Great Lakes & Seaway Shipping News Archive

Imbat Captain Arrested

From CTV News, reported by Kent Malo
 

Dennis Hale to be in the Soo

Dennis is the only crew member to survive the sinking of the Daniel J. Morrell on November 29, 1966 in Lake Huron.

Soo Weather Forecast Looking Good for Open House

Friday is the Locks Open House, and Saturday is the Boatnerd Freighter Chasing Cruise aboard the Chief Shingwauk.

William G. Mather Air Show Deck Party

Hollyhock goes in for a Checkup

8/31
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Hollyhock is out of the water for eight weeks for a tune-up and modification. It also will be more visible when it returns to Port Huron in mid-October - at least on a computer screen.

The 225-foot buoy tender is in a Wisconsin dry dock at the Bay Shipbuilding Co., a partner of Marinette Marine, the company that originally built the $29 million ship.

While there it will receive a paint job on its hull and an overhaul on its onboard sewage system, said operations officer Lt. J.G. Tory Buerger.

The cutter also will get new equipment that will plot its exact location on a computer for vessel traffic centers, such as the one in Sarnia, which monitor the position of commercial traffic.

The transponder equipment, called the Automatic Identification System (AIS),  is required for all freighters that operate on the Great Lakes, but so far no Coast Guard cutters have been outfitted with the equipment.

"The Hollyhock is prototyping the system for all Great Lakes cutters," Buerger said.

Former Coast Guard Rear Adm. Ronald Silva ordered transponders to be put on all cutters after the 2003 collision between the Hollyhock and the 1,000-foot freighter Stewart J. Cort. Both ships sustained minor damage.

One of the reasons for the collision was the crew said they didn't have an exact location of the Cort, and the Vessel Traffic Service in Sault Ste. Marie didn't have an exact location of either ship.

While many of the Hollyhock's crew are in Wisconsin overseeing the maintenance work, others have remained in Port Huron to work on organizing the cutter's support building next to the Port Huron Coast Guard Station.

The $550,000-building provides a mix of office space and maintenance rooms the crew will use to order supplies, catch up on mail and do basic engineering tasks ashore.

Supplies were moved in this month, and the building should be fully operational by the time the Hollyhock returns.

Reported by: Chris Sebastian, Port Huron Times Herald

Region-bound iron ore held up in New Orleans

8/31
Jody Peacock, Indianapolis-based spokesman for the Ports of Indiana, said the port in Burns Harbor receives some shipments that originate on the Mississippi River in New Orleans that could be impacted by Hurricane Katrina.

Many of those shipments come from China and are loaded onto barges in New Orleans. From there, the shipments travel up the Mississippi River to the Illinois River, where they continue north to Lake Michigan and over to the port in Burns Harbor, Peacock said.

Clump iron ore used by steel plants along the Lake Michigan shores is currently in New Orleans awaiting shipment to Burns Harbor, Peacock said, and likely will be delayed at least four days.

"Any time you have a hurricane, there is a two-day shutdown period, and it takes two days to get going again," Peacock said.

"So, it's four days' minimum delay if there is no major damage. If there is major damage -- like a ship sinks and blocks the channel -- who knows how long it may be."

Being able to use the river systems is helpful to Indiana ports, Peacock said, because it allows for shipping year-round. The St. Lawrence Seaway closes annually from January to March for maintenance of the locks.

Peacock said the rain from Hurricane Katrina actually could help river shipments, particularly along the Ohio River. That river and some others are still reeling from the effects of the summer drought, and low water levels have hurt shipping imports and exports.

"In a strange way, it could be a blessing," Peacock said.

Reported by: Northwest Indiana Times

Ferry ridership Reported to be up

8/31
Average per-trip ridership on the high-speed ferry between Rochester and Toronto has more than doubled since its June 30 startup, with weekends typically drawing 700-plus passengers onboard the 785-seat ship, the ship's manager said.

But looking to offset rising gas prices, Bay Ferries has submitted a request to the ferry's board of directors to "scope out" possible schedule reductions and other adjustments. Ticket prices will not change.

With the first formal reporting of operations due next month, the news overall appears to bolster predictions that the Spirit of Ontario would shrug off its slow start.

"We continue to move in the right direction," said Don Cormier, vice president for operations and safety with manager Bay Ferries Great Lakes LLC. "We had a half-dozen sailings this past weekend that were basically sold out."

But what are ridership totals, and what does that mean for the ship's financial position? While Cormier knows, he isn't saying publicly. And it is unclear how much detail is being shared with the city.

Former operator Canadian American Transportation Systems ran the ferry last summer before abruptly shutting down after less than three months, citing more than $1.7 million in debt. The city then stepped in, creating the Rochester Ferry Co., and backing a loan to buy the $32 million ferry at a foreclosure auction plus cover startup expenses and initial shortfalls. Rochester Ferry then hired Bay Ferries as the manager.

"Some of the information, (Bay Ferries) feel it's proprietary, but it is information the board is entitled to," said Benjamin Douglas, president of the ferry board and a City Council member. "We are committed to put a full report together."

The ship's schedule already was to be scaled back beginning Sept. 6. Cormier declined to discuss what changes might be in the works, saying an official announcement is expected soon. Douglas said any change would require consensus of the ferry board's executive committee.

Reported by: Rochester Democrat and Chronicle

Stelco decides to go it alone on Lake Erie wind farm plans

8/31
Stelco Inc., which is at the centre of a $350-million lawsuit after backing out of a major wind development project, has decided to go it alone with plans for a 40-turbine wind farm around its Lake Erie steel plant in Nanticoke, the Toronto Star reports.

If completed, the project would produce enough electricity to power more than 12,000 homes in a region known for its coal-fired Nanticoke plant, the province's worst polluter.

"This facility would generate up to approximately 60 megawatts of electricity to be dispatched to the province of Ontario grid via an existing interconnection agreement with the Hydro One system," says an advertisement the company placed in a Haldimand County newspaper.

Haldimand Mayor Marie Trainer was notified in an Aug. 19 letter, obtained by the Star, that Canada's largest steel producer has commenced an environmental assessment of the planned wind farm location, as required by Ontario's Ministry of the Environment.

Dean Comand, who is leading the project for Stelco, said the company is committed to green energy and is trying to determine whether the wind farm will be economically viable.

He would not say whether the project is part of a longer-term strategy of luring a wind manufacturer to the area. "We're just doing all the detail engineering now," said Comand.

The wind industry is the second-largest buyer of steel, behind the automotive industry, in countries such as Germany -- good news in a sector suffering from overcapacity.

Stelco had a 20-year plan with consulting firm Georgian Windpower to install 2,200 megawatts of wind power in the area, beginning with an initial 80-megawatt wind farm at Stelco's Nanticoke Industrial Park.

But Stelco pulled out of the project on April 15, two days before Georgian Windpower was to secure $150 million in funding for the development. Georgian Windpower responded by filing a $350-million breach-of-contract lawsuit.

Port Reports - August 31

Duluth-Superior - Al Miller
Edwin H. Gott was back Tuesday morning in port undergoing some sort of repairs at the port terminal’s Garfield dock. The vessel was ballasted down by the stern so workers could access the bow.

Also Tuesday morning, CHS elevator in Superior was busy with Pineglen loading at the gallery and Montrealais loading in berth 2. It has been, by far, the busiest elevator in the Twin Ports for the past several seasons.

Oglebay Norton was loading coal at Midwest Energy Terminal. Indiana Harbor and Walter J. McCarthy Jr. also were due at the coal dock Tuesday. All are bound for St. Clair as their first stop.

Federal Manitou was expected to depart with a load of bentonite. It was loading Monday afternoon at Hallet dock under a big cloud of dust.

Marquette - Lee Rowe
The Herbert C. Jackson loaded ore at Marquette on Sunday. The Michipicoten arrived for a load on Monday. The Lee A. Tregurtha is also expected at the ore dock. The tug Joyce VanEnkevort and barge Great Lakes Trader is due at the Shiras dock Monday and will go to the ore dock for a load on Tuesday. The Michipicoten is expected to return on Tuesday along with fleetmate Saginaw.

Milwaukee - Paul Erspamer
Sunday afternoon the Algoway deposited a load of salt at dockside in Milwaukee's inner harbor. Although near the turning basin, Algoway then took the unusual approach of departing stern-first into the Milwaukee River and out onto Lake Michigan.

Monday morning the Russian oceangoing bulker Aleksandr Suvorov was assisted by two Great Lakes Towing tugs to a berth at Nidera Grain.

The tug Joyce L. Van Enkevort and barge Great Lakes Trader were inbound the Saginaw River Saturday morning stopping first at the Bay City Wirt dock to lighter.  The pair then continued upriver and finished unloading at the Wirt Stone dock in Saginaw.  There were outbound late Saturday night.

Buffalo by Brian W.
Coast Guard search and rescue teams found an oil slick and two aircraft seats floating on the lake Sunday. Vessels with side scan sonar are being sent to a location off Port Colborne Monday morning to check the bottom for the plane missing since Saturday night.

Saginaw River - Todd Shorkey
Sunday on the Saginaw River saw the tug Karen Andrie and her barge call on the Triple Clean Liquifuels dock in Essexville. She departed Monday morning, passing the inbound tug Dorothy Ann and barge Pathfinder who called on the Bay Aggregates dock in Bay City. Once finished unloading, the pair departed the slip heading for the lake allowing the tug Rebecca Lynn and her barge to take her place and unload at the Bit-Mat dock.

The Rebecca Lynn was outbound early Monday morning. Inbound on Monday was the Tug Gregory J. Busch. Her security call indicated she was headed for the BMT dock in Carrollton
 

The 150th Soo Locks Anniversary Closing Ceremonies

Noon – 2 p.m. “Celebrate the Great Lakes” musical production.
This special presentation by well known musicians and performers from around the Great Lakes is filled with music, storytelling, dances and laughs as stories from 10,000 years ago through the late 1990’s are portrayed. Held under the tent between the MacArthur and Poe Locks.

3 p.m. Closing Ceremonies
Held by the main entrance to the Locks Park, political leaders gather to pay tribute to the Soo Locks, closing this year’s celebration and sharing their visions of the future. Those scheduled to speak include:
- Governor Jennifer Granholm
- U.S. Senator Carl Levin
- U.S. Representative Bart Stupak
- Sault Tribe Chairperson Aaron Payment
- Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Anthony Bosbous

4 p.m. Time Capsule Burial
Following the closing ceremonies, a special sesquicentennial time capsule will be buried in the park for the benefit of future anniversary celebrations.

4:15 Dodworth Saxhorn Band Concert – Lower Locks Park
This 17-piece ensemble will fill the park with 1800’s era music using period instruments. Bring your lawn chair, watch the ships go by, and listen to the music!

6 p.m. - Anniversary Ball – Kewadin Casino Ballroom (advance purchased midnight tickets required. For info call 906 632-2923).
A filet mignon/whitefish dinner followed by dancing to the music of the 17-piece Dodworth Saxhorn Band, playing antique instruments, and Hogans Goat, a contemporary band, all in celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the Soo Locks!

Freighter Chasing Cruise on Saturday, Sept. 3, at 6:00 p.m. This is a repeat of our annual trip aboard the Chief Shingwauk leaving from Roberta Bondar Pavilion in Soo, Ontario. Cruise will return at 9:00 p.m. Cost is C$30.00 Canadian or $25.00 US per person. Price includes dinner with a menu to be determined. Cash bar on board.

Make reservations today by calling (705) 253-9850, or 1-877-226-3665 with your credit card, or send your check to Locks Tours Canada Boat Cruises, P.O. Box 23002, Station Mall, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario P6A 6W6.
Details on other Boatnerd Gatherings are available at the Gathering page.

Glenn Nickerson

8/31
Glenn Nickerson, the always helpful representative for the Boatracs Satellite Communications system

Glenn Nickerson - 52, loving husband, a devoted father and grampie, of Melbourne, Yarmouth Co., died August 24, 2005, in Arcadia, Yarmouth Co. Born January 29, 1953, in Yarmouth, he was the son of the late Paul and Joyce (Dort) Nickerson. He was employed with Air IQ Boatracs. He was a musician, an avid fisherman and loved to canoe. He loved the outdoors. He is survived by his wife, the former Judith E. Fergus; daughter, Cheryl (Frank) Grant, Arcadia, Yarmouth Co.; grandchildren, Paxton and Andie. The body was resting in Sweeny's Funeral Home, Yarmouth, for visitation from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Saturday. Funeral service was 2 p.m. Sunday in Sweeny's Funeral Chapel, Rev. A.D. "Bill" Newell officiating. Burial will be in Cheggogin Cemetery. Donations in memory may be made to charity of choice. On-line condolences may be sent to: sweenys@ns.aliantzinc.ca  

Reported by: Eric Stapleton

Photo Gallery Updates - August 31

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery
New albums in the Shipping
 

Today in Great Lakes History - August 31

On August 31, 1977, the BELLE RIVER entered service, departing Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, for Superior, Wisconsin. Renamed b.) WALTER J MC CARTHY JR in 1977.

In mid-August 1987, a peregrine falcon that 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 salty 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 it was mined in Montana. Other shipments were to have been made later as well.

On 31 August 1906, CAVALIER (3-mast wooden schooner, 134 foot 268 gross tons, 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 foot x 26 foot x 8 foot 6 inches. She was built for the Lake Michigan lumber trade.

On 31 August 1900, efforts to free the newly launched steel steamer CAPTAIN THOMAS WILSON from the mud in the Black River at Port Huron, Michigan 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 p.m. 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.

In 1982, The NIAGARA, better known as the sandsucker, made its last trip through the I-75 Bridge with a cargo of sand for the Chevrolet Saginaw Metal Castings plant.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Al Miller, James Neumiller, Jody 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

 

Pole to test lake's wind power

8/30
Six, thin steel arms holding a variety of scientific equipment stretch out across Lake Erie this morning, waiting for a breeze. Those 10-foot arms and the measuring devices attached to them could help determine the future of wind power on the lake.

Technicians and volunteers finished building the tallest wind-monitoring tower on the Great Lakes Monday night just a few miles from downtown Cleveland.

It took a heavy-lift helicopter crane three attempts over three hours to position the upper half of the galvanized steel pole into place atop the Cleveland Water Department intake crib.

The wind tower rises 165 feet above the lake atop the orange water crib, which sits 3.5 miles north of Edgewater Park and is the major collection point for Greater Cleveland's drinking water. Instruments at 100 feet, 130 feet and 165 feet will record weather conditions and the wind's speed, frequency and direction.

Until now, scientists have not had hard data about Lake Erie's wind. Wind data has been theoretical based on math models and buoys on the lake. The 3-ton wind tower will collect data for two years. It will be used to determine whether it's feasible and economical to build large, electricity-generating wind turbines several miles offshore in Lake Erie.

"This is for study," Godwin said. "It's not a mandate for wind turbines on the lake." But the data is needed before any power company will invest money to build wind turbines, Godwin said.

Crews put the lower half of the tower into place on July 25. But fog-like haze prevented the project from getting finished that day.

High winds almost prevented the work from being finished Monday. This was the first time the helicopter company had built a tower over water, said Scott LeDuc, a member of the ground crew of Construction Helicopters Inc. of Detroit.

"On land, the winds stay down," he said. "Out here on Lake Erie, there is nothing to hold it down." Data will be available starting in about two weeks at the Web site, www.GreenEnergyOhio.org.

Reported by: Cleveland Plain Dealer

Today in Great Lakes History - August 30

On 30 August 1893, CENTURION (steel propeller freighter, 350 foot, 3401 gross tons) was launched by F. W. Wheeler (hull #100) at W. Bay City, Michigan. The name was a pun to celebrate the ship as Frank Wheeler’s 100th hull.

The CHARLES E WILSON was christened August 30, 1973, at Bay Shipbuilding Co., for the American Steamship Co., and completed her sea trials on September 6th. She was renamed b.) JOHN J BOLAND in 2000.

On August 30, 1942, the A H FERBERT 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 d.) WILLOWGLEN, a.) MESABI, made its first visit to Duluth-Superior under that name. She loaded grain at Harvest States in Superior, Wisconsin, 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 c.) JOSEPH X ROBERT.

The H G DALTON entered service on August 30, 1903, for Great Lakes & St. Lawrence Transportation Co. Later b.) COURSEULLES in 1916, c.) GLENDOCHART in 1922, d.) CHATSWORTH in 1927, e.) BAYLEAF in 1942 and f.) MANCOX in 1951.

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 foot, 445 tons, built in 1868, at Detroit, Michigan) was bound from Marquette, Michigan for Cleveland, Ohio 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, thousands of people gathered at the Jenks Shipbuilding Company near the Grand Trunk Bridge on the Black River in Port Huron, Michigan 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

Staten Island Ferry Downbound

8/29

The Staten Island Ferry, Spirit of America, passed through the Welland Canal on Sunday afternoon. The Spirit is on her delivery trip to New York from the builder's yard in Marinette, Wisconsin.

Reported by  David Bull, Bill Bird and Brian W.

Additional pictures in the News Photo Gallery.

Port Reports - August 29

Alpena by Ben & Chanda McClain
The cement silos at Lafarge were busy on Sunday with three vessels coming in to load. The Alpena arrived in port early Sunday morning, later followed by the Paul H. Townsend which tied up at the coal dock to wait. The Alpena was outbound in the lake by 7 a.m. heading for Green Bay,Wisconsin. The tug G.L Ostrander and barge Integrity was next in port, tying up around 8 a.m. to take on cargo for Saginaw. The Paul H. Townsend was the last vessel of the day and departed before 5 p.m. for Muskegon.

The Great Lakes Trader was loading at Stoneport on Sunday.

Saginaw by Todd Shorkey
The Walter J. McCarthy Jr. called on the Consumers Energy dock early Sunday morning to unload coal.  She completed her unload and was outbound for the lake around noon, backing out into the Saginaw Bay to turn around and head for the lake.

The tug Joyce L. Van Enkevort and barge Great Lakes Trader were inbound the Saginaw River Saturday morning stopping first at the Bay City Wirt dock to lighter.  The pair then continued upriver and finished unloading at the Wirt Stone dock in Saginaw.  There were outbound late Saturday night.

Search efforts were underway Sunday for a missing aircraft that disappeared over Lake Erie Saturday night.  A single engine Cherokee with three people on board dropped off the Buffalo radar scopes at 9:40 p.m. approximately eight miles north of Dunkirk Harbor. Buffalo International Airport controllers alerted the Niagara falls Air Force Base which then notified the Coast Guard. The Buffalo Coast Guard Base was coordinating the search that involved local marine units, helicopters from Detroit, USCG Biscane Bay, a Canadian Coast Guard Cutter, and a Canadian Coast Guard C-130 from Trenton, Ontario. Aircraft were calling in positions of the search operation all day long and nothing has been found as of 3PM.

Toronto by Charlie Gibbons
James Norris was in port Friday night unloading in the Turning Basin. Work on fitting out the long-idle Algobay began last week.

Webcam Fund Raising

8/29
The popularity of the Detroit River Livecam has literally worn out the present equipment and at this time we are starting a Fund Raising Drive to replace the camera. This new Web Cam Fund Raising Project includes the option of using PayPal.

Beginning in July 2003, the Great Lakes Maritime Institute and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum have provided a unique service to the maritime community. The 'Detroit River Watch' has brought the passing lake and ocean freighters, motor and sailboats, and even the rowing shells to the home and office monitors of the boat watching community.  

This popular feature has not come without a price. Since the start of the project over two years ago, the counter on the webpage has logged more than 600,000 visits. Numerous viewers have enjoyed the connection to our maritime heritage, and the over use of the current equipment now requires replacement equipment. Additionally the expense of our high speed wireless connection over the past two years has cost almost $8,000.00.  

The Dossin Great Lakes Museum is located on a main shipping channel, and the 'Detroit River Watch' camera is interactive and extremely popular. Control access is available to viewers to actually follow and zoom in on a passing vessel in real time.

The new equipment will offer the same user control, a stronger zoom and more robust hardware to accommodate the heavy usage the camera sees.

The group was ready to start a fund raising drive when the existing camera failed. All funds raised will go toward the purchase of the new camera, payment of the monthly connection charges and expansion of the camera network. Before the failure of this unit GLMI had planned to add a second river watch camera at a location below the Ambassador Bridge, giving live user controlled images of over half the Detroit River. This second camera is planned for but will depend on the fund raising.

Click here for More Information or to Donate

Photo Gallery Updates - August 29

News Photo Gallery updated

Public Photo Gallery
New albums in the Shipping
 

Today in Great Lakes History - August 29

It is not often that a schooner tows a tug, but on 29 August 1882, the tug J A CRAWFORD was towing the big schooner JAMES COUCH to Chicago when the wind picked up and the schooner passed the tug. Captain Gorman of the CRAWFORD cut the engine and allowed the COUCH to tow him until the got close to the harbor. Then the schooner shortened sail and the tug finished the job of towing her into port.

On August 29, 1942, the A H FERBERT entered service for the Pittsburgh Steamship Co..

On her maiden voyage August 29, 1979, the INDIANA HARBOR sailed for Two Harbors, Minnesota to load iron ore pellets for Indiana Harbor, Indiana. 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 foot, 758 tons) 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, Al Miller, James Neumiller, Jody 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

 

Photo Gallery Updates - August 28

News Photo Gallery updated
Note: Please be advised that due to the large volume of photos being submitted for inclusion in this gallery and the time constraints involved in handling each submission, only selected photos relating to news stories will be used. Please visit the Public Gallery to upload and share you own trip photos (link below).

Public Photo Gallery
New albums in the Shipping
 

Today in Great Lakes History - August 28

Capt. Frank R. West took his 8 year old son Robert and the boy’s friend 8 year old Edward Erickson aboard the new schooner LOUIS MEEKER as guests on a trip carrying 27,000 bushels of oats from Chicago to Buffalo. There was hardly any wind and it took them four days to creep north as far as Pentwater. On 28 August 1872, Captain West saw a storm coming and he had the sails taken in as a precaution. The winds came so suddenly and they hit the vessel so hard that the schooner was knocked over on her beam ends. Little Robert West, his dad and three sailors were lost when the vessel sank 15 minutes later near Big Sable Point. Peter Danielson dove and tried to cut away the lifeboat as the schooner was sinking and he almost drowned in that unsuccessful attempt. The mizzen gaff broke free and seven sailors plus little Edward Erickson clung to it until they were picked up by the schooner WILLIAM O BROWN six hours later.

Mr. 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, Pennsylvania 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 gross tons, 1925 net tons, 2450 deadweight tons. A new starboard tail shaft was installed at this time. Her service speed increased to 18 knots (20.7 mph).

The JOHN ANDERSON, a.) LUZON of 1902, was outbound through the Duluth Ship Canal on August 28, 1928, the ANDERSON struck the north pier suffering $18,000 in damage. Renamed c.) G G POST in 1935. The POST was scrapped at Istanbul, Turkey in 1972.

Gulf Oil Corp., tanker 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 a.) JOHN A TOPPING, was laid up for the last time on August 28, 1981, at Toledo, Ohio and remained idle there until July 15, 1994, when she was towed to be scrapped.

On 28 August 1870, CHASKA (wooden scow-schooner, 72 foot, 50 tons, built in 1869, at Duluth, Minnesota 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, David Swayze, Al Miller, James Neumiller, Jody 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

 

Today in Great Lakes History - August 27

The new Poe Lock at the Soo was first flooded on 27 August 1968.

On 27 August 1886, the Detroit Evening News reported that a fireman on the tug J H HACKLEY of 1874, was sent to watch for a leak in the boiler, which was being filled with cold water at a dock in Chicago. He fell asleep and the boiler overflowed, very nearly sinking the vessel before another tug could pump her dry.

The AGAWA CANYON (Hull#195) was launched in 1971, at Collingwood, Ontario by Collingwood Shipyards Ltd. for Algoma Central Railway Ltd.

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

JOHN O MC KELLAR (Hull#12) was launched August 27, 1952, at St. Catharines, Ontario by Port Weller Drydocks Ltd.for the Colonial Steamship Co. Ltd. (Scott Misener, mgr.), Port Colborne, Ontario. Renamed b.) ELMGLEN in 1984.

The WILLIAM CLAY FORD then renamed b.) US266029 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.

The WILLIAM B DICKSON (Hull#75) was launched August 27, 1910, at Ecorse, Michigan by Great Lakes Engineering Works for the Pittsburgh Steamship Co., Cleveland, Ohio. Renamed b.) MERLE M MC CURDY in 1969. She was scrapped at Port Colborne, Ontario in 1989.

The U.S. Coast Guard Buoy Tender MESQUITE (WAGL-305) 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 27 August 1924, CITY QUEEN (wooden propeller steam tug, 71 foot, 69 gross tons, built in 1900, at Midland, Ontario) burned to a total loss 1⁄4 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, Michigan. The tug's dimensions were 100 foot keel, 132 foot overall, and 23 foot beam. She was built for George E. Brockway.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Al Miller, Jody Aho, 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

 

Staten Island Ferry Departs

8/26

Passing Port Huron Friday afternoon. Frank Frisk

The new Staten Island Ferry, Spirit of America, departed the builders yard in Marinette on Thursday. The ferry continued  down bound over night. The ferry was making good time and passed Port Huron about 12:30 p.m. on Friday afternoon.

The Spirit was expected to continue down bound with out stopping until reaching the Welland Canal on Saturday morning. The ferry passed Belle Isle about 5 p.m. Friday afternoon.

This is the third and final ferry built by Marinette for service to Staten Island.

Check back for updates, please send pictures to news@boatnerd.net

Reported by  Brian Jackson

Additional pictures in the News Photo Gallery.

Vlieborg Update

8/26
The saltie Vlieborg apparently suffered a temporary steering failure that caused it strike the north pier of the Duluth Ship Canal, Coast Guard officials said.

Vlieborg was departing Duluth when it failed to complete its turn as it approached the canal’s entrance. The vessel struck the pier while a crowd of tourists watched and took pictures. No one was injured.

Damage to the Vlieborg was minor. Corps of Engineers officials said the ship punctured the pier’s sheet piling and toppled a light standard, causing about $200,000 in damage.

The Vlieborg remained anchored in Duluth harbor on Friday morning while the Coast Guard continued to investigate the incident.

The accident received extensive media coverage in the Twin Ports, mainly because it occurred during midday and many people were able to take digital photos of the ship as it struck. The piers have been struck many times since they were constructed. Damage has usually been relatively light; mainly damage to sheet piling or fractures in the concrete pier caps.  

Reported by  Al Miller

Port Reports - August 26

Sturgeon Bay by Wendell Wilke
Hollyhock arrived Bay Shipbuilding on Tuesday afternoon. She was in dry dock on Thursday.

At the fitout wall, awaiting her tug arrival for delivery, is the Hornbeck barge 11104. In the graving dock the Hornbeck barge 11105 is nearing completion and close to float-out.

At the dock wall the tug Norfolk is being refitted for future service with the new Lafarge Cement Barge under construction for Spring 2006 delivery.

Remaining idle at the yard are the Edward L. Ryerson and former Washington Island Ferry Voyageur, now owned by Shoreline Marine.

Saginaw by Todd Shorkey
The tug Joyce L. Van Enkevort and barge Great Lakes Trader were outbound the Saginaw River early Thursday morning after unloading overnight at the Saginaw Rock Products dock.

Photo Gallery Updates - August 26

News Photo Gallery updated
Note: Please be advised that due to the large volume of photos being submitted for inclusion in this gallery and the time constraints involved in handling each submission, only selected photos relating to news stories will be used. Please visit the Public Gallery to upload and share you own trip photos (link below).

Public Photo Gallery
New albums in the Shipping
 

Today in Great Lakes History - August 26

On 26 August 1872, wooden propeller steamer LAKE BREEZE of 1868, was steaming from Saginaw to Mackinaw City with freight and about 40 passengers when fire broke out in the kitchen while off Au Sable Michigan. Captain M. S. Lathrop ordered the engines shut down and the steam pumps activated. The crew battled the blaze with fire hoses and put the flames out. When the LAKE BREEZE pulled into Mackinaw City that night, the partially burned vessel was still smoking.

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, in route to Port Maitland, Ontario for scrapping.

The HENRY C FRICK (Hull#615) was launched August 26, 1905, at West Bay City, Michigan by West Bay City Ship Building Co. for the Pittsburgh Steamship Co. Renamed b.) MICHIPICOTEN in 1964, she foundered off Anticosti Island on November 17, 1972 while being towed overseas for scrapping..

EMORY L FORD entered service on August 26, 1916, to load iron ore at Marquette, Michigan. Renamed b.) RAYMOND H REISS in 1965.

The GLENEAGLES (Hull#14) was launched August 26, 1925, at Midland, Ontario by Midland Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. for the Great Lakes Tramsportation Co. Ltd. (James Playfair, mgr.). Converted to a self-unloader in 1963. Renamed b.) SILVERDALE in 1978. She was scrapped at Windsor, Ontario in 1984.

The CHIEF WAWATAM (Hull#119) was launched on August 26, 1911, at Toledo, Ohio by Toledo Ship Building Co. for the Mackinaw Transportation Co.. She was built with three large propellers, two in the stern for propulsion and one in the bow for icebreaking. She was sold to Purvis Marine Ltd., of Sault Ste, Marie, Ontario in 1988, and cut down to a barge. The Port Weller Drydocks Ltd., built, passenger-cargo ship FEDERAL PALM (Hull#29) was christened August 26, 1961, for the West Indies Shipping Corp., Ltd. She was built on the Great Lakes, but never served their ports. Renamed b.) CENPAC ROUNDER in 1975, she was scrapped in 1979.

On August 26, 1934, while on a Sunday sightseeing cruise, MIDLAND CITY of 1871, a.) MAUD 153.2 foot, 521 gross tons, damaged her bottom on a shoal near Present Island in Georgian Bay. She settled with her stern under water and her bow high in the air.

On 26 August 1875, COMET (propeller passenger/package freight, 181 foot, 744 tons, built in 1857, at Cleveland, Ohio) 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 MC NAIR was launched at the Lee & Lamoree shipyard in Oswego, New York on 26 August 1857. Her dimensions were 103 foot keel, 24 foot 6 inch beam and 9 foot 6 inch depth.  

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

 

Saltie hits Duluth ship canal pier

8/25
The 433-foot saltie Vlieborg rubbed the north pier of the Duluth Ship Canal while attempting to leave port Wednesday afternoon. After the incident, the vessel returned to the harbor s anchorage area to undergo inspection by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Witnesses said the ship was lined up for a normal departure when it suddenly veered into the pier.

Damage to both the ship and the canal pier appeared to be limited to rub marks and scratches. A light standard on the canal pier also was topped by the vessel.

Reported by  Al Miller

Boblo boat makes an impact upon its return

8/25
One of the vintage excursion steamboats that ferried passengers to the defunct Boblo Island amusement park returned to the Detroit River waterfront with a bump on Wednesday.

On Wednesday evening, two tugboats maneuvered the Ste. Claire to a dock in River Rouge from Windsor, 4 1/2 miles down the Detroit River. This dock is about 10 miles north of Boblo Island.

The three-story, 197-foot vessel struck the dock, knocking out a 25-foot-long section of stainless steel railing, said Tony Laginess, a River Rouge city commissioner who was aboard at the time. There was no damage to the Ste. Claire, he said.

"The old girl came in at ramming speed. You just don't stop these things on a dime, you know?" laughed Laginess. His city will host the Ste. Claire for public tours and a Halloween-season haunted house dubbed Nautical Nightmare.

The Ste. Claire was built at Toledo in 1910, eight years after its sister ship, the 216-foot Columbia, was built at Detroit. The Ste. Claire and Columbia, with respective passenger capacities of 2,466 and 2,516, carried 600,000 passengers a season from Detroit to Boblo Island in their peak years.

The ships made their last runs in October 1991 and were designated National Historic Landmarks in 1992; the park closed in September 1993. The vessels were at the Great Lakes Steel facility in Ecorse from 1991 to 2001, when the Ste. Claire was bought by John and Diane Belko of Cleveland. They created a foundation to raise money for an estimated 10-year restoration effort.

Boblo Island opened as a recreation area in 1898. In its heyday in the mid-20th Century, the amusement park attracted a million visitors or more each year. Dozens of luxury homes and condominiums have been built on the 272-acre island since a Detroit-area developer purchased it in 1994.

The Columbia remains moored at Ecorse, Laginess said.

The Ste. Claire is docked at Belanger Park. Guided tours will be held Sept. 2-Oct. 31; the Nautical Nightmare will be held nightly Sept. 23-Oct. 31. For more information, go to www.bobloboat.com.

Canal boat set as floating exhibit
The Day Peckinpaugh was the first of its kind - and the last.

8/25
Buffalo - The first motorized Erie Canal freighter ever built is now the only survivor of about 100 such vessels that once hauled heavy loads along New York's canals. Gov. George E. Pataki announced Friday that the boat, undergoing repairs here, has been purchased by the New York State Museum and will be renovated into a floating exhibit and classroom.

Craig Williams, senior historian for the museum, said the vessel will be towed to Peebles Island State Park, north of Albany, next month for a complete overhaul. The craft, 259 feet long and 36 feet wide, is moored along the north wall of the canal between the Tri-Way and Stevens Street bridges. Williams said the museum paid $10,000 for the boat, while the Canal Society of New York State raised $35,000 to tow it from Erie, Pa., to Lockport. Williams said the boat's departure through Locks 34 and 35 will be worth seeing. "A vessel like that probably hasn't gone through the Lockport locks in 60 years," he said. The vessel went through Lockport on its maiden voyage in June 1921 and was greeted with "great fanfare," Williams said.

The museum bought the boat from Erie Navigation of Erie, Pa., a sister company of Erie Sand and Gravel Co., which had owned it since 1958 and used it until 1994, primarily to haul cement from Oswego to Rome. Williams said the vessel was designed for use on the Erie Barge Canal, the enlargement of the original Erie Canal that was finished in 1918. It was built in Duluth, Minn., for Interwaterways Lines of New York City.

Originally called the ILI 101, it was later renamed the Richard J. Barnes. The craft was taken over by the U.S. Merchant Marine during World War II and used to haul coal between East Coast ports before the government sold it to Erie Sand and Gravel. That company renamed it for Day Peckinpaugh, a freight shipper on the Great Lakes. He was the brother of Roger Peckinpaugh, a former player-manager for the New York Yankees.

Courtesy the Buffalo News

 

Lighthouse and Museum Trip

8/25
The Saginaw River Marine Historical Society is planning a bus trip to the Great Lakes Lore Museum, also the Old and New Presque Isle Lighthouses, on September 10. It will be about a 12 hour trip. The group will meet at Meijer’s on Wilder Road in Bay City and leave there at 8:00 am sharp.

The price is $24.00 per person which includes admission to the museum. The bus seats 31 people. To make  reservations please call Carol at 989-684-2816.

Reported by  Maureen Martin

Port Reports - August 25

Marquette by Lee Rowe
The Presque Isle was an unusual visitor to Marquette's ore dock Sunday. She had to load on both sides of the dock.

Wednesday saw the Dorothy Anne/Pathfinder bringing coal and the Lee A. Tregurtha loading ore.

Oshawa by Jim Gallacher
The bulker Iryda left Oshawa stern first at 5.00 p.m. Monday, assisted by the Ocean Tugs Jerry G and Escorte. Iryda was originally destined for Duluth but she was diverted to unload the stranded bulker Ziema Gornoslaska.

The two tugs after leaving the Iryda then assisted the bulker Aleksandre Surovov to dock at Oshawa stern first. Between the two movements the McNally Tug Sandra Mary returned to the McNally dock. Pictures in the News Photo Gallery.

Port Colborne
The saltie Menominee arrived at Wharf 16 (R&P Coal Dock) overnight and has tied up along the east wall next to a large collection of large wooden crates. Several cranes are in attendance and it appears she is to load this freight. Crates appear to be marked "Jacobs Engineering", not sure of source or destination.

Detroit-Windsor
The former Boblo Steamer Ste. Clair was moved from Windsor to Belanger Park down river from Detroit. Pictures in the News Photo Gallery.
 

Photo Gallery Updates - August 25

News Photo Gallery updated
Note: Please be advised that due to the large volume of photos being submitted for inclusion in this gallery and the time constraints involved in handling each submission, only selected photos relating to news stories will be used. Please visit the Public Gallery to upload and share you own trip photos (link below).

Public Photo Gallery
New albums in the Shipping
 

Today in Great Lakes History - August 25

On 25 August 1892, H D COFFINBERRY (wooden propeller freighter, 191 foot, 649 gross tons, built in 1874, at East Saginaw, Michigan) was carrying iron ore from Escanaba to Ashtabula in a fierce NW gale when she grounded on the rocks near Port Hope on Lake Huron.  The crew was rescued by the San Beach Lifesaving crew and the tug ANAPING.  The COFFINBERRY was released five days later and put back in service.

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

On August 25, 1984, the hard luck ROGER M KYES grounded off Mc Louth Steel and ended crosswise in the Detroit River's Trenton Channel. It required lightering into the RICHARD REISS a.) ADIRONDACK and the assistance of nine tugs to refloat her.  Renamed b.) ADAM E CORNELIUS in 1989.

The GEORGE M STEINBRENNER a.) ARTHUR H HAWGOOD arrived at Port Colborne, Ontario 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 foot, 1299 gross tons, built 1880, at Gibraltar, Michigan) 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 foot, 235 gross tons, 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

 

Port Reports - August 24

Alpena by Ben & Chandra McClain
The Paul H. Townsend arrived in port on Monday morning to load cement. Its next stop is Green Bay.WI.

The J.A.W Iglehart made its way to Lafarge around 1:30pm on Tuesday. Following behind the Iglehart was the Cuyahoga, which tied up at the Lafarge coal dock at 2:30pm. The Cuyahoga swung out its self unloader and carefully postitioned the boom into the storage hopper to unload its cargo. The Cuyahoga was outbound in the calm bay by 8:30 p.m. The J.A.W Iglehart departed around 9:00 p.m., heading for South Chicago.

The Steamer Alpena spent Tuesday evening waiting for both vessels to clear the channel so it could come into port to take on cement.

The G.L Ostrander/barge Integrity is expected to arrive at Lafarge sometime Wednesday morning, and the Joseph H. Thompson and the Calumet are also on the schedule for Wednesday.

The Herbert C. Jackson loaded at Stoneport on Tuesday morning, followed by the Great Lakes Trader.

Rogers City by Ben & Chandra McClain
On Friday, at the Rogers City Theatre, many people attended "The Survivors" program sponsored by the Great Lakes Lore Maritime Museum. Frank Mays, Dennis Hale, and Dave Erickson each told their stories of shipwreck survival to a captivated audience. Capt. Muth and Warren Toussaint from the Sundew told of their experience searching for survivors from the Carl D. Bradley and Peter Hahn shared his memories of rescuing saliors from the Cedarville.

Saginaw River by Gordy Garris
On Tuesday, the Saginaw River once again saw three vessels moving along the banks of the river. First was the James Norris who was outbound around 9:00 a.m. moving through the Bay City bridges headed outbound for the lake. On her outbound trip in Bay City she met the inbound Calumet.

The Calumet arrived in the Saginaw River around 9:00 a.m. Tuesday morning and continued upriver to lighter at the Buena Vista Stone dock before continuing upriver to complete unloading at Valley Asphalt dock. She departed from the Valley Asphalt dock around 2:30 p.m. and turned around off the end of the dock in the Sixth Street Turning Basin to head outbound for the lake. She stopped briefly at the Burroughs dock to wait for at least two hours for the inbound Agawa Canyon to pass. The Calumet was outbound clear of the Airport Turning basin by 6:45 p.m. headed outbound for the lake.

The Agawa Canyon was inbound the Saginaw River late Tuesday afternoon with a load of stone for the Buena Vista Stone dock which was just vacated by the Calumet earlier in the day. The Canyon was expected to be outbound the Saginaw River late Tuesday evening or early Wednesday morning.
 

Photo Gallery Updates - August 24

News Photo Gallery updated
Note: Please be advised that due to the large volume of photos being submitted for inclusion in this gallery and the time constraints involved in handling each submission, only selected photos relating to news stories will be used. Please visit the Public Gallery to upload and share you own trip photos (link below).

Public Photo Gallery
New albums in the Shipping, Regional, Lighthouse and Model
 

Today in Great Lakes History - August 24

At 2:00 a.m. on 24 August 1892, the GEORGE N BRADY (wooden propeller tug, 102 foot, 165 gross tons, built in 1865, at Detroit or Marine City, Michigan) was engaged in pulling a raft of logs across Lake St. Clair along with the tug SUMNER. Fire was discovered around the BRADY’s smokestack and he flames quickly spread. The crew was taken off of the stricken vessel by the SUMNER and the BRADY was cut free of the raft. The blazing vessel drifted to the American shore where she sank about three miles north of Grosse Pointe, Michigan. No lives were lost.

LEON SIMARD (Hull#413) was launched August 24, 1974, at Sorel, Quebec by Marine Industries Ltd. for Branch Lines Ltd. Renamed b.) L'ORME NO 1 in 1982. Sold off the lakes in 1997, renamed c.) TRADEWIND OCEAN and d.) AMARA in 2001.

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

The WARD AMES (Hull#518) was launched on August 24, 1907, at West Superior, Wisconsin by Superior Ship Building Co. for the Acme Steamship Co. (Augustus B. Wolvin, mgr.). Renamed b.) C H MC CULLOUGH JR in 1916.

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 steam barge BURLINGTON of 1857, 137 foot, 276 gross tons ex-package freighter, burned to the water's edge in the Straits of Mackinac on August 24, 1895.

On 24 August 1885, IOSCO (wooden schooner-barge, 124 foot, 230 gross tons, built at Alabaster, Michigan 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: Father Dowling Collection, 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
 

Boatnerd Outage

8/23
Boatnerd was down for a time Tuesday due to a cable that was cut, knocking out phone and data services to part of lower central Michigan. Service was returned about 6 p.m.
 

Port Reports - August 23

Port Colborne by Herb
After sailing down bound to Hamilton on Sunday afternoon, Michipicoten returned to Port Colborne where she is loading at Goderich elevator, the former National Harbours Board loading Ontario wheat. This is likely a first and the large vessel has squeezed into the short slip. Saginaw made a quick visit last week to load and then proceeded to back down the canal, it is unknown if she fueled but she sailed up bound the next day.

Saginaw River by Gordy Garris
On Monday, the Saginaw River saw three vessels moving along the banks of the river. The tug Joyce L. VanEnkevort and the barge Great Lakes Trader were first departing from the Saginaw Wirt dock just before 7am and heading upriver to turn around in the Sixth Street Turning Basin to head outbound for the lake. She was outbound clear of the I-75 bridge in Zilwaukee just before 8:00 a.m.

Around the same time, the Walter J. McCarthy Jr. was arriving at the Consumers Power Plant in Essexville to unload coal. She departed from the Consumers Power Plant at 4:00 p.m. and began to back out to Light 12 in the Saginaw Bay to turn around to head outbound for the lake. The McCarthy was contacted by the inbound James Norris and the Norris was told to slow as she neared Light 12 to let the McCarty turn around, then pass her to continue inbound.

The James Norris reached the mouth of the Saginaw River by 6:00 p.m. and began her trip upriver to Saginaw where she would unload. Her security calls did not indicate where she was headed to unload in Saginaw. The Norris is rarely seen on the Saginaw River, but the peak of her visits in a season are in late August. The Norris was down bound from the Sixth Street Turning Basin by 6:00 a.m. Tuesday morning and was outbound at the Airport Turning Basin by 8:00 a.m. headed outbound for the lake.

Coal Trade on the Saginaw River will continue into next week as the Walter J. McCarty Jr. will return on Sunday with more coal for the Consumers Power Plant in Essexville along with the Indiana Harbor next Friday.

 

Second 2005 Soo Freighter Chasing Cruise is a GO!

8/23 - We have been advised that enough people have signed up for the Second Soo Freighter Chasing Cruise on Saturday, Sept. 3, at 6:00 p.m. This is a repeat of our annual trip aboard the Chief Shingwauk leaving from Roberta Bondar Pavilion in Soo, Ontario. Cruise will return at 9:00 p.m. Cost is C$30.00 Canadian or $25.00 US per person. Price includes dinner with a menu to be determined. Cash bar on board.

It is not too late to join your fellow Boatnerds. Make reservations today by calling (705) 253-9850, or 1-877-226-3665 with your credit card, or send your check to Locks Tours Canada Boat Cruises, P.O. Box 23002, Station Mall, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario P6A 6W6. If we fail to get 50 reservations, your check will be returned and no credit cards will be charged.

Details on other Boatnerd Gatherings are available at the Gathering page.

 

Lee Murdoch to Perform at SS City of Milwaukee Annual Meeting

8/23
The S.S. City of Milwaukee annual meeting will be held on Sunday, September 11, 2005. The meeting will take place at 12:30 p.m., and a concert by Lee Murdoch will follow afterwards at 2:00 p.m. Cost for members and/or guests to attend is $10.00 per person to help cover the cost of food and the concert.
For more information please contact Linda Spencer at our office Wednesday-Sunday, or at lspencer@carferry.com

Further information on the Society for the Preservation of the SS City of Milwaukee can be found at http://www.carferry.com
 

Today in Great Lakes History - August 23

On 23 August 1887, GESINE (wooden schooner, 99 gross tons, built in 1853, at Manitowoc, Wisconsin) was carrying lumber in a storm on Lake Michigan. She was shoved up against the breakwater at Michigan City, Indiana and pounded to pieces. The crew and Capt. C. Anderson jumped overboard and clung to the breakwater pilings until rescued.

The GEMINI sailed on her maiden voyage August 23, 1978, from the shipyard to load fuel oil at Baytown, Texas, for delivery at Detroit, Michigan. Sold Canadian and renamed b.) ALGOSAR in 2005.

The wooden-hulled steamer AURORA was launched on August 23, 1887, at Cleveland, Ohio by Murphy & Miller Shipyard for J.J. Corrigan of Cleveland, Ohio.

On August 23, 1979, KINSMAN ENTERPRISE a.) NORMAN B REAM was towed out of the Frog Pond in Toledo, Ohio, having escaped the scrapper's torch, and sold to the Port Huron Seaway Terminal to be used as a storage barge.

On 23 AUG 1887, CLARA (2-mast, wooden scow-schooner) was carrying a load of hardwood lumber bound from Manistee, Michigan for Chicago, Ilinois when she was caught in a storm and capsized. Her hull later washed ashore upside-down near Miller's Station, Indiana.

August 23, 1901 - The PERE MARQUETTE 17 arrived Ludington, Michigan on her maiden voyage with Captain Peter Kilty in command.

On 23 August 1875, PERSIAN (wooden propeller freighter, 1630 tons, built in 1874, at Cleveland, Ohio) caught fire off Long Point on Lake Erie. The propeller EMPIRE STATE came alongside and tried to put out the fire with streams of water from her hose, but when this failed, she took PERSIAN in tow in an attempt to get her to shore. This too failed when the tow line burned through. PERSIAN burned to the waterline and sank 10 miles from land in about 30 fathoms of water. No lives were lost.

On 23 August 1900, ARGONAUT (wooden propeller freighter, 213 foot, 1119 gross tons, built in 1873, at Detroit, Michigan) was raised by an expensive salvage operation at the Escanaba ore dock where she had previously sunk. She lasted another six years.

Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, Max Hanley, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember seriesThis is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history
 

 

Photo Gallery Updates - August 23

News Photo Gallery updated
Note: Please be advised that due to the large volume of photos being submitted for inclusion in this gallery and the time constraints involved in handling each submission, only selected photos relating to news stories will be used. Please visit the Public Gallery to upload and share you own trip photos (link below).

Public Photo Gallery
New albums in the Shipping, Regional, Lighthouse and Model
 

Shipwreck squabble draws French interest

8/22
While the state and a salvage group clash over a possible shipwreck in northern Lake Michigan, France is very interested in sending a team to determine if it is the 17th-century barque Le Griffon, a 326-year-old vessel linked to a famous French explorer. The disclosure by a U.S. State Department official was filed in federal court in Grand Rapids as part of a lawsuit over access to the site.

Some historians consider the Griffon to be the first European ship to sail lakes Erie, Huron and Michigan. It was built for French explorer Rene-Robert Cavelier Sieur de La Salle in 1679. "The French Ministry of Culture is prepared to send a team of three or four experts for eight to 10 days to assist with identification, although the issue of who pays ... remains a question to be resolved," wrote Robert Blumberg of the State Department's Office of Oceans Affairs.

Great Lakes Exploration Group believes it might have found the Griffon between Escanaba in the Upper Peninsula and the St. Martin Islands, which is in Wisconsin waters north of the Door County peninsula. Because of fears of looting, a precise spot in the lake has not been disclosed. In May, Great Lakes Exploration was ordered to share more details so state experts could check the site. Since then, however, both sides have been squabbling over how much to disclose. The state "must be given the precise location. ... Given the rapidly approaching seasonal change and the unpredictability of northern Michigan weather, the parties must move with expedited speed in order to accomplish this investigation," U.S. Chief District Judge Robert Holmes Bell said.

The state, which typically has control over abandoned ships at the bottom of the Great Lakes, has speculated a piece of wood is "barn timber." But if it is the Griffon, and France can prove the ship was sailing under the authority of King Louis XIV in 1679, the French could have rights to the wreck. Blumberg's e-mail expressing France's interest was filed by Great Lakes Exploration. There also is a memo from the French government describing the Griffon's history.

La Salle was one of the earliest French explorers of North America. In 1679, his expedition sailed Le Griffon on Lake Erie, Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. The ship went to Green Bay in the spring of 1679, loaded up with furs, and headed back for Buffalo on Sept. 18 with five crew members. Meanwhile, La Salle and a party of some 30 men went to the mouth of Michigan's St. Joseph River, over a portage to the Kankakee River, down the Kankakee to the Illinois River, then down the Illinois. In January 1680, he built Fort Crevecoeur near the site of Peoria, Ill. While there, he received word that Le Griffon had been lost. Robert de La Salle's trips "were not merely a personal initiative of an intrinsically private nature but required a king's decree," the memo states. The judge, however, said the documents are not relevant at this stage of the case.

La Salle's other ship, La Belle, was discovered in the mid-1990s in Matagorda Bay off the Texas coast. With approval from France, state archaeologists there recovered nearly 1 million artifacts, from human bones to muskets.

From the Muskegon Chronicle

 

American Spirit in Detroit for Repairs

8/22
The American Spirit was assisted by the G tugs Superior and Vermont into Nicholson's Slip Saturday for repairs to her unloading belt. Repairs are expected to be completed by Tuesday, the Spirit will then head upbound to Superior to load.

Reported by Mike Nicholls
 

Six Sailors Jump From Moving Ship

8/22
According to CTV News, Six Turkish sailors jumped from the moving Maltese-flagged Imbat at Champlain, Quebec. Two men made it to shore and a third was rescued by locals. Three others are still missing and the worse is feared. The waters are cold even when the air temperature is high.

Provincial Police detained the three men and were searching for the remaining three. Two more men were taken from Sorel, Quebec, to a doctor in Montreal and never returned to the ship. The ship had loaded steel at Sorel and was heading to Italy. Canada Customs had the ship stop in Quebec City to find who these people were that jumped from the moving vessel.

Transport Canada is suppose to board the ship and see if they can sail with a crew of only 12 men from the original 20. No explanation was given for the exodus of the Turkish sailors, who are seeking refuge status. Authorities say the problem lies within the ship it self.

Reported by K. Malo

Emergency Exercise at Soo Locks

8/22
On Friday, twenty different agencies worked together to practice responding to a radiological release at the Soo Locks last Friday. The Sea Cadet vessel, Pride of Michigan, participated with the Sea Cadets. Oglebay Norton locked through during the exercise and nearly took a Corps of Engineers cart in the hull, but it was saved just in time.

US Coast Guard Sector Sault Ste. Marie coordinated the exercise. Response teams from Chicago (Department of Energy), Augusta MI (Civil Support Team Michigan National Guard) and Lansing (Department of Environmental Quality Waste and Hazardous Materials Division) were on hand to provide expertise.
Reported by Erin Potter

Lake Express Ferry Rescues boater in water

8/22
Milwaukee's high-speed ferry sped to the rescue of a man whose boat had capsized Sunday 20 miles off Wisconsin's coastline in the chilly waters of Lake Michigan. On the Lake Express ferry's morning run from Milwaukee to Muskegon, Mich., the captain spotted a man clinging to debris from his capsized boat, authorities said. The crew plucked the man from the water, and a nurse started medical treatment as the ferry rushed him back to Milwaukee. "He was really lucky that we happened along at this time," Lake Express Capt. Rick Hopper said.

The Associated Press identified the boater as Thomas Drewek, 44. Two other sources also confirmed Drewek by his last name. His medical condition could not be confirmed Sunday.

Hopper said the Lake Express was heading east at its full speed of 34 knots (40 mph) about 6:35 a.m. Sunday when he noticed something a couple of miles away and picked up his binoculars. "I just had a feeling," Hopper said. "It didn't look right." Hopper changed course, put his crew on alert and notified the U.S. Coast Guard's Milwaukee station. As the ferry pulled up alongside the boater, crew members reached into the water and hauled the man aboard, Hopper said. The rescue was completed just 5 or 10 minutes after Hopper first noticed the boater, and then it took about 40 minutes to return to Milwaukee, he said.

Meanwhile, the cabin crew had explained the situation to passengers and asked whether anyone had medical training. They found a nurse, Teri Young of Rochester, Minn., ferry spokesman Jeff Fleming said. Crew members carried the boater to the crew mess, where Young started treating him for hypothermia, Hopper said. The man's body temperature had fallen to 92 degrees Fahrenheit, Hopper said. Although the water temperature was 63 degrees, it would feel like 48 degrees to a person in the water, Milwaukee Fire Department Battalion Chief Steven Gleisner said.

The boater first told the crew that he had been in the water for 48 hours, but he "wasn't real coherent" and it seemed unlikely he had survived that long, Hopper said. Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Robert Napp said the man had been in the water for 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Other passengers donated clothing to the boater, Hopper said. And when Young learned the boater was diabetic, a fellow passenger hurried to his motorcycle and brought her his own diabetes testing kit so she could monitor the boater's blood sugar, Hopper said. By the time the ferry reached Milwaukee, "his temperature was up and he was feeling good," Gleisner said. "The hypothermia had abated."

However, the boater was not able to walk off the ferry, and the crew took him ashore in a wheelchair, Capt. Hopper said. The Fire Department then took him to St. Francis Hospital for treatment, Gleisner said. A St. Francis spokeswoman did not return calls seeking information about the boater. Capt. Hopper identified the boater's vessel as a 22-foot Sea Ray. Napp said the power boat had capsized after a wave washed over the stern. The boat had not been salvaged as of Sunday afternoon, and the Coast Guard was broadcasting warnings to other boaters to avoid running into it, Napp said.

Passengers remained calm during the incident and complimented the crew for its professional handling of the rescue, Hopper said. Because the rescue delayed the morning round trip, the ferry canceled its midday round trip, Fleming said.

Although this was the first time the Lake Express rescued anyone, it's the second time in a week that the ferry has changed course to come to the aid of other mariners, and the third time in a month that it has been involved in a rescue, Fleming said. On Tuesday, the ferry crew spotted waterspouts, somewhat similar to tornadoes on water, heading toward a group of kayakers who were paddling across the lake as part of an American Cancer Society fund-raiser. In that case, the ferry checked to make sure the kayakers were safe, but other boats had taken them aboard.

A few weeks ago, the ferry crew saw a flare and reported it to the Coast Guard's station in Grand Rapids, Mich., Fleming said. That turned out to be a distress signal that led to a Coast Guard rescue, he said. The Lake Express didn't encounter any similar incidents last year, its first season.

Reported by Paul Erspamer, from the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel
 

Toronto-Rochester Ferry crashes into Toronto gangway

8/21
The fast ferry crashed into the gangway at the Port of Toronto Sunday evening, according to witnesses and a Bay Ferries official. Several windows were blown out, and a scratch is visible above the Cat logo, according to passengers who witnessed the event. No one was hurt.

Passengers reported the ship's walkway was inoperable and they loaded for the return trip to Rochester through the car ramp. The ship was on target to depart Toronto around 8:30 p.m., an hour and a half behind schedule.

Don Cormier, vice president of Bay Ferries, says a "master-in-training" was at the controls when the mishap occurred. he said his inexperience was "likely" a factor in the accident.

Courtesy WROC-TV

8/22 - Additional information from RNews.com
Rochester's fast ferry returned to service on time and on schedule this morning, after a mishap in Canada left the vessel with three broken windows Sunday.
As the ferry pulled into the Port of Toronto Sunday evening the ferry hit the gangway at the port. The collision broke three windows on the boat near the front part of the vessel. Due to the damage, the ferry's return trip to Rochester was delayed. "The Cat" pulled into the Port of Rochester just before 11:00 p.m. Sunday. The boat usually returns around 9:30 p.m. Monday morning, the ferry took off for Toronto at 8am, right on schedule. Crews spent the overnight working to replace the glass broken in the mishap. Sunday night, crews boarded up the windows, for the trip back to Rochester.
R News spoke with Dan Schiavone by phone after the accident. He was one of the passengers waiting to board the ferry. He said that the only damage he saw was the damage to the windows and some small scratches. He said that no one was hurt, but the crowd was a little anxious.
“The room is very loud and people are a bit anxious. They're disappointed there are some delays in their transportation. For the most part, people seem to be okay with it," said Schiavone. “I'm disappointed, I guess. I have a certain degree of sympathy for the fast ferry. They certainly had a lot of bad luck.”
Schiavone said that passengers were told windy weather may have caused the accident. Passengers also were told to either wait for the repairs or find an alternative way to get to Rochester. Bay Ferries, the ferry operator, will reimburse them.
This is now the third mishap for the Spirit of Ontario. In April last year, the ferry suffered a gash while pulling into a New York City pier. That's when the ferry first arrived to New York from Australia where the ship was built. The accident ended up delaying the launch of the ferry service.
In May, while in a dry dock in St. Catherines, Canada, the ferry slipped off some blocks while crews were getting ready to do some work on the ship to prepare it for its re-launch date. That mishap did not damage the boat.

 

Port Reports - August 22

Escanaba/Marquette by Scott Best
Sunday was a cool day in the UP with temperatures that felt more like late fall than late summer. Around 11:00 a.m. the Arthur M. Anderson arrived at Escanaba with a load of coal for the C. Reiss Dock. In Marquette under grey skies the Presque Isle was taking on a rare load or ore for delivery to Nanticoke, ON. The Presque Isle is the first 1000 footer to load in Marquette in a very long time.

Toronto by Charlie Gibbons
CSL Niagara departed with coal this afternoon. The James Norris went back into service on the 19th. There was lots of black smoke coming from her on the 18th. Canadian Ranger was down bound in the canal Sunday night and expected in Toronto with raw sugar for Redpath on Sept. 7th.

Saginaw River by Stephen Hause
Invincible-McKee Sons delivered material to three docks along the Saginaw River on Sunday. The tug-barge arrived early in the morning at the Wirt Stone Dock in Bay City. After lightering there, the vessel continued up the river to the Burroughs dock near the I-75 bridge. The Invincible's third stop was the Buena Vista Dock a short distance further up the river. Invincible-McKees Sons was outbound early Sunday evening.

Paul H. Townsend, which arrived Saturday at the LaFarge cement terminal in Saginaw, was outbound late Sunday afternoon.

Joyce L. VanEnkevort-Great Lakes Trader arrived early Sunday evening at the Wirt Stone Dock in Bay City.

Oshawa by Jim Gallacher
Petite Forte and the Barge St Marys Cement docked at the Port of Oshawa on August 18 and departed the following day. It appears that the Petite Forte had docked to avoid bad weather conditions.

The bulker Iryda called at Oshawa on Sunday, unloading steel products after arriving from Sorrel Quebec. She will be leaving Oshawa on Monday afternoon heading for Duluth.

Milwaukee by Paul Erspamer
Milwaukee's inner harbor turning basin was a busy place Monday morning. The Middletown unloaded coal at the Greenfield Avenue We Energies site. The Alpena offloaded at the LaFarge silo while the tug G.L.Ostrander and barge Integrity had to wait in line. They were moored to the wall in brisk winds.

 

Photo Gallery Updates - August 22

News Photo Gallery updated
Note: Please be advised that due to the large volume of photos being submitted for inclusion in this gallery and the time constraints involved in handling each submission, only selected photos relating to news stories will be used. Please visit the Public Gallery to upload and share you own trip photos (link below).

Public Photo Gallery
New albums in the Shipping, Regional, Lighthouse and Model
 

Today in Great Lakes History - August 22

On 22 August 1898, the schooner FANNY CAMPBELL (wooden schooner, 404 tons, built in 1868, at St. Catherines, Ontario) ran ashore near Johnston’s harbor in Georgian Bay.  She was sailing light on her way for a load of cordwood.

The ALGOPORT left Collingwood Ontario, August 22, 1979, on her maiden voyage for Calcite, Michigan to load limestone bound for Spragge, Ontario.

The R. L. IRELAND (Hull#62) was launched August 22, 1903, at Chicago, Illinois by Chicago Ship Building Co. for the Gilchrist Transportation Co. Renamed  b.) SIRIUS in 1913, and c.) ONTADOC in 1926.

The ENDERS M VOORHEES was towed out of Duluth, Minnesota on August 22, 1987, by the tugs AVENGER IV and CHIPPEWA, and was the first of the 'Supers' towed off the Lakes for scrap.

The ROGER M. KYES sailed on her maiden voyage on August 22,1973, from Toledo, Ohio to load iron ore at Escanaba, Michigan. She was built under Title XI of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. This program allowed U.S. shipping companies to construct new vessels or to modernize their existing fleet by government guaranteed financing and tax deferred benefits. The KYES was the second of ten ships launched for American Steamship but the first to enter service under this arrangement. The total cost of the ten ships was more than $250 million.  Renamed b.) ADAM E CORNELIUS in 1989.

On 22 August 1863, WILLIAM S BULL (wooden propeller steam tug, 16 tons, built in 1861, at Buffalo, New York) waterlogged and went down in a storm 40 miles east of Erie, Pennsylvania. She was in company of the tug G W GARDNER and the canal boat M E PAINE, who saved her crew.

On 22 August 1876, the Canadian schooner LAUREL sank off Big Sandy Creek on Lake Ontario. The crew made it to shore in the yawl. The LAUREL was bound from Kingston, Ontario to Charlotte, New York with iron ore.

On 22 August 1900, SPECULAR (wooden propeller freighter, 264 foot, 1742 gross tons, built in 1882, at Cleveland, Ohio) was carrying iron ore when she was a "hit & run" victim by the steamer DENVER at 2:00 a.m. and sank in 6 minutes in the Pelee Passage on Lake Erie. Fifteen of her crew abandoned in her yawl and were saved. The remaining five scrambled up into the rigging and clung there until they were rescued four hours later by the steamer MARITANA and brought to Detroit. Salvagers worked on the wreck continuously until they gave up on 28 September. Wreck lies 3.16 miles SE from Pelee Passage light. She was owned by Republic Iron Co. of Cleveland.

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

Third-quarter U.S. steel profits flame out
The steel industry trims its output as demand grows sluggish after record earnings a year ago.

8/21
U.S. steel mills have trimmed production, but continue to slog through a quarter that many companies say will be the low point of the year and a dramatic drop from the third quarter of 2004, when the market hit what many now see as an artificial high. Six weeks into the third quarter, steelmakers are struggling to balance lower prices and still-sluggish demand for their products with the soaring costs of scrap and natural gas.

"The horse race at this time will be keeping selling prices ahead of the cost of operations," says Harry Page, president of West Virginia's Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel Corp. Key industry players, including Netherlands-based Mittal Steel Co., Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel and North Carolina's Nucor Corp., have all warned investors to expect a drop in third-quarter results, and analyst Charles Bradford says some companies could report profits 30 percent to 100 percent below the same period last year.

"Last year's third quarter was the best the industry ever had. There were companies who made as much in a year in their prior histories as they made that quarter," says Bradford, of New York's Bradford Research-Soleil Securities Corp. "This is going to be a terrible third quarter."

But Mark Parr, a steel analyst with KeyBanc Capital Markets in Cleveland, says producers could see a fourth-quarter rebound if prices rise as expected in September, if demand climbs as projected and if domestic producers "maintain supply discipline" rather than quickly ramping up production.

Steel prices skyrocketed last summer, driving up the cost of everything from cars and tractors to home appliances. But those record prices and the rampant buying turned out to be a bubble, with steel users building up inventory in hopes of waiting out further price increases, then holding back on new orders. Nor did consumers see any short-term benefit when the prices began to drop.

"When you're talking about cars or washing machines or whatever, those people are buying steel a year forward or more," says Robert Crandall, steel industry expert and senior fellow at The Brookings Institution, a research group in Washington, D.C. At best, price fluctuations might appear a year or two later, he said. But other market factors help keep prices high, including the rising costs of oil and energy. "You're going to have a tough time picking up effects in month-to-month or even year-to-year movement of steel prices," Crandall says.

With full warehouses of their own and few new orders coming, steelmakers responded to the inventory buildup by curtailing production. Page, at Wheeling-Pitt, said 32 blast furnaces were operating in the United States in June 2004; one year later, only 23 were still firing. That's the fewest since a nationwide steel strike in 1959, when only 19 furnaces were in operation. "So the degree to which integrated producers cut back is really unprecedented," he said. Though China had purchased massive amounts of U.S.-made steel in 2003, that buying didn't continue in 2004. Instead, the Chinese looked to Europe and other producers with lower costs as they supplemented their own rapidly growing industry.

Reported in the Detroit News

 

Today is the Last Day to Make Reservations
August 21 the last day to sign up for the
Second 2005 Soo Locks Open House and Freighter Chasing Cruise

8/20
Saturday - Sept. 3 - 6:00 p.m. - Annual Boatnerd Freighter Chasing Cruise-Part II. This is a repeat of our annual trip aboard the Chief Shingwauk leaving from Roberta Bondar Pavilion in Soo, Ontario. Cruise will return at 9:00 p.m. Cost is C$30.00 Canadian or $25.00 US per person. Price includes dinner with a menu to be determined. Cash bar on board.

We must have a minimum of fifty (50) paid reservations by August 21 in order to have this cruise. Make reservations by calling (705) 253-9850, or 1-877-226-3665 with your credit card, or send your check to Locks Tours Canada Boat Cruises, P.O. Box 23002, Station Mall, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario P6A 6W6. If we fail to get 50 reservations, your check will be returned and no credit cards will be charged.

Details on other Boatnerd Gatherings are available at the Gathering page.

 

 

Port Reports - August 21

8/21 - Toronto by Charlie Gibbons
The Toronto Port Authority held its annual general meeting Tuesday and announced that they will buy a new $5 million ferry in an attempt to attract new carriers to the City Centre Airport which they operate at a $2.7 million loss annually. The new ferry is due to be delivered next August and will carry 100 passengers on the enclosed upper deck, the same number as the existing ferry, which dates to the 1940's.

On Wednesday, Ziemia Gnieznienska departed Redpath early for the canal and Stephen B. Roman departed as well. Fair Jeanne departed around 20:00 for Buffalo.

On Thursday, Federal Matane arrived at Pier 52.

Saturday the yacht Sea Kids Six went on Toronto Drydock. CSL Niagara is back in port loading more coal from the defunct Lakeview Generating Station. Stephen B. Roman came in around 11 p.m.
 

8/21 - Saginaw River by Todd Shorkey
The Paul H. Townsend was inbound the Saginaw River Saturday evening headed up the river for the LaFarge Dock in Carrollton to unload cement. She is expected outbound late Sunday.

8/21 - Alpena by Ben & Chandra McClain
The Paul H. Townsend arrived in port to load early Saturday morning. The Townsend was outbound in the bay by 7 a.m. heading for Saginaw. The Steamer Alpena was at Lafarge on Friday night and is expected to be in Milwaukee on Sunday. The J.A.W. Iglehart came in on Thursday to take on cargo, and will be making one of its infrequent trips to Superior, WI and Heron Bay, ON.

The G. L. Ostrander/barge Integrity was in port on Wednesday morning and has since made stops in Waukegan and South Chicago.
The Great Lakes Trader was loading at Stoneport Saturday night. The Joseph H. Thompson was on the schedule for Sunday.
 

Photo Gallery Updates - August 21

News Photo Gallery updated
Note: Please be advised that due to the large volume of photos being submitted for inclusion in this gallery and the time constraints involved in handling each submission, only selected photos relating to news stories will be used. Please visit the Public Gallery to upload and share you own trip photos (link below).

Public Photo Gallery
New albums in the Shipping and Other/Off Topic
 

Today in Great Lakes History - August 21

At 7:10 p.m. on 21 August 1901, the whaleback steamer ALEXANDER Mc DOUGALL (steel propeller modified whaleback freighter, 413 foot, 3686 gross tons, built in 1898, at W. Superior, Wisconsin) ran into and cut in two the tug GEORGE STAUBER (wooden propeller tug, 55 foot, 43 gross tons, built in 1883, at Buffalo, New York) in the rapids at the mouth of the St. Clair River. The STAUBER sank immediately in about 60 feet of water. No lives were lost. The steam barge IDA assisted in retrieving people in the water. The MC Dougall did not stop.

The BUFFALO's sea trials were conducted from August 21 through August 24, 1978.The GEORGE A STINSON was christened at Detroit, Michigan on August 21, 1978.

The CEDARGLEN a.) WILLIAM C ATWATER arrived under tow at Port Maitland, Ontario on August 21, 1994, where she was scrapped.

THE HARVESTER cleared Lorain, Ohio, August 21, 1911, on her maiden voyage loaded with coal for Duluth, Minnesota.

IMPERIAL QUEBEC (Hull#161) was launched August 21, 1957, at Collingwood, Ontario by Collingwood Shipyards Ltd. for Imperial Oil Ltd.

The KINSMAN INDEPENDENT a.) WILLIAM B KERR, encountered steering problems downbound at the Rock Cut in the St. Marys River on August 21, 1973. She avoided hitting the stone embankments but ran aground after clearing the cut. The damage sustained in this grounding ended her career.

The VENUS was sold to Acme Metals Inc. and was towed to Ashtabula, Ohio on August 21, 1975, where she was broken up in 1976.

On August 21, 1971, the CHARLES DICK severed two underwater cables in the Maumee River, cutting off power to east Toledo and the Cherry Street Bridge. Massive traffic jams developed on Toledo's streets.

The graceful schooner HUNTER SAVIDGE was launched on August 21, 1879, by the Grand Haven Ship Building Company.

On 21 August 1856, CHARTER (wooden, propeller vessel, 132 foot, 197 tons, built in 1849, at Huron, Ohio as a sidewheeler), was bound from Cleveland for Buffalo with flour, oats and rye. She swamped and sank in a storm 6 miles above Fairport, Ohio. By the end of August, she had been damaged beyond repair but her machinery was recovered as she lay in relatively shallow water.

On 21 August 1861, BANSHEE (wooden propeller freighter, 119 foot, 166 tons, built in 1852, at Portsmouth, Ontario, named HERO in 1860-61) was carrying wheat, flour and butter to Montreal when her engine failed (broken shaft) and she was helpless in a storm on Lake Ontario. She foundered near Timber Island on Lake Ontario. One passenger died, but the crew of 10 made it to Timber Island. She was owned by Howard & Rowe of Quebec.

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

Algonorth Suffers Engine Room Fire

Shortly after 5:00 a.m. Friday morning the Algonorth contacted Thunder Bay Coast Guard Radio to report that they had an engine room blackout caused by a fire affecting three electrical panels. They are powerless and drifting awaiting tug assistance. The fire was put out with extinguishers and there was no other damage or injuries to any of the 22 crew members on board.

The ship was forced to drop anchor around 6:45 a.m. as she was drifting toward Pie Island. The tug Robert John, owned by Gravel & Lake Services Ltd., arrived about an hour later and took the vessel in tow to Keefer Terminal where repairs will be made.

Reported by Tom Stewart

 

Port Reports - August 20

8/18 - Marquette by Lee Rowe
Thursday was a very busy day in Marquette. The Wolverine brought stone to the lower harbor Shiras dock while the James R. Barker brought coal to the upper harbor WE power plant. The Canadian Leader left with her load and the Canadian Miner took her place at the dock. The Miner dropped a bow anchor before reaching the dock and pulled it back up after getting tied up.

The Lee A. Tregurtha arrived and had to wait for the Barker before she could go to her side of the dock, so pulled in behind the Miner until the Barker pulled out into the harbor while the coal pile was moved. The Lee A. then moved to the south side and began loading, while the Barker anchored.

8/19 - Marquette by Rod Burdick
Canadian Miner loaded ore on a gloomy Friday morning. It was her second Marquette visit of 2005. Miner departed around noon.

Anchored off the Upper Harbor was Herbert C. Jackson waiting for James R. Barker to complete unloading coal. Barker's unload was suspended Thursday evening to allow Lee A. Tregurtha to load ore.

8/19 - Buffalo - by Brian Wroblewski
The English River was unloading at the LaFarge dock this afternoon and the Courtney Burton is currently on her way across the lake for Buffalo at 5:00 p.m. The Tall Ship Fair Jeanne was sitting i