toledo will be conducting a tour of the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority Facility September 14. The tour begins at the Toledo Shipyard and Cargo Docks and is sponsored by the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority. No other details were available at this time.

Reported by: Vern Sondak

New Service

08/25
Tugz International L.L.C., an affiliate of the 101-year old The Great Lakes Towing Company, and a member of The Great Lakes Group, announced Tuesday that the Broward County (Florida) Board of County Commissioners, by a 6-3 vote, awarded Tugz a tugboat and towing service franchise for Port Everglades, Florida. This action put an end to the 43-year monopoly on tug service in the port previously held by Seabulk International, Inc., formerly known as Hvide Marine, Inc.

"We are really excited about the opportunity to serve this growing, dynamic port,” said Tugz President, Ronald C. Rasmus. "The Z-Drive tractor tugs we are providing for Port Everglades, totaling in the aggregate over 14,000 horsepower and 375,000 pounds of bollard pull, will include our new 5,000 horsepower proprietary TRI-Z Class, a revolutionary new design that takes harbor towing to the next level with three (3) Rolls Royce/Ulstein Z-drive units providing well over 105,000 lbs. of bollard pull in all directions,” Rasmus added.

The TRI-Z, to be patented and trademarked by Tugz, was collaboratively designed by Tugz Vice President, Engineering, Joseph P. Starck, Jr., and Jonathan G. Parrott, Director of Engineering, Jensen Maritime Consultants, Inc., Seattle, Washington, to meet specific operating requirements in Port Everglades and, at the same time, provide the excellent multi-mission capability of Tugz’ popular 4,000 horsepower Z-Class design.

Model tank testing was conducted by Ron Burchett, of Ron Burchett Models, Ladysmith, British Columbia, Canada, computer generated model testing was conducted by Glosten Associates, Seattle, Washington, and the final design review was performed by naval architect and marine engineer, Robert G. Allan, of Robert Allan, Ltd., Vancouver, B.C., Canada who stated “the TRI-Z tug concept will outperform all others presently operating in Port Everglades.”

Initial service in Port Everglades will be provided with two (2) tractor tugs to be followed thereafter with a 5,100 horsepower newly-constructed tractor tug. These tugs will be the most powerful combination of tractor tugs on the East Coast of the United States and will provide Port Everglades with the best tug fleet on the Coast.

With the introduction of tug services in Port Everglades, Tugz, an affiliate of The Great Lakes Group, plans to expand its tugboat, barge and repair operations to other ports and the Caribbean as a link to its Puerto Rico operation.

The Great Lakes Group, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, owns and operates over 50 tugboats, and is the largest U.S.-flag tugboat company engaged in towing on the Great Lakes. The Group operates across the United States in more than 40 U.S. ports, in all eight Great Lakes states, including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and now Florida. What is not so widely known is that the Group’s tugboat operations extend from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to Hawaii. The Group also charters tugboats to other companies worldwide.

Drawing of the tug.


Reported by: The Great Lakes Group

Today in Great Lakes History - August 25

On August 25, 1984 the hard luck ROGER M. KYES (b ADAM E. CORNELIUS) grounded off McLouth Steel and ended crosswise in the Detroit River's Trenton Channel.

The GEORGE M. STEINBRENNER (2) arrived at Port Colborne, Ont. on August 25, 1978 in tow of the tug WILFRED M. COHEN for scrapping.

On 25 August 1919, CABOTIA (formerly HIAWATHA, wooden propeller freighter, 235'/1299GT, built 1880 at Gibraltar, MI) went ashore on Main Duck Island in Lake Ontario and split her hull, becoming a constructive loss.

August 25, 1981 - The first of the famous "Love Boat" cruises was made. The BADGER carried 520 passengers, the largest number of passengers for a carferry up to that time. It was sponsored by the Ludington Area Ambassadors.

On 25 August 1873, JOURNEYMAN (wooden schooner, 129', 235 gt, built in 1873 at Wenona, Michigan) was put in service. Her first cargo was 225,770 feet of lumber. She was built for Whitehead & Webster of Bay City and lasted until 1896.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze,Father Dowling Collection, Max Hanley, 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

Algoway Refloated

08/24
The Algoway was pulled free from the St. Clair River bottom about 11:15 a.m. Thursday morning. The ship became stuck on the sand and clay bottom close to Fawn Island Wednesday morning.

Four tugs and a barge were needed to free the Algoway. The Gaelic Tugboat Co. tugs Roger Stahl and Shannon departed their yard on the Rouge River in Detroit Wednesday night. Thursday a deck barge from Malcolm Marine was placed alongside the ship which was used to lighter the freighter. Some of the cargo was off loaded to the barge while the tugs Manitou and Shannon pulled on the bow and the Menasha and Roger Stahl worked on the stern. As the cargo was unloaded onto the barge the Algoway's engines ran full astern and the vessel began to move.

The tugs then assisted the ship for another hour to position it for unloading in the very tricky currents between Fawn Island and the mainland.

Thursday night the Algoway had finished unloading and was upbound in the St. Clair River. They planned to stop in Sarnia's North Slip for what was believed to be an inspection.

Reported by: Barry Hiscocks, Bill Jenuwine and Jamie Kerwin

Jackson Loads

08/24
The Herbert C. Jackson paid one of its occasional visits to the Twin Ports on Thursday when it arrived at the Peavey grain elevator in Superior to load. The self-unloader will take the cargo to Buffalo. Also loading grain were Federal Rhine at Cargill in Duluth and Titanas at Cenex Harvest States 1 in Superior.

Reported by: Al Miller

Trader Departs

08/24
Thursday morning the barge Great Lakes Trader and tug Joyce L. Van Enkevort cast off their lines after finishing the record setting trip to Holland, Mi. By 9:30 a.m. the pair were outbound past Kollen Park where a group of spectator had gathered to watch. By 11:00 a.m. a long salute was given as she approached the entrance to the channel to Lake Michigan. Forty-five minutes later the pier head had been cleared and the turn to the north had started. They are headed to Stoneport for their next cargo.

Reported by: Dale Rosema

Saginaw Scheduled to Depart

08/24
The Saginaw is expected to depart the Toledo Shiprepair dry dock some time in the next few days. The vessel entered the dry dock on August 8 for her 5-year survey and replacement of stern seals. A few crew members remained on board the Saginaw and were working on various projects inside the ship.

The Saginaw was also painted while in dry dock, this was the first chance the vessel's owners have had to complete a full paint job since buying the ship from American Steam Ship Company.

Saginaw in dry dock.
Stern view.
Looking down the side.
Close up of the new propeller.
Fresh paint is applied.

Reported by: T. Parker

Busy day for Bay Ship

08/24
The Mesabi Miner was sailing down the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal headed for Bay Ship on Thursday. The Sam Laud also arrived at the shipyard that morning. Both vessels were in for some type of repairs, the length of their stay was unknown.

Bay Ship recently launched the Liberty Island dredge for Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Co. It will be delivered in December. This hopper style dredge is 325 feet long and draws 14 feet empty and up to 25 feet loaded.

Mesabi Miner at Berth 15.
Close up of bow.
Sam Laud docked at the ship yard.
View from across the bay.
Close up of Miner.
Close up of Laud and the dredge Liberty Island.

Reported by: Vic DeLarwelle

Reserve in Lorain

08/24
Thursday the Reserve backed into Lorain Harbor heading to the LTV Pellet Terminal to unload.

Pictures by TZ
Backing in from Lake Erie.
Close up of the bow.
Past the lighthouse.
Close up.

Reported by: Rex Cassidy

Ship test ballast equipment designed, eliminate exotic species

08/24
Michigan officials and members of the Coast Guard in Detroit on Wednesday got their first close look at the Federal Yukon, one of the first freighters to be fitted with a prototype system designed to test for, and eliminate, exotic species from ballast water.

The ship will test several technologies, including a copper ion system, before the end of the shipping season.

The Federal Yukon, a bulk carrier owned by the Montreal-based shipping company Fednav Limited, was launched in 2000. It transports grain from the Great Lakes to countries around the world and carries steel back to the Great Lakes.

John Stubbs, Fednav's manager of technical services, created the ship's system. He said the crew and Fednav, working with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, would experiment to determine the most efficient way to rid ballast of exotic species.

Michigan Lt. Gov. Dick Posthumus emphasized the importance of industry leaders, like Fednav, and government officials from the United States and Canada getting involved in protecting the waters.

"This isn't just an issue from Michigan. It's a regional issue. One state can't do it,'' he said.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service expects zebra mussels to cause $5 billion in damage by 2002.

Reported by: Carri Simmons

Thunder Bay Update

08/24
Traffic has picked up in the port of Thunder Bay over the last few days. The tug Sandra Mary remains at Keefer while her dredge John Holden continues work over near the Mission River. The saltie Arizona Dream continues to load at Mission Terminals.

The Mapleglen arrived early on Wednesday and docked at Saskatchewan Pool 7a to begin loading. By afternoon she was over at Richardson Elevator and then Cargill Elevator early evening. Thursday afternoon she had finished up loading at Cargill and departed through the south entrance and headed down the lake.

Thursday saw several arrivals, the first was the Algocen who tied up at United Grain Growers "A" house and later moving over to Agricore to continue loading. The second arrival saw the Montrealais arriving late morning and docking at Saskatchewan Pool 7a, before slipping over to Cargill in the evening. Rounding off the arrivals on Thursday was the Algoville. She passed the downbound Mapleglen between Thunder Cape and Isle Royale and rounded the Cape under sunny skies and no wind. At the time of this news report she was proceeding past the Welcome Islands and into port, headed for an unknown elevator.

The tug Jane Ann IV and barge Sarah Spencer were due into port late Thursday night or early Friday morning.

Reported by: Rob Farrow and Ron Konkol

Menominee Update

08/24
The saltie IVI arrived in Marinette Thursday morning to unload Pig Iron. The Mc Kee Sons and tug Invincible arrived to unload coal at Menominee Paper Co, its the tug and barge's first visit to the port since Grand River Navigation took over it's operation, it had finished unloading part of the cargo and departed by 1:30 p.m.

IVI off shore as the sun rises. Scott Best
Approaching the piers. Scott Best
Tug along side. Scott Best
Heading for the dock. Scott Best
Along side the Donner. Scott Best
Stern view. Scott Best
Docked. Scott Best
McKee Sons inbound. Scott Best
Passing through the piers. Scott Best
. Scott Best
. Scott Best
. Scott Best
McKee Sons and the IVI. Dick Lund
Stern view. Scott Best
McKee Sons unloading. Scott Best
Close up. Scott Best


Reported by: Scott Best

Sarnia News

08/24
The Paterson arrived late Monday night at the Cargill Elevators in Sarnia and appeared to be unloading. The Algolake arrived around 7:30 a.m. Tuesday at the south end of the North Slip. Her stern was immediately ballasted down and the bow raised to completely expose the bow thruster. A truck from Shelley Machine and Marine with cutting torch equipment was alongside. It is unknown what type of repairs were being made.

Reported by: Jamie Kerwin

Detroit Traffic

08/24
Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Thursday evening.

Mighty Jake upbound from their work area off Zug Island to Nicholson's for the evening.
Stern view.
Sandviken (Bahamas) downbound at Fighting Island North Light.
Stern view.

Reported by: Mike Nicholls

Toledo Update

08/24
The Saginaw and USCGC Neah Bay are in both dry docks at Toledo Shipyard undergoing surveys and miscellaneous repairs. The Mantadoc was loading grain at Anderson's "E" Elevator. The tanker Gemini was at the B-P Dock.

The dredge Buxton II with her related equipment and tug Muskegon were dredging the ship channel in Maumee Bay between the CSX and Torco Docks. The small hopper dredge Atchalafaya was dredging the ship channel several miles north of the Torco Dock.

The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the CSL Niagara early Friday morning followed by the Algosoo, and John G. Munson on Saturday. The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Dock will be the Armco on Sunday morning.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Help Wanted

08/24
Grand River Navigation is now accepting applications for the Relief Positions of 2nd & 3rd Assistant Engineer for the M/V Maumee and Calumet. Qualified candidates should contact Mr. Sam Bomyea at 440-930-2024 (employment inquires only.)

Today in Great Lakes History - August 24

LEON SIMARD was launched August 24, 1974.

On August 24, 1910 the THOMAS F. COLE ran aground on a shoal in the St. Marys River severely damaging her hull plates.

The C.H. McCULLOUGH, JR was launched on August 24, 1907 as a) WARD AMES .

On August 24, 1985, PAUL H. CARNAHAN arrived for her final lay up at Nicholson's in Ecorse, Michigan. Ironically, only a few hours later, her near sister LEON FALK, JR. departed the same slip on her final trip bound for Quebec City and overseas scrapping.

The BURLINGTON burned to the water's edge in Mississauga Strait near Manitoulin Island on August 24, 1895.

On 24 August 1885, IOSCO (wooden schooner-barge, 124'/230GT, built at Alabaster, MI in 1873) was heavily damaged by fire. She was rebuilt as an unrigged barge and lasted until 1912.

On 24 August 1882, the Port Huron Times reported that "the long looked for launch of the Stave Company's new river steamer MARY took place this afternoon between 4 and 5 o'clock and was witnessed by hundreds of spectators. The last support being knocked away, she slid very gracefully as far as the ways reached and then landed anything but gracefully in the mud where she now lies." She remained stuck in the mud until she was pulled free five days later.

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

New Record for Holland

08/23
The barge Great Lakes Trader and tug Joyce L. Van Enkevort arrived in Holland, Mi about 7:00 p.m. Wednesday. She was in port to deliver the first portion of a three-product load of limestone from Calcite for the Brewer's dock. Her visit sets a new record for length of vessel and load tonnage (24,000) for the Lake Michigan port.

The previous records were held by the H. Lee White for length and the Wilfred Sykes for tonnage.

At the rate the barge was unloading it should depart early this morning.

The Trader arrived on the Great Lakes as a newly built barge last year. During that season she carried taconite pellets for the steel industry. With the down turn in the steel industry she has been carrying cargoes of stone to avoid lay-up.

Reported by: Bob Vande Vusse

Picket Line Delays Traffic

08/23
Traffic in Hamilton was delayed for more than six hours Wednesday as 30 pickets walked the length of the Burlington Canal Lift Bridge to keep it from being raised for ship traffic. The group picketing were protesting a lack of contracts between the Public Service Alliance of Canada and the government and the amount of their annual pay raise.

The Canadian Venture, Algocape and tug James A. Hannah with barge 5101 had already sailed into the Lake Ontario harbor before the bridge was lowered and the protest began, effectively locking them in. Wednesday evening, the saltie Scan Partner went to anchor in the lake waiting for the bridge to open. Nine small vessels, including sailboats and a Canadian Coast Guard boat, sat docked to the pier, unable to pass under the bridge.

The Hamilton police were called to the scene as labor relations negotiators tried to work out a deal with the union and restore bridge traffic. The Hamilton Spectator newspaper reports that the union planned to delay shipping traffic for 30 minutes. The situation appears to have escalated into the lengthily delay once police were on scene.

The bridge later returned to service restoring shipping traffic in the busy port.

Thursday evening the CSL Niagara departed the coal dock at Stelco and passed through the Burlington Ship Canal to Lake Ontario. No whistle salutes were exchanged between the Niagara and the bridge operator. It is customary for vessels to exchange whistle salutes with the bridge operator at the Burlington Ship Canal. The silence was notable as the vessel passed under the bridge.

Reported by: Patricia Burgon

Algoway Grounds

08/23
At approximately 6:00 a.m. Wednesday morning the Algoway was attempting to dock at Southwestern Sales at Sombra, Ont. with a full load of stone. This dock is located behind Fawn Island on the St. Clair River. The ship was caught by the strong currents between the island and the mainland and combined with a strong following breeze, became stuck in the sand and clay bottom close to the island.

Lines were secured from bow and stern to the mainland shore and with the use of her bow thruster and ships engines, attempted to free herself. These efforts were unsuccessful.

The tug Menasha arrived from Sarnia at about 11:00 a.m. to try and help free her. The tug Manitou arrived from Port Huron about 7:00 p.m. to assist. At 9:30 p.m. the Algoway remained stranded with the tugs working her bow and stern.

Reported by: Barry Hiscocks

Saginaw River News

08/23
The Agawa Canyon was inbound the Saginaw River passing Lights 1 & 2 of the Entrance Channel around 1:00 a.m. Wednesday morning, headed up to the Buena Vista Dock.

The Buffalo, who had unloaded in Saginaw earlier in the day Tuesday, was outbound and met the Agawa Canyon at the Bay City Wirt Dock. After the upbound Canyon had passed, the Buffalo continued outbound to the lake at 3:30 a.m.

The tug Donald C. Hannah and her tanker barge gave a security call passing the Pump Out Island at 7:00 a.m. They were headed to the Triple Clean Liquifuels Dock.

The Agawa Canyon completed unloading her cargo and was downbound passing Veteran's Park in Saginaw at 2:45 p.m. The Donald C. Hannah and her barge departed the Triple Clean Dock at 9:50 p.m. after discharging her cargo of #6 Fuel Oil.

Pictures by Todd Shorkey
USSNCS Greyfox Downbound at Independence Bridge.
Agawa Canyon Downbound at Saginaw Vet's Park.
Close up.
Stern view.

Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey

Detroit Traffic

08/23
Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Wednesday evening.

Paul R Tregurtha upbound at Grassy Island.
Stern view.
Algomarine upbound at Grassy Island. She was loaded with coal for Sault Ste. Marie, ON.
Stern view.

Reported by: Mike Nicholls

Toledo News

08/23
The John J. Boland finished loading coal and departed Wednesday morning. The Algomarine then followed the Boland loading coal and she departed during the afternoon.

The Adam E. Cornelius and American Mariner remain in lay-up at their respective dock sites. The Saginaw and USCGC Neah Bay were in both dry docks at the Shipyard undergoing survey and repairs. The Saginaw is expected to depart on Friday. The dredge Buxton II and related dredging equipment with their tug Muskegon are now dredging the ship channel in Maumee Bay between the CSX and Torco Docks. The small hopper dredge Atchalafaya is dredging the ship channel near the Toledo Harbor Lighthouse.

The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Coal Docks will be the CSL Niagara early Friday morning, followed by the Algosoo and John G. Munson on Saturday. The next scheduled ore boat due in at the Torco Dock will be the Armco on Sunday morning. The next scheduled grain boat due in will be the Mantadoc within the next day or two.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman

Hamilton Update

08/23
Wednesday evening the Rt. Hon. Paul J. Martin was unloading iron ore at Stelco. The Hamilton Energy was refueling the vessel. Over at Stelco's coal dock, the CSL Niagara was unloading. The Niagara departed about 6:30 p.m.

At Dofasco, the Canadian Century was unloading iron ore and at 6:15 p.m., the Canadian Miner pulled into the iron ore dock to unload.

The saltie, Tram