Great Lakes & Seaway Shipping News Archive

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* Report News


St. John Returns

09/30
The sand sucker J.S. St. John was returned under tow to Port Weller Dry Docks Saturday morning. It is unknown if this is related to the repairs that were done recently by the drydock.

J.S. St. John in the Welland Canal in August. Alex Howard

Reported by: Jason Junge




Painting Fuels Rumors

09/30
Painting on the straight deck bulk freighter Kinsman Enterprise is fueling rumors that the ship may have been sold for scrap. The Enterprise has been in lay-up at Buffalo since December 1995. The word "Kinsman" in Kinsman Enterprise has been pained off the stern of the ship and the "S" markings have also been removed from the stack.

Reported by: Brian Wroblewski




Port Huron Traffic

09/30
Below are images of traffic on the St. Clair River Saturday.

Buckeye at Buoys 1 & 2.
Canadian Venture unloading at Sarnia.
LeLevant downbound at Port Huron.

Reported by: Roger LeLievre




Detroit Traffic

09/30
Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Saturday morning.

Barge A410 & Rebecca Lynn downbound at Grassy Island.
Close up of Rebecca Lynn.
Stern view.
Tug Curly B downbound at Grassy Island bound for Cleveland.
Stern view.
Algobay loading at Ojibway Salt.
Stern view.
Tug Champion & barge D2006 & D2007 upbound at Grassy Island.
Stern view.
Close up of the Champion.
Stern view of tug.

Reported by: Mike Nicholls




Toledo News

09/30
The CSL Laurentien was at Andersons "K" Elevator loading a grain cargo. The passenger vessel Ste. Claire remains in drydock at the Shipyard.

The John G. Munson finished loading coal and departed the CSX Dock Saturday morning. The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the Algosteel and Algowood today. The next scheduled ore boat due in is the Buckeye on Saturday, Oct. 6. There were no other vessels in port at the time of this report.

Classic views of Toledo Shipping
The Henry Steinbrenner inbound Maumee Bay in 1976. Note the Bi-Centennial color scheme on the forward cabins.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman




Reiss in Erie

09/30
The Richard Reiss entered Erie Saturday at 1:00 pm with a load for the Mounfort Terminal.

Reiss inbound.
Stern view.

Reported by: Jeff Thoreson




Today in Great Lakes History - September 30

The 660 ft. forward section of the a)BELLE RIVER (b) WALTER J. McCARTHY, JR.) was side launched on September 30, 1976.

The ARTHUR SIMARD entered service on September 30, 1973 sailing to Montreal, Que. to load gasoline.

The GOVERNOR MILLER was towed down the Welland Canal on September 30, 1980 in tow of TUG MALCOLM, STORMONT and ARGUE MARTIN on her way to Quebec City.

The ROBERT C. STANLEY departed light on her maiden voyage from River Rouge on September 30, 1943 bound for Two Harbors, MN. to load iron ore.

On September 30, 1986 the Canadian Coast Guard vessel CARIBOU ISLE struck a rock in Lake Huron's North Channel and began taking on water. CCG SAMUEL RISLEY arrived and helped patch the ship. The pair the departed for Parry Sound.

On 30 September 1888, AUSTRALIA (wooden schooner, 109’, 159GT, built in 1862 at Vermilion, OH) was carrying cedar posts from Beaver Island to Chicago when she encountered a gale. She was laid on beam ends and sprung a leak. She headed for shelter at Holland, MI, but struck a bar and foundered in the mouth of the harbor. The wreck blocked the harbor until it was removed on 5 October. Her crew was rescued by the U.S. Lifesaving Service.

On 30 September 1875, AMERICAN CHAMPION (wooden scow-schooner, 156 t, built in 1866 at Trenton, Michigan) dropped anchor to ride out a gale near Leamington, Ontario on Lake Erie. The chains gave way and she struck a bar and sank to the gunwales. The crew of 8 spent the night in the rigging and the next day a local woman and her two sons heroically rescued each one.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, 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




Tadoussac Stops for Bridge

09/29 9:00 a.m. Update
Around noon Friday the CSL Tadoussac was stopped waiting for the Glendale Ave. vertical lift bridge. A truck ran the red light and was caught behind the west side road barriers. The ship was advised well in advance and was fully aware of the situation. As per procedures the Tadoussac stopped well behind the Limit of Approach sign, which is located 200 feet from the bridge, and dropped both anchors to maintain her position until the truck was moved.

Shipping traffic in the canal coordinates passing through bridges using a combination of radio, whistle and lighted signals.

Reported by: David Swain




St. John Towed

09/29
In a surprising move, the sand sucker J.S. St. John was towed from Erie at daybreak Friday by the tug Ohio. The pair were headed to an unknown destination.

Reported by: Jeff Thoreson




Toledo News

09/29
The CSL Niagara was loading coal at the CSX Docks and was expected to depart Friday afternoon. The next coal vessels due in at the CSX Docks will be the John G. Munson today, followed by the Algosteel on Sunday. the next scheduled ore boat due in at the Torco Dock will be the Buckeye on Friday, Oct. 5. The passenger vessel Ste Claire remains in drydock at the Shipyard. No other vessels are in port at the time of this report.

Classic views of Toledo Shipping
Irvin L. Clymer at the Consolidated Dock getting ready to unload a salt cargo. The transfer vessel W.C. Richardson is in the background.
Thornhill getting ready to load grain at the Midstates Elevator.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman




Busy day in Conneaut

09/29
Four vessels were in Conneaut Friday, all to load coal. The Algolake was loading and departed at 3:30 p.m. After she left the Canadian Enterprise entered and tied up at the ore dock ahead of the Frontenac. The Armco was unloading stone and then would wait to load coal.

Algolake loading.
Algolake squeezes past Frontenac and Armco.
Another view.
Canadian Enterprise, Armco and Frontenac in Conneaut.
Enterprise.
Stern view.
Armco.
Frontenac loading.
Close up.
Stern view.

Reported by: Jeff Thoreson




Hamilton Report

09/29
Friday afternoon, the Canadian Leader was unloading iron ore at Dofasco while being refueled by the Hamilton Energy. The ferry Trillium is in Heddles Dry Dock.

The Mapleglen is being loaded at JRI facilities at Pier 25 and has been there since the previous day. There appears to be no sign of picketing by any of the deck officers over their contract.

The Canadian Provider is still rafted to the Windoc. There is no sign of any activity on the Windoc. All pumps and cranes have been removed off deck.

The tug Anglian Lady and barge PML 2501 transited through the Burlington Ship Canal at 4:40 p.m. into Hamilton Harbor.

Reported by: Patricia Burgon




Toronto Update

09/29
The saltie Mackenzie began unloading at Redpath Sugar Friday. The tug Kenteau has been busy working off the R. C. Harris water filtration plant.

The sidewheel steam ferry Trillium was dry docked Friday in Hamilton along with the Picton-Glenora ferry Quinte Loyalist.

Reported by: Gerry O.




Dossin museum to air film on salvage

09/29
The film "Salvage of Sidney Smith" will be shown from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle in Detroit. Call (313) 852-4051 for information.




Today in Great Lakes History - September 29

PIERSON INDEPENDENT was launched September 29, 1906 as a) J.H. SHEADLE (1), US.203628, for the Grand Island Steamship Co. (Cleveland-Cliffs Iron Co., Cleveland, OH., mgr.)

HENRY FORD II, 70, of Grosse Pointe, Michigan, passed away on September 29, 1987. Mr Ford's namesake was the Ford Motor Company self-unloader.

On September 29, 1986 the Polish tug KORAL left Lauzon, Quebec with the JOHN E.F. MISENER and GOLDEN HIND enroute overseas for scrapping.

September 29, 1892 - The ANN ARBOR NO. 1 was launched.

On 29 September 1872, ADRIATIC (3 mast wooden schooner-barge, 139’, 129NT, built in 1865 at Clayton, NY as a bark) was in tow of the tug MOORE along with three other barges in Lake Erie in a heavy gale. She became separated from the tow and foundered. The entire crew of 7 was lost. The wooden schooner DERRICK was used in salvage operations. On 29 September 1854, she had just positioned herself above the wreck of the steamer ERIE off Silver Creek, NY on Lake Erie when she went down in a gale. She had spent the summer trying to salvage valuables from the wreck of the steamer ATLANTIC.

On 29 September 1900, one hundred years ago, the steamer SAKIE SHEPARD was re-launched at Anderson’s shipyard in Marine City. She had been thoroughly rebuilt there during the summer.

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




Busy Day on the Saginaw River

09/28
The Wolverine passed the Front Range shortly after 8:00 a.m. Thursday, on her way up to the Wirt stone dock in Saginaw. The Sam Laud departed the Saginaw Rock Products dock at about 3:00 a.m. Thursday, about the same time the Paul H. Townsend was arriving at the Lafarge cement terminal.

On her outbound trip, the Laud apparently tied up for a couple of hours at the Sargent dock below the I-75 Bridge. The reason for the stop was not clear, but the vessel occasionally meets a fuel truck at that dock. Due to bridge hours in Bay City, the Laud was delayed further. She was permitted through the Lafayette Street Bridge just at 7:30 a.m., then tied up at Bay Aggregates to await opening of the next three bridges.

The downbound Sam Laud met the upbound Wolverine at the Dow Chemical Dock, passing at 9:10 a.m. After unloading the Wolverine was back downbound passing through Bay City in the early evening hours.

The Saginaw was upbound for the Saginaw Asphalt/GM Dock passing the Liberty Bridge around 7:00 p.m. She met the downbound Wolverine at the Bay Aggregates Dock on her way up to Saginaw.

The barge Great Lakes Trader and tug Joyce L. Van Enkevort followed the Saginaw into the river about an hour later. She waited at the Consumers Energy Dock for the Wolverine to pass before heading up to the Burrough's Dock.

The barge Pathfinder and tug Dorothy Ann gave a security call passing the pump out island late Thursday night.

Pictures by Todd Shorkey
Wolverine upbound at Smith Park in Essexville.
Close up.
Stern View.
Approaching the Downbound Sam Laud.
Wolverine & Sam Laud Passing.
Laud close up.
Sam Laud, Wolverine & Tall Ship Appledore.
Laud stern view.
Saginaw upbound at Wheeler's Landing.
Saginaw close up.
Saginaw Stern View at Liberty Bridge.

Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey




Algorail Unloads

09/27
The Algorail arrived overnight Thursday and unloaded her cargo of salt at Verplank. She had completed the unload and was turning around at 7:00 a.m. After churning up considerable mud, she was heading for Lake Michigan by 7:40 a.m.

Reported by: Bob Vande Vusse




Theodore Too stops in Erieau

09/28

Theodore Too made a stop in Erieau, Ontario Thursday much to the delight of the children in the village. The tug will stop in Port Dover, Ontario Sunday as it makes its way back to the eastern seaboard.

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

Pictures by Dave Parker
At dock.
Another view.

Reported by: T. Parker




News from the Straits

09/28
Thursday in the Straits of Mackinac all of the ships that had dropped anchor to wait out the weather have departed. Traffic was heavy in the morning, with a several thousand 1000-footers, including Edgar B. Speer making the passage through the Straits of Mackinac.

The cruise boat LeLevant tied up at the Arnold Ferry dock. The catamaran Mackinac Express was dwarfed by her presence. The cruise ship c. Columbus was anchored off shore and one of her tenders was docked at the former Straits Transit Inc. dock.

LeLevant at dock.
c Columbus lit up while anchoring east of Round Island.
c Columbus' tender.
Edgar B. Speer passing.
Arnold Line's newest boat, Mackinac Islander, the former Drummond Islander.

Reported by: Sean Whelan




Officers picket Mapleglen in Port Stanley

09/28
Six deck officers, locked out of their jobs aboard the Mapleglen as the result of a labor dispute, picketed Tuesday as the freighter loaded grain in Port Stanley, Ontario,

The six are members of the Canadian Merchant Service Guild. Trevor Carter, spokesman for the pickets, said they were locked out Sept. 22 when the boat docked in Windsor. Mapleglen is owned by Canada Steamship Lines.

The officers are seeking a contract that would give them parity with other marine unions. Carter said a chief cook on a freighter makes about as much as a third mate. Most other unionized crew members are members of the Seafarers International Union.

The issue is complicated because it’s the first time the guild has had to negotiate with each fleet owner separately. “They are trying to use this to get a precedent-setting decision,” Carter said.

To make up for the offiers’ absence, the Mapleglen and its fleet mate Oakglen are using retired masters and “non-union mates”, Carter said. The Mapleglen’s captain told a reporter that his boat has enough crew members.

Some of deck officers were going to take their pickets to Hamilton, Ont., the next port for the Mapleglen. Others will be going to Owen Sound and Goderich, where the Oakglen is scheduled to load grain.

Reported by: Mark Bain




Mississagi passes Detroit

09/28
Below are images of Mississagi on the Detroit River Thursday.

Mississagi downbound at Grassy Island.
Stern view.

Reported by: Mike Nicholls




Toledo Update

09/28
The Algowood was loading coal at the CSX Docks and was expected to depart Thursday morning. She was expected to be followed by the Arthur M. Anderson and the CSL Niagara due in later that afternoon.

The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the John G. Munson today followed by the Algowood and Algosteel on Sunday.

The next scheduled ore boat due in at the Torco Docks will be the Buckeye on Friday, Oct. 5. The passenger vessel Ste. Claire remains in drydock at the Shipyard. There were no other vessels in port at the time of this report.

Reported by: Jim Hoffman




Great Lakes Maritime Academy Open House

09/28
The Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Traverse City will host and open house Saturday, October 6 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.

During the open house you will have the opportunity to:

  • Pilot a 730' Great Lakes Ship in the St. Marys River on our Ship Handling Simulator
  • Watch cadets monitor and run the power plant of a Steam or Diesel powered ship on our Engine Simulator
  • View the training vessels: M/V Northwestern and tug, Anchor Bay
  • Talk with faculty and staff members about your opportunities at the Academy
  • Ask current cadets about their experiences aboard ships during sea projects
  • Talk with faculty members who sailed as Officers last summer about their experiences

    Click here for more information




    • Today in Great Lakes History - September 28

    On September 28, 1980, the Burns Harbor entered service, departing Sturgeon Bay bound for Superior to load pellets.

    THOMAS WILSON left Toledo on September 28, 1997 in tow of the tug TUSKER for overseas scrapping. WILSON has been laid up since December 16, 1979.

    On 28 September 1891, THOMAS PARSONS (2 mast wooden schooner, 135’, 350T, built in 1868 at Charlotte, NY) was carrying coal out of Ashtabula, OH when she foundered in a storm a few miles off Fairport, OH in Lake Erie.

    On 28 September 1849, W. G. BUCKNER (wooden schooner, 75', 107 t, built in 1837 at Irving, NY) was carrying lumber in a storm on Lake Michigan when she sprang a leak, then capsized. The man to whom the cargo belonged was aboard with his wife and five children. One child was washed overboard while the wife and three children died of exposure. The schooner ERWIN took off the survivors plus the bodies.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Dave 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




    Cornelius Returns to Service

    09/27
    In a surprise move the Adam E. Cornelius departed her lay-up berth at the CSX #1 Dock in Toledo about 6:00 p.m. Wednesday and was reported to be heading for Stoneport to load a stone cargo. The Cornelius entered lay-up on May 1 and was expected to sit out the rest of the 2001 season.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman and Wade Streeter




    Laurentien Departs

    09/27
    The CSL Laurentien departed Port Weller Dry Docks early Wednesday morning after repairs to her stern following a grounding in early September.

    Reported by: Jason Junge




    Trader Moved

    09/27
    The Canadian Trader departed Montreal Wednesday morning for Trois-Rivières, section 16 under tow of the tug Duga and Avantage. Section 16 is leased from the Port of Trois-Rivières to a subsidiary of Upper Lakes Shipping.

    The Trader will be used for grain storage, the arrest of the South Korean tug Headong Star No. 99 has delayed the tow of the Trader for scrapping over seas. The vessel was reported to be used for grain storage over the winter if it could not be towed from Montreal before fall.

    Reported by: René Beauchamp




    Officers Locked Out

    09/27
    Deck officers were locked out from the Oakglen and Mapleglen on September 22 over a labor dispute. The Canadian Merchant Service Guild, who represents the majority of deck officers employed on the Great Lakes, reported contract bargaining reached an impasse about September 1 before a Federally appointed conciliator. The Sarnia Observer Newspaper reports that the lock out came in anticipation of a strike vote by officers. The deck officers are reported to be unhappy with the wage offer and scaled back premiums on Sunday work.

    It is unclear how this lock out will effect the operation of the ships, both vessels are currently out sailing.

    Reported by: Jamie Kerwin




    Chippewa Removes Passenger

    09/27
    The passenger ferry Chippewa departed Mackinac City at 3:15 Tuesday to take off a passenger onboard the Philip R. Clarke. The Clark was moored a mile off Bob Lo Island in northern Lake Huron just south of Zela Point. She was anchored waiting for calmer seas in southern Lake Huron with a final destination of Detroit. The Clark was at anchor four days along with the South Down Challenger and an American Steam Ship boat.

    Clarke at anchor.
    Captain Chris Rikard slows Chippewa.
    Engineer Steve Hoaglund surveys the situation.
    ASC boat waits out the weather.
    Clarke's hook holds her steady.
    Chippewa moored at the old State Ferry Dock, Mackinac City.

    Reported by: Sean Whelan




    Ste. Claire in Dry Dock

    09/27
    Crews at Toledo Shiprepair are working at a steady pace on the former passenger boat Ste. Claire. Wednesday crews were removing Zebra Mussels and the sandblasting of the hull had been completed. Bottom paint has been applied and minor hull repairs are being tended to. One coat of gloss white paint has been applied above the water line and workers are taping off for a second coat of white. They expect the boat to be refloated by the middle of next week.

    Reported by: Sam Buchanan




    Special delivery of grain in Quebec City

    09/27
    On Wednesday morning the Canadian Progress was rafted to former fleet mate Canadian Explorer, now a storage barge, in order to unload a cargo of wheat into the holds of the barge. This unusual operation in Quebec harbor took place at Section 107 (Cargill terminal).

    In other port news, the cruising season is now at full speed with vessels from many familiar fleets (Norwegian Cruise Lines, Cunard, etc.) filling wharves of the Old Port on a daily basis.

    Reported by: Jeff Boutin




    Calumet at Holland

    09/27
    Heavy weather on Lake Michigan has delayed many arrivals for Holland, MI. The Calumet finally arrived at about 5:00 p.m. Wednesday with a load of coal from KCBX in Chicago. She was originally scheduled to arrive on Sunday.

    Expected to arrive in port late Wednesday or early Thursday was the Algorail. She will deliver a cargo of salt for Verplank's that was expected on Monday. On Wednesday the Algorail was unloading part of the cargo in Milwaukee.

    The Brewer's dock is scheduled for visits from the Joseph H. Frantz and the McKee Sons.

    Reported by: Bob Vande Vusse and Dale Rosema




    Unusual callers at MERC

    09/27
    Courtney Burton was loading at Midwest Energy Terminal on the afternoon of Sept. 26. The boat will carry 12,000 tons of coal to the Xcel generating station in Ashland. American Mariner is now due in Friday (the previous report listed this vessel as American Republic) to load for Marquette.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Tug Sold

    09/27
    The tug H-9901, owned by Groupe Ocean Inc. was sold in August and sailed from Sorel-Tracy on August 18 for Mexico. The tug had been for sale since she was built in 1999.

    Reported by: René Beauchamp




    Speer returns to service

    09/27
    Without fanfare, Edgar B. Speer returned to service this week after a brief lay-up at Sturgeon Bay, Wis.

    The Speer loaded at Two Harbors and is due in Gary on Oct. 28. After that, it is scheduled to return to Two Harbors for another load on Oct. 1.

    The Speer arrived in Sturgeon Bay on Sept. 8. Just last week, an official for USS Great Lakes Fleet told the Duluth News Tribune that the Speer could be idle for another three to five weeks. The same official said the Roger Blough will remain laid up for the rest of the season.

    The Speer joins fleet mate Edwin H. Gott and Presque Isle in the Two Harbors ore trade. The Gott is due in Gary on the 27th. Presque Isle was in Duluth unloading stone on the 26th. It's scheduled to load in Two Harbors on the 27th and then proceed to Conneaut.

    Several GLF vessels were among those delayed by weather Monday. The Gott went to anchor in the St. Marys River because of low water levels. Cason J. Callaway anchored in northern Lake Michigan. After unloading in Buffington, it's due in Calcite on the 28th. Philip R. Clarke anchored in the Straits of Mackinac but was due in to Detroit on the 26th.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Barker in Duluth

    09/27
    The James R. Barker entered the port terminal's C dock in Duluth on Tuesday. It is reported to be at the dock for a short term lay-up.

    Reported by: Paul Cain




    Trillium in Hamilton

    09/27
    Toronto's sidewheel steamer Trillium had a dark and rainy passage to Hamilton Tuesday. She will not be dry docked until Friday, when she will go onto Heddle's Drydock simultaneously with another vessel scheduled to arrive on Friday. Evans McKeil remains on Heddle's small drydock.

    Reported by: Gerry O.




    Alpena Update

    09/27
    The Agawa Canyon returned to the Alpena Oil Co. dock with another load of salt Wednesday morning. The J.A.W. Iglehart came into Lafarge early Wednesday morning to load for Green Bay. The Paul H. Townsend loaded cement and left lay-up Wednesday afternoon leaving Lafarge behind the Joseph H. Frantz. The tug Jacklyn M. and barge Integrity are expected at Lafarge this morning and the Alpena arriving in the afternoon.

    Reported by: Ben and Chanda Bruski




    Toledo Update

    09/27
    The Algowood was scheduled to arrive late Wednesday evening at the CSX Docks to load coal. The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the Arthur M. Anderson and CSL Niagara on Thursday followed by the John G. Munson late Friday evening.

    The next scheduled ore boat due in at the Torco Dock will be the Buckeye on Thursday, October 4. The Ste Clair remains in drydock at the shipyard for survey/hull repairs.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman




    Hamilton News

    09/27
    Late Tuesday night the CSL Niagara transited the Burlington Ship Canal heading for the coal dock at Stelco to unload. The vessel was gone by early Wednesday morning.

    Wednesday afternoon, the Canadian Venture was unloading iron ore at Dofasco.

    Work activity was taking place aboard the Gordon C. Leitch that is having a major internal refit.

    Pumps and equipment are being removed from the Windoc. The deck of the Windoc was being cleared of spilled grain.

    Reported by: Patricia Burgon




    Quebec Update

    09/27
    Below are recent images of traffic in Quebec.

    Algocatalyst upbound Lock 3 at Beauharnois.
    Close up.
    tour boat Montreal turning to make the landing at the old port Montreal.
    Stern view.
    Old lock doors at Pte. des Cascades eastern entrance of the soulanges canal.
    Inside the lock.
    Meeting pool between the locks.
    Artifacts found locally, anchors, propellers and rudders, displayed at Anchor Park adjacent to the lock.
    Pte. des Cascades Light hidden amongst the overgrowth.
    Wide view.

    Reported by: Kent Malo




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 27

    The H.M.GRIFFITH experienced a smoky conveyor belt fire at Port Colborne, Ont. on September 27, 1989. Repairs were completed there.

    The ROGER M. KYES proceeded to Chicago for dry-docking, survey and repairs on September 27, 1976. She had struck bottom in Buffalo Harbor September 22, 1976 sustaining holes in two double bottom tanks and damage to three others.

    The GEORGE M. HUMPHREY (2) under tow, locked through the Panama Canal from September 27 to the 30th on her way to the cutters torch.

    SEAWAY TRADER was launched September 27, 1947 as a) IMPERIAL COLLINGWOOD for Imperial Oil Ltd., Toronto, Ont.

    September 27, 1909 - The ANN ARBOR NO. 4 entered service after being repaired from her capsizing at Manistique the previous May.

    On 27 September 1884, WALDO A. AVERY (wooden propeller, 204’, 1294GT) was launched at W. Bay City, MI. Her construction had been subcontracted by F.W. Wheeler to Thomas F. Murphy.

    On 27-29 September 1872, a big storm swept the lower Lakes. Here are the Lake Huron tragedies. The barges HUNTER and DETROIT were destroyed. The tug SANDUSKY rescued the 21 survivors for them. The schooner CORSAIR foundered off Sturgeon Point on Saginaw Bay at 4 PM on Sunday the 29th and only 2 of the crew survived. The barge A. LINCON was ashore one mile below Au Sable with no loss of life. The barge TABLE ROCK went ashore off Tawas Point and went to pieces. All but one of her crew was lost. The schooner WHITE SQUALL was sunk ten miles off Fish Point -- only one crewman was saved. The schooner SUMMIT went ashore at Fish Point, 7 miles north of Tawas with two lives lost.

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




    Grain from Port Stanley

    09/26
    The Mapleglen arrived in Port Stanley Tuesday morning to load the first grain to be shipped from the port in three years. Heavy silting in the harbor had virtually put an end to shipping from the Lake Erie port. Dredging of the harbor is close to being completed and it is hopeful the Mapleglen is the first of many to arrive before the season ends.

    Reported by: Joan Wilton




    Barker Stops in Duluth

    09/26
    The James R. Barker entered the port terminal's C dock in Duluth on Tuesday. It apparently was undergoing repairs, with a wheeled crane parked near the stern.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Duluth Pictures

    09/26
    Below are images taken in Duluth on Tuesday.

    James R. Barker at the Duluth Port Terminal.
    Alpena was in town discharging cement and is shown backed into the Duluth terminal Tuesday morning. Because of the depth of this slip, she has to discharge first in Superior then they usually back up to the Duluth Slip to finish unloading.
    Halifax taking on fuel at the Murphy Oil fueling station at the Duluth Port Terminal.

    Reported by: Kent Rengo




    Weather Delays

    09/26
    Many ships have stopped for weather since Sunday evening in the Straits of Mackinac.

    A crewmember from the Sam Laud was evacuated on Monday in heavy seas with a serious finger injury. A U.S. Coast Guard vessel from St. Ignace was forced to spend much of Sunday evening and Monday at the Star Line ferry dock in St. Ignace due to sea conditions at Station St. Ignace.

    In another highly unusual maneuver, a crew member was taken off a lake boat by the Arnold Line ferry boat Chippewa in a heavy gale on Tuesday afternoon, the first time in recent memory that had occurred.

    The extreme conditions were playing havoc with regular ferry runs between Mackinaw city and Mackinac Island. Star Line in Mackinaw City was forced to suspend operations since 5:00 p.m. Sunday evening, by far the longest suspension in service in the company's history.

    Reported by: Terry Foley




    Crewman Evacuated

    09/26
    A 62-year-old crewman aboard the Burns Harbor was evacuated Monday night with a suspected heart attack. The vessel was anchored in the St. Marys River waiting for the water level to come up in the Rock Cut, so the Soo Coast Guard was able to perform a quick and efficient evacuation. The crewman was reported to be in stable condition at a local hospital.




    Integrity Waits

    09/26
    The tug Jacklyn M and barge Integrity were anchored on Muskegon Lake Tuesday waiting out the weather. A stiff northeasterly wind had been blowing for two days on Lake Michigan with waves ranging from 6-12 feet on Tuesday. The high winds have sent many vessels to anchor around the lakes.

    Reported by: Ike Stephenson




    Ferry Continues on

    09/26
    The ferry Deer Island Princess II arrived at the Iroquois Lock in a steady rain Tuesday after spending the night at the grain elevators at Prescott Harbor. The crew on board was in for a cool and wet trip through the Seaway locks.

    The ferry, built at Wheatly, Ontario, is downbound for the east coast with its final destination to be St. Johns, Newfoundland. Because of her slower speed it is expected the trip will be of a fairly lengthy duration.

    Approaching the Iroquois Lock. Bud Bonner
    In the lock. Bud Bonner
    Another view. Bud Bonner
    Close up of the pilothouse. Bud Bonner
    Departing downbound. Bud Bonner
    Passing Brockville. Peter Carter

    Reported by: Bud Bonner and Peter Carter




    Toledo Update

    09/26
    The Algomarine was at the CSX Docks loading coal on Tuesday and was expected to depart later on in the afternoon. There were no other vessels in port at the time of this report. The Adam E. Cornelius remained in lay-up at the the CSX #1 Dock but is expected to depart soon and return to service. The passenger vessel Ste Claire remains in drydock at the shipyard.

    The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the Algowood today followed by the Arthur M. Anderson and CSL Niagara on Thursday. Heavy weather on the lakes may delays the scheduled arrivals.

    The next scheduled ore boat due in at the Torco Dock will be the Buckeye on Thursday, October 4. There are no other ore boats scheduled for the dock at this time.

    Classic Toledo images
    Avondale being towed down the Maumee River from the Cherry Street Bridge after loading a grain cargo at one of the Elevators upriver.
    Thomas Wilson of the Columbia Fleet inbound Maumee Bay with a load of ore pellets bound for the C&O Ore Docks.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman




    Updates

    09/26
    I decided to add few small video clips from Duluth, check back Wednesday night for the regular weekly updates.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 26

    The CHI-CHEEMAUN cleared the shipyard on September 26, 1974.

    The H.M. GRIFFITH was christened on September 26, 1973 at Collingwood. The CCGS GRIFFON was launched September 26, 1969 by Davie Shipbuilding Ltd., Lauzon, Que.

    ROGER M. KYES (b) ADAM E. CORNELIUS) returned to service on September 26, 1984, she had grounded off McLouth Steel and ended crosswise in the Detroit River's Trenton Channel a month before.

    The BELLE RIVER was side swiped by the Liberian FEDERAL RHINE at Duluth on September 26, 1985. Both vessels received minor damage.

    On 26 September 1914, MARY N. BOURKE (WOODEN SCHOONER-BARGE, 219’, 920gt, BUILT IN 1889 AT Baraga, MI) was docked at Peter’s Lumber Dock in St. Mary’s Bay, 15 miles north of St. Ignace, MI. The crew was awakened at 9:30-10:00 p.m. by smoke coming from her hold and they escapes. The BOURKE burned to the waterline and the fire spread ashore, destroying the dock and a pile of lumber.

    At 3:00 AM, 26 September 1876, the steam barge LADY FRANKLIN burned while moored near Clark's dock, about three miles from Amherstburg in the Detroit River. One life was lost. This vessel had been built in 1861 as a passenger steamer and ran between Cleveland and Port Stanley. In 1874, she was converted into a lumber freighter, running primarily between Saginaw and Cleveland. The burned hull was rebuilt in 1882.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Dave 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




    Oakglen Returns to Service

    09/25
    The Oakglen returned to service Monday after being in a temporary lay-up since September 1. She had been tied up and out of action at the Keefer Terminals in Thunder Bay. Monday morning she moved over to Richardson Elevator to begin loading. Early Monday afternoon she moved over and tied up at Saskatchewan Pool 7a to continue loading.

    Reported by: Rob Farrow




    Weather delays

    09/25
    Through out the lakes high winds have been delaying traffic as gale force winds are dropping water levels.

    Although the weather in the Sarnia area Monday was excellent, a gale warning was up for parts of Lake Huron and as a result, the Buffalo, Armco, and Reserve where anchored below Indian Point (between the Shell fuel dock and the Sunoco products dock on the St. Clair River) waiting for weather. The Petite Forte was in the Sarnia Government Docks (south wall) with her barge St. Marys Cement. They were awaiting another barge to join them to shift cargo.

    The Capt. Ralph Tucker was docked directly in front of the Petite Forte. The Alice A. with the PML 9000 was at the Sydney Smith Dock. The Mesabi Miner was at Recor Edison and the Jean Parisien was at the Lambton Generating Station. The Algobay was anchored waiting for the Jean Parisien to depart or for better weather. The Algolake cleared downbound about 6:30 p.m. at Lake Huron Cut 1 and 2.

    Reported by: Jamie Kerwin




    Saginaw unloads

    09/25
    On Sunday the Saginaw was unloading in Sarnia the Cargill Grain Elevator. It was unloading a cargo of corn from Toledo.

    Deck hand drags the heavy cable to tie up.
    1st Mate Brandon Durant on deck.
    At the dock.
    Another view.

    Reported by: T. Parker




    Trillium Completes season

    09/25
    Toronto's venerable steam paddle wheeler Trillium has finished its charter season and was expected depart Toronto early this morning. Weather permitting the Trillium will head for Heddle's Drydock in Hamilton for her five-year inspection.

    Reported by: Gerry O.




    Twin Ports Report

    09/25
    Cenex Harvest States continued its busy fall pace Monday as it loaded Goldeneye on one side and Chios Pride on the other side. Both loading berths have been busy for the past few weeks.

    Elsewhere in port, Quebecois was being unloaded at St. Lawrence Cement. Alpena was at Lafarge's Superior terminal, and Federal Welland remained at AGP elevator. Midwest Energy Terminal was busy loading Canadian Enterprise during the day, with Walter J. McCarthy Jr. arriving a little after 4 p.m., making the turn to back up St. Louis Bay to wait to slip right into the loading berth when the Enterprise cleared.

    Two unusual callers scheduled for Midwest Energy Terminal on Wednesday are Courtney Burton and American Republic.

    The Burton is scheduled to carry coal to the Xcel Energy plant in Ashland, Wis. Oglebay Norton boats have been handling this occasional run this season, having taken over the job from USS Great Lakes Fleet. American Republic is scheduled to carry coal to the Shiras generating station in Marquette.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Escanaba Update

    09/25
    The Wilfred Sykes loaded ore in Escanaba, while the Joseph H Thompson has reentered lay-up and is tied up near the old ore dock. The tug barge combo Michigan Great Lakes was at anchor for weather off the ore dock.

    Sykes loading.
    Another view.
    Barge Joseph H. Thompson in lay-up.
    tug Michigan and barge Great Lakes at anchor.

    Reported by: Scott Best




    Detroit Traffic

    09/25
    Below are images of Buffalo on the Detroit River Sunday.

    Buffalo upbound.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Reporting

    09/25
    The Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation has requested that I limited the reporting on these types of vessels through the site: tanker vessels; U.S. and Canadian Coast Guard vessels; Seaway entity vessels and military/war vessels.

    Because of the events of September 11, the St. Lawrence Seaway has been under extremely tight security protocols both in terms of vessel transits and the information that may be out in cyberspace related to transit data.

    They are in the process of removing vessel location information related to those types of vessels from their site and phone recordings. In addition, they have closed the Visitors' Center at the Eisenhower Lock in Massena and pulled all vessel transit information from the telephone recording.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 25

    In tandem tow, the MENIHEK LAKE and LEON FALK, JR. arrived at Vigo, Spain on September 25, 1985. The MENIHEK LAKE was scrapped at Vigo, and the FALK was towed to Gijón, Spain for scrapping.

    The HENRY C. FRICK departed Bay City on her maiden voyage on September 25, 1905 and rammed and damaged the Michigan Central R.R. Bridge at Bay City.

    On 25 September 1869, COMMENCEMENT (2-mast wooden schooner, 75', 73 t, built in 1853 at Holland, Michigan) was carrying wood in her hold and telegraph poles on deck from Pentwater, Michigan for Milwaukee when she sprang a leak 20 miles off Little Sable Point on Lake Michigan. The incoming water quickly overtook her pump capacity. As the crew was getting aboard the lifeboat, she turned turtle. The crew clung to the upturned hull for 30 hours until the passing steamer ALLEGHENY finally rescued them. COMMENCEMENT later washed ashore, a total wreck.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Dave 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




    Speer departs Bay Ship

    09/24
    The Edgar B. Speer departed Bay Ship about 11:00 a.m. Sunday morning, heading upbound on Green Bay. The ship had arrived for short term lay-up and 5-year inspection but the ship yard was unable to complete a survey at this time. The National Weather Service had issued a Gale Warning for the north half of Green Bay at the time of departure.
    Pulling anchor.
    Testing bow thruster.
    Raising anchor washing off mud.
    Anchor about ready to go into pocket.
    Main engine cooling water coming from stern.
    Out bound to Green Bay.
    Tug William Selvick departing Speer after assisting.
    Bow of Speer off Sherwood Point Light.
    Waves and wind increase as Speer clears Head Land at Sherwood Point.

    Reported by: Vic DeLarwelle




    Hamilton News and Windoc update

    09/24
    Sunday evening work was progressing on the Windoc. Two of the four pumps are still operating. The Windoc is so much higher now that the Canadian Provider can be barely seen from dockside.

    The saltie Lijnbaansgracht is moored at Pier 12 possibly unloading steel products.

    The tug Everlast has moved west on Pier 14 and is moored on the north face of the pier. The fuel storage vessel Provmar Terminal is back at Pier 24 and is in ballast.

    Tug James A. Hannah and barge 5101 were at Pier 23 and look to be about finished unloading carbon black oil.

    Reported by: Patricia Burgon




    New Ferry in Canal

    09/24
    The new ferry Deer Island Princess II arrived off Port Colborne Sunday morning. The ferry was built by Hike Metals of Wheatly, Ont. and is en route to a homeport on the east coast.

    Reported by: Jimmy Sprunt




    Agawa Canyon Delivers Salt

    09/24
    The Agawa Canyon arrived in Alpena late afternoon on Sunday to unload salt at the Alpena Oil Co. dock. This is the third load of salt brought so far with this being the second trip for the Agawa Canyon this year. It was expected to stay in port after unloading due to weather. The Joseph H. Frantz is also waiting out the weather at Lafarge.

    Reported by: Ben and Chanda Bruski




    James Norris Back on Stone Run

    09/24
    Last Wednesday afternoon the James Norris slipped her moorings in Toronto to end a short mid season lay-up. That afternoon she sailed for Colborne to load limestone for the St. Lawrence Cement plant in Clarkson.

    The Norris arrived in Clarkson very late Saturday night or very early Sunday morning with her third cargo of limestone since returning from lay-up. She was gone again before noon on Sunday.

    Reported by: Bryan Ridley




    Coal for Grand Haven

    09/24
    Late Saturday evening the Charles M. Beeghly was in the Grand River in Grand Haven unloading coal onto the island for the J. B. Sims power plant.

    Reported by: Dale Rosema




    Saginaw River Update

    09/24
    The tanker Gemini arrived early Sunday morning at the Ashland-Marathon dock in Bay City and remained at the dock throughout the day.

    The Dorothy Ann/Pathfinder arrived in the river at about 8 a.m. Sunday, going up to the Saginaw Rock Products dock. This is her third visit to the river in the past five days. She completed unloading early in the evening and was outbound shortly after 8 p.m.

    The Wolverine was inbound at about 6 p.m. She lightered first at the Wirt dock at Bay City and was to continue up to Saginaw after the Dorothy Ann and barge Pathfinder was clear.

    Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey




    Toledo Update

    09/24
    The Canadian Transport finished loading coal on Sunday at the CSX Dock and departed. The CSL Niagara was due in later on that day and will load coal off and on through Monday. They were waiting for coal that is in transit via rail to the CSX Dock site.

    The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks are the Algowood, Arthur M. Anderson, CSL Niagara and Buffalo on Thursday. There are no ore vessels scheduled for the Torco Docks at this time.

    The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock. The passenger vessel Ste. Claire remains in drydock at the Shipyard.

    Classic Toledo images
    Mondoc downbound the Maumee River from the Cherry Street Bridge after loading a grain cargo at one of the Elevators up river.
    Walter A. Sterling sailing downbound the Maumee River from the Craig Bridge. She just departed her winter lay-up dock at the City Docks and is now sailing on her first trip of the season. She presently sails for the Interlake Fleet as the Lee A. Tregurtha.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman




    Toronto Report

    09/24
    The salty Armonikos came into port Saturday afternoon and went to anchor. Empire Sandy completed her charter season. Work on replanking the upper deck of the ferry Sam McBride has been stopped, with only half the deck done. The other half will be done in the spring.

    Reported by: Gerry O.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 24

    On September 24th the A.H. FERBERT (2) went hard aground at the Cut-Off Channel's southeast bend of the St. Clair River. Six tugs, GLENADA, ELMORE M. MISNER, BARBARA ANN, GLENSIDE, SHANNON and WM. A. WHITNEY, worked until late on the 26th to free her.

    The FITZGERALD's first cargo of taconite pellets was loaded September 24, 1958 at Silver Bay, MN. for Toledo, OH.

    The PERE MARQUETTE 22 entered service September 24, 1924.

    In early morning fog on the St. Clair River September 24, 1962 the J.L. REISS was hit three glancing blows by U.S. Steel's SEWELL AVERY. The AVERY had lost control just below Robert's Landing and crossed the channel from the Canadian side and struck the J.L. REISS which was proceeding slowly by radar on the U.S. side.

    On September 24, 1952, the Charles L. Hutchinson entered service. This vessel was renamed Ernest R. Breech when it was sold to the Ford Motor Company in 1962, and it was given its present name, Kinsman Independent, when it was sold to Kinsman Lines in 1988.

    On September 23, 1991, J.W. McGIFFON rescued several people in a 24' pleasure craft off Presque Ile State Park. The group had been disabled since the day before. They were taken aboard the McGIFFON and their boat taken under tow.

    September 24, 1924 - The PERE MARQUETTE 22 arrived Ludington on her maiden voyage.

    On 24 September 1902, H.A. BARR (3 mast wooden schooner, 217', 1119GT, built in 1893 at W. Bay City, MI) was in tow of the “saltie” THEANO with a load of iron ore in a storm 30 miles off Port Stanley in Lake Erie. She broke her tow line in giant waves and foundered. THEANO rescued her crew.

    On 24 September 1879, the tug URANIA was towing the schooner S. V. R. WATSON into Sand Beach at about noon when the schooner struck the tug amidships, cutting a hole in the hull and sinking her in three fathoms of water. No lives were lost.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Max Hanley, James Neumiller, 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




    Busy Winter for the Seaway

    09/23
    The St Lawrence Seaway is expecting to close for the season by Christmas Eve and begin a large number of maintenance and upgrade projects to be completed before the start of the 2002/2003 shipping season in the spring. Authorities expect to open for navigation on March 26.

    The Seaway Management Corp reports a number of major structural restoration projects are planned and work must start as early as possible to prevent a delay in start of the new season. The Seaway is working on a five-year, $25M (Canadian) upgrade plan that enters its third year this winter.

    Reported by: John Stark




    New Ferry Expected Today

    09/23
    The new ferry Deer Island Princess II is expected to arrive off Port Colborne this morning at 8:30 a.m. The ferry departed from the Hike Metal yard late last week and is en route to New Brunswick.

    Reported by: Jimmy Sprunt




    Alpena News

    09/23
    It was a busy weekend in Alpena with the Fred R. White Jr. unloading coal at Lafarge Friday evening followed by the tug Jacklyn M and barge Integrity arriving to load cement. The American Republic made a rare short visit at the Alpena Oil Dock on Saturday morning, unloading sand.

    The Alpena came into port around 11:00 a.m. on Saturday to load cement for Superior, WI. The Joseph H. Frantz is expected at Lafarge early Sunday morning to unload taconite tailings. The J.A.W Iglehart is in Cleveland. The Paul H. Townsend is expected to leave its temporary lay-up in Alpena on Sept. 27.

    Reported by: Ben and Chanda Bruski




    Saginaw River Update

    09/23
    The Walter J. McCarthy, Jr. departed the Karn-Weadock/Consumers Energy Dock at 10:50 Saturday morning. She departed stern first, backing out into the Saginaw Bay to turn for the lake. The McCarthy had just finished unloading a cargo of coal.

    The Wolverine was outbound the Saginaw River at the I-75 Bridge, giving a security call at 12:45. The Wolverine had arrived overnight with stone for both the Bay City & Saginaw Wirt Docks.

    Pictures by Todd Shorkey
    Walter J. McCarthy, Jr. backing out of the Saginaw River.
    Another View.
    Passing the Saginaw River Front Range.
    Wolverine downbound approaching Independence Bridge.
    Stern clearing Independence Bridge.
    Stern View.

    Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey




    Detroit Traffic

    09/23
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Saturday.

    Pomorze Zachodne (Poland) at DMT2 in Detroit.
    Stern view.
    American Mariner unloading on Zug Island in the Rouge Short-cut Channel.
    Northcliffe Hall at the ADM Dock.
    Name on the bow.
    Anohter view.
    Mapleglen unloading at the ADM Dock in Windsor.
    Another view.
    Federal Maas (Barbados) in Ojibway Anchorage.
    Stern view.
    Canadian Century loading at the Ojibway Salt Dock.
    Kellstone I and James Palladino at Nicholson's Terminal & Dock.
    Stern view.
    Tug James Palladino.
    Another view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Toronto Update

    09/23
    Canadian Voyager came into Pier 35 early Thursday morning for a temporary lay-up due to lack of cargo. Her crew was paid off, but a few transferred to Canadian Provider in Hamilton to help with the loading of Windoc's cargo. The Voyager is expected to return to service in 10 to 12 days.

    Wayward Princess went to Hamilton on Wednesday for a charter and returned early Thursday morning.

    Reported by: Gerry O.




    Duluth Gathering

    09/23
    As the weekend winds down the Boatnerd Gathering North comes to an end. We had a great weekend filled with dock tours and boat watching. On Saturday our group was treated to a tour of the St. Lawrence Cement Terminal and the breath taking view from the top. We ended the day with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet.

    My thanks to all who made the weekend's events possible and all those who made the trip to Duluth to participate. Individuals and companies include: Steve Haverty and Al Miller; David Sobczak and Brian Harrison of St. Lawrence Cement; Marshall Elder, Patrick Perfetti and the staff at the SMET terminal; Davis Helberg, Ron Johnson and Lisa Marciniak of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority who provided hats and brochures for all who attended; Ken Newhams of the Duluth Shipping News; the crew of the Vista Fleet; Jody Aho and the staff at the William A. Irvin museum ship.

    Check back Monday for pictures.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 23

    On 23 September 1910, BETHLEHEM (steel propeller package freighter, 290’, 2633GT, built in 1888 at Cleveland) was carrying general merchandise when she went ashore in a gale on the SW side of S. Manitou Island in Lake Michigan. Lifesavers and the crew unloaded her over several days. Although battered by several storms while ashore, she was eventually pulled free and repaired. She lasted until 1925 when she was scrapped.

    The scow WAUBONSIE was launched at the Curtis yard in Fort Gratiot, Michigan on 23 September 1873.

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

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




    Windoc Update

    09/22
    Transfer of the grain cargo from the Windoc to the Canadian Provider is complete; the Provider has taken on all but 5,000 tons of the cargo. Crews are expected to report aboard the Provider today and take the ship to Montreal for unloading. After unloading is complete they will return to the upper lakes for the fall grain rush. 5,000 tons of grain remains in the Windoc and it is unknown what is to be done with the cargo.

    The future of the Windoc also remains in question. The insurance company that now owns the hull is rumored to be offering the vessel at auction once the cargo is completely unloaded.

    Reported by: Wally Wallace




    Wreck of the Chicora Discovered in Lake Michigan

    09/22
    A shipwreck search expedition, called “Quest for the Chicora” organized by the non-profit Southwest Michigan Underwater Preserve Committee, and overseen by members of the newly formed “Chicora Preservation Society” today announced the discovery of a shipwreck believed to be the Chicora, located off the eastern shore of Southwest Lake Michigan. It is outside the boundaries of the Southwest Michigan Underwater Preserve and in very deep water. Using side-scan sonar, owned and operated by renowned shipwreck hunter David Trotter of Undersea Research Associates in Canton, Michigan, this discovery was made in May of 2001 . The sonograms (or interpretations) of the discovery indicate a wooden steam vessel approximately 200 feet in length, resting upright with an intact hull.

    Further work on the site has been conducted by search committee members, consisting of Jan Miller, Valerie van Heest, Bernie Harris, Craig Rich, and Jack van Heest, to identify the object with a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) fitted with lighting and photographic equipment. The ROV is the preferred method of identification due to the dangers inherent with the depth, which is well outside of recreational diving limits as well as unknown obstacles and entrapments that may be present at the site. On September 15, 2001 the team shot underwater video that supports the conclusion that the discovery is in fact the Chicora and is based upon many indications, including its location, position, condition, size, profile, and numerous artifacts all consistent with the long lost vessel.

    The steamship Chicora was built for the Graham & Morton Transportation Company by the Detroit Dry Dock Company in 1892. This especially stout ship, built to cut through the ice pack and safely ply the often violent waters of the Great Lakes, had been designed for winter passenger and cargo runs between Wisconsin and southern Michigan. The Chicora was a wooden hulled vessel, 198.5 feet long with a 35-foot beam. In January, 1895 the Chicora had already been tied up for the winter at St. Joseph, Michigan when her owners received a request to deliver a shipment of late winter flour from Milwaukee, Wisconsin back to St. Joseph. Captain Edward C. Stines of St. Joseph readied his ship and left for Milwaukee early Sunday morning, January 20. The next day, she left the Milwaukee dock at 5:00 AM.. The Chicora would have been about mid lake when the winds shifted to the southwest and began blowing with a typical January fury, and she was never seen again. No bodies were ever recovered. No wreckage more substantial than superstructure and masts was ever found... Until now.

    The “Chicora Preservation Society” (CPS), has been formed by search committee members, Jan Miller, Valerie and Jack van Heest, and Craig Rich as well as others and was developed independently of the SWMUP, to focus on documenting the ship and working with archaeologists to interpret more fully the impact of the discovery. The CPS hopes to work in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, the Michigan Historical Center-Dept. of State, and other local organizations including Kenneth Pott, Executive Director of the Benton Harbor’s Fort Miami Heritage Society.

    Reported by: Craig Rich and Joe Barr




    Busy Day

    09/22
    Friday was a busy day at Bay Ship in Sturgeon Bay. The Wilfred Sykes and Sam Laud arrived at the ship yard Thursday evening. It is unknown what why the Sam Laud is in the ship yard but appeared to have a new patch on her starboard bow plating.

    The Wilfred Sykes is in for repair of a turbine bearing. The crew of the Edgar B. Speer is reporting back on board, she is expected to depart Bay Ship Sunday morning. The Speer was reported to be entering the ship yard for its 5-year survey.

    The ship yard looks more like winter lay-up time than mid-season repair.

    Bow of Sykes and stern of Sam Laud.
    Dredge Liberty Island at Berth #7 Sykes at Berth #8 .
    Wide view from across the bay, Sam Laud, Wilfred Sykes and Speer.

    Reported by: Vic DeLarwelle




    Saginaw Loads Wheat in Thunder Bay

    09/22
    The Saginaw returned to Thunder Bay for only the 2nd time this season. She arrived about 1:00 p.m. on Saturday September 15 and docked at the Towland/Hewitson Dock at the mouth of the Kaministiqua River. As she was secured, her boom was swung out and had the belts moving. Once she was secured, she started unloading her load of salt. In all she unloaded just over 17,000 metric tons of salt onto the dock right beside the pile of salt that the Canadian Century had unloaded the day before.

    After unloading her cargo of salt and cleaning the holds she proceeded over to the mouth of the Mission River where she tied up at Cargill Elevator and proceeded to take on a load of wheat. Early Sunday afternoon she backed out of Cargill and crossed the outer harbor over the north entrance, where she docked at Richardson Elevator. By late Sunday night the Saginaw was finished loading and heading down the Lake for Sarnia with 15,000 metric tons of Wheat.

    Other vessel traffic in the port over the past week consisted of the salties Pintail, Marinus Green and the Koningsborg. Laker traffic consisted of Canadian Leader, Canadian Enterprise and Algomarine. The tanker Algonova was over at Petro-Can unloading fuel. The McNally tugs Bagotville and Sandra Mary and their barges are busy with three different projects here in port. They are dredging the South Breakwall Entrance, working on the new bridge at the mouth of the Kaministiqua River and also dredging the old dumping grounds near the mouth of the Mission River. After a short lay-up the Radium Yellowknife and the W.N. Twolan are back making lumber trips on the lake. The Oakglen remains in short term lay-up while the long term lay-ups, Quedoc, Vandoc, Wolf River and the Algontario remain tied up with no activity seen.

    Late fall in the Port of Thunder Bay is expected to be a busy one according to some sources.

    Saginaw unloading.
    At Cargill.
    Tug Peninsula.
    Pintail at Keefer.
    George N. Carleton.

    Reported by: Rob Farrow




    Theodore Too in Sandusky

    09/22
    Theodore Too, the full-sized replica of the tugboat from the children's TV show, arrived Thursday afternoon in Sandusky Bay to take part in this weekend's Bay Days. The tug replica will be open for tours.

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




    Toledo Marine Mart Today

    09/22
    A Marine Mart will take place today at the International Park along side the Museum Ship Willis B. Boyer. Open from 10:00 a.m. to about 3:00 p.m., the event will give many people a chance to purchase Great Lakes Marine memorabilia and a chance to tour the Boyer.

    Reported by: Al Jackman




    Toledo Marine Mart Today

    09/22
    A Marine Mart will take place today at the International Park along side the Museum Ship Willis B. Boyer. Open from 10:00 a.m. to about 3:00 p.m., the event will give many people a chance to purchase Great Lakes Marine memorabilia and a chance to tour the Boyer.

    Reported by: Al Jackman




    Duluth Gathering

    09/22
    A weekend of boat watching and touring is planned for September 22-23 in Duluth. The weekend starts on Saturday with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet. The fleet's tour boats will take us up close to all the boat watching action in port Saturday afternoon at 12:30.

    Click here for more information.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 22

    On September 22, 1958, the Edmund Fitzgerald entered service, departing River Rouge, Michigan for Silver Bay, Minnesota on its first trip. The Fitzgerald's first load was 20,038 tons of taconite pellets for Toledo. The vessel would, in later years, set several iron ore records during the period from 1965 through 1969.

    While in ballast, the ROGER M. KYES (b- ADAM E. CORNELIUS) struck bottom in Buffalo Harbor September 22, 1976 sustaining holes in two double bottom tanks and damage to three others, whereupon she proceeded to Chicago for dry docking on September 27, 1976 for survey and repairs.

    While being towed from Duluth, MN by the Canadian tug TUSKER on September 22, 1980, the D.G. KERR (2) rammed into the breakwater at Duluth causing $200,000 in damages to the breakwater. The tow apparently failed to make the turning buoy leaving Duluth Harbor.

    On September 22, 1911 the HENRY PHIPPS collided with and sank her Steel Trust fleetmate, steamer JOLIET (1), which was at anchor on the fog shrouded St. Clair River near Sarnia, Ont. The JOLIET (1) sank without loss of crew and was declared a total loss. The PHIPPS then continued her downbound journey and collided with the Wyandotte Chemical steamer ALPENA (1) that incurred only minor damage.

    The T.W. ROBINSON and US.265808 (former BENSON FORD (2) departed Quebec City in tow of the Polish tug JANTAR bound for Recife where they arrived on September 22, 1987. Scrapping began the next month in October.

    The West freed MATHILDA DESGAGNES from polar ice in the Arctic on September 22, 1988 German Icebreaker Research Vessel POLARSTERN.

    September 22, 1913 - The ANN ARBOR NO. 5 struck bottom in the Sturgeon Bay Canal and damaged her rudder and steering gear. After undergoing repairs at Milwaukee, she was back in service the following October.

    On 22 September 1887, ADA E. ALLEN (wooden propeller steam barge, 90’, 170GC, built in 1872 at Walpole Island, Ont.) caught fire while moored at Amherstburg, Ont. She was cut loose and set adrift to prevent the fire from spreading ashore. She drifted to Bois Blanc (Bob-Lo) Island and burned to a total loss.

    On 22 September 1882, Mr. H. N. Jex accepted the contract to recover the engine and boiler from the MAYFLOWER, which sank in the Detroit River in 1864. He was to be paid $600 upon delivery of the machinery at Windsor, Ontario. He succeeded in raising the engine on 12 October and the boiler shortly thereafter.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Max Hanley, James Neumiller, 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




    Jackson Loads

    09/21
    Thursday the Herbert C. Jackson was loading grain at the Peavey Elevator in Superior, WI. The cargo is destine for Buffalo, one of many upcoming trips.

    Like other ships carrying bulk cargoes in addition to grain, special procedures are taken to prepare the cargo holds. They are cleaned and dried before loading the cargo. The open spaces in the gates at the bottom of the cargo hold are sealed to prevent the cargo from running into the conveyor tunnels.

    The Jackson finished loading and then moved across the harbor to Murphy Fuel. She completed a 180-degree turn in the harbor and then effortlessly backed to the fuel dock. The dock's location and ship's fuel connection locations make it necessary for the vessel to face with its bow pointing to Superior.

    The Jackson finished fueling and departed about 9:00 p.m. sailing out the ship canal bow first, it is expected to arrive in Buffalo in three days.

    Loading at Peavey.
    looking forward on deck.
    Workers from the elevator load the grain from the deck of the Jackson.
    Grain flows into the cargo hold.
    Looking aft from the forward cabins.
    Panoramic view.
    Pilothouse is a mix of old and new.
    Loadmaster computer in the pilothouse with modern navigation systems in the background.
    Electronic chart shows the position.
    Panoramic.
    Draft-O-Meter shows loading in almost complete.
    Fleetmate Mesabi Miner loads nearby at SMET.
    Away from the dock (John Sherwin can be seen at its lay-up dock in the back ground).
    Starting the turn.
    Half way through the turn.
    Backing to the fuel dock.
    Crew members are landed.
    Lines secured.
    Winches used to tighten the lines.
    Fuel line onboard.
    Capt. Joseph Ruch (right) and First Mate Dennis Mihalek supervise.
    Bow thruster engine fuel.
    Jackson fueling.
    180-degree view.

    Reported by: N. Schultheiss




    August Tonnage for Duluth

    09/21
    Strong Canadian coal shipments and increased domestic iron ore shipments helped bring year-to-date commerce in the Port of Duluth-Superior above last year’s level, the Duluth Seaway Port Authority reported Thursday.

    All cargo through August totaled 21.5 million metric tons, 3.6 percent ahead of last year’s 20.8 million tons and 2.4 percent above the five-year average of 21 million tons.

    Outbound coal handled through Superior’s Midwest Energy Resources Co. has set annual Port records for seven consecutive years and appears well on its way to an eighth. Canadian coal shipments through August rose to 3.16 million tons compared with last year’s 1.67 million tons --- a 90 percent increase.

    Historically the Port’s No. 2 cargo, coal shipments eclipsed iron ore in the 2000 season and continue as the Port’s maritime commerce leader to date. Coal shipped via the facility through August reached 9.3 million metric tons (nearly 10 percent above last year’s level of 8.5 million tons.)

    Despite the Lake Carriers’ Association’s report of a 20.5 percent drop in overall Great Lakes iron ore shipments through August, Duluth-Superior’s domestic shipments of iron ore climbed from 6.1 to 6.8 million tons. This year’s higher lake levels and the closure of an LTV Co. dock in Taconite Harbor, Minn., contributed to the 12 percent increase.

    Total iron ore shipments through August of 8.5 million tons held nearly even with the same period a year ago. Iron ore shipments for the balance of the season are expected to be negatively impacted by the early lay up of USS Great Lakes Fleet’s 858-foot Roger Blough and the temporary lay up of the Edgar B. Speer.

    Shipments of bulk grain, the Port’s third leading cargo, reached 1.7 million tons, a 16 percent drop from last year’s nearly two million tons.

    The Port’s three principal cargoes of coal, iron ore and grain combined equaled 90 percent of total commerce-coal with 43 percent, iron ore at 39 percent, and grain with seven percent.

    Total international trade-boosted by the strong Canadian coal shipments-reached 6.7 million metric tons, 8.5 percent above the 6.1 million tons reached last year.

    Increased domestic shipments of iron ore and receipts of limestone (used in making ore pellets and for agricultural chemical processes) brought total domestic trade to 14.9 million tons, a 1.5 percent increase from last year’s 14.7 million tons.

    Total vessel arrivals through August of 603 represented a decrease of two from last year. There were 367 U.S.-flag, 150 Canadian-flag and 86 overseas vessels visiting the Port.

    Reported by: Duluth Seaway Port Authority




    Independent Loads

    09/21
    The Kinsman Independent was loading grain at the Cargill Elevator in Duluth on Thursday. This is the ships first trip after a mid season lay-up. The Independent is the last U.S. flagged straight deck bulk carrier. Because it lacks self unloading gear it spends most of the summer in lay-up and returns to service for the fall grain rush.

    Once finished loading the cargo will be taken to Buffalo.

    Loading at Cargill.
    Bow view.

    Reported by: N. Schultheiss




    Pig Iron

    09/21
    Chios Pride was unloading Pig Iron in Marinette along side the William H. Donner on Thursday. The crane ship Donner uses powerful magnets on its cranes to lift the cargo from the Chios Pride. It is unloading approximately 20 thousand tons of pig iron and should depart sometime today.

    Chios Pride and Crane ship Donner.
    Dock side view.
    Chios Pride deckhouse.
    Pig iron dropped from the Donner's cranes to the dock.
    Bow view from Menakaunee Bridge.

    Reported by: Scott Best




    Detroit Traffic

    09/21
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Thursday evening.

    Gemini downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Emerald Star downbound at Fighting Island North Light.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Cleveland update

    09/21
    The Richard Reiss arrived Wednesday night with two tugs for the Osborne Dock. It departed Thursday morning with the tug Delaware. The Calumet was inbound with the Idaho at 9:00 a.m. for the Salt Dock. The tug Barbara Andrie with barge departed Marathon with a tug at 1:00 a.m. The tug James Palladino and Kellstone I was tied up at Dock 20 Thursday morning.

    Pictures by TZ
    Tug Delaware tows the Reiss out.
    Close up.
    Bow view.
    Delaware.
    Reiss heads outbound.
    Calumet inbound.
    Close up of the Idaho.
    Looking down on the stern.
    Bow.
    Tow heading up river.
    Another view.
    Kellstone I and James Palladino.
    James Palladino backs from the notch.
    Looking into the Kellstone's notch.

    Reported by: Rex Cassidy




    Quick Loading at Clarkson

    09/21
    Sidsel Knutsen arrived in ballast from Sarnia over night Wednesday with a tug assisting, she departed eastbound just after noon hour on Thursday.

    Reported by: Bryan Ridley




    Toledo Marine Mart

    09/21
    A Marine Mart is scheduled for Saturday, September 22 at the International Park along side the Museum Ship Willis B. Boyer. Open from 10:00 a.m. to about 3:00 p.m., the event will give many people a chance to purchase Great Lakes Marine memorabilia and a chance to tour the Boyer.

    Reported by: Al Jackman




    Duluth Gathering

    09/21
    A weekend of boat watching and touring is planned for September 22-23 in Duluth. The weekend starts on Saturday with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet. The fleet's tour boats will take us up close to all the boat watching action in port Saturday afternoon at 12:30.

    Click here for more information.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 21

    ALGOWAY (2) left Collingwood on her maiden voyage in 1972 and loaded salt for Michipicoten, Ont. on Lake Superior.

    On 21 September 1844, JOHN JACOB ASTOR (wooden brig, 78’, 112T, Built in 1835 at Pointe Aux Pins, Ont, but precut at Lorain, OH) was carrying furs and trade goods when she struck a reef and foundered near Copper Harbor, MI. She was owned by Astor’s American Fur Company. She was reportedly by the first commercial vessel on Lake Superior.

    On 21 September 1855, ASIA (2-mast wooden schooner, 108', 204 t, built in 1848 at Black River, Ohio) was carrying corn from Chicago for Buffalo when she collided with the propeller FOREST CITY off the mouth of Grand Traverse Bay. ASIA went down in deep water in about 10 minutes, but her crew just had enough time to escape in her boat. The schooner HAMLET picked them up.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Dave 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




    Blough done for season, Speer may still return

    09/20
    The Roger Blough, laid up in Superior since mid-August, is done for the season, but USS Great Lakes Fleet still hopes the 1,000-foot Edgar B. Speer will return to service this fall.

    A fleet official told the Duluth News Tribune that the 858-foot Blough will not return to service this season because of declining demand for taconite pellets. The vessel, now laid up in Fraser Shipyards, may be moved to the Duluth port terminal this winter.

    However, the Speer, idled in Sturgeon Bay, may be put back in service in three to five weeks. Both vessels carry Minntac taconite pellets from Two Harbors to Gary, and both are victims of taconite producers trying to balance inventories with demand.

    "They're watching their inventories closely,'' James Skinner, Great Lakes Fleet's supervisor of marine operations, told the newspaper. "I think these lay-ups are reflective of the economy.''

    Through July, iron ore shipments on the Great Lakes were down 15 percent compared to 2000. Coal loadings also fell by 5.7 percent and stone shipments by 3.9 percent.

    Lake Carriers' Association spokesman Glen Nekvasil told the newspaper the Elton Hoyt II and Edward Ryerson haven't sailed this shipping season while six other vessels have been withdrawn from service at different times. Some have been laid up more than once.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Arcadia to be sold at auction

    09/20
    The Federal Court of Canada has ordered that the cruise ship Arcadia be sold at auction after it halted its season of Great Lakes cruising due to on-board health problems and the tour operator' s bankruptcy.

    "There was a motion by the crew members to have the vessel sold, apparently to get their back wages, " Ralph Diehl, president of the Great Lakes Cruises Inc., told the Detroit Free Press.

    Great Lakes, of Waukesha, Wis., was the company that had chartered the Greek ship Arcadia for lakes cruises but had to close its doors in early July after news reports that the ship had failed a series of health inspections.

    The 360-foot, 224-passenger ship was halted and emptied of passengers mid-cruise at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., on July 9, and is now docked in Montreal.

    While the Arcadia' s pending sale may bring back wages to the crew and payment to the ship' s agents and fuel suppliers, it was unlikely that money would be left to benefit the hundreds of passengers who paid deposits for cruises they could never take.

    Arcadia at Section 44 Wednesday.

    Reported by: Kent Malo




    Stinson Departs

    09/20
    The George A. Stinson departed the Graving dock at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday morning with the aid of Selvick Marine tugs. Strong north-west winds and heavy rain made the move a bit harder than normal for the tugs, the ship and the ship yard crew.

    The Stinson arrived at the yard Tuesday morning at 10:30 a.m. and departed 25 hours later, a very good turn around time for shaft seal repairs.

    As the Stinson departed the Captain thanked the yard crews on the radio and blew a salute to the yard and tugs.

    Pulled from the dock.
    Clear of dock engaging propellers.
    Dropping lines.
    Under its own power in shipping channel.
    Out bound to the Green Bay tug standing off to the side of channel.

    Reported by: Vic DeLarwelle




    Algowood unloads

    09/20
    Algowood was in Hancock, MI Wednesday to unload a partial cargo of salt at Mattila's dock. The cargo was loaded in Goderich with part being unloaded in Sault Ste. Marie and the remainder in Hancock. After unloading the Algowood then backed out of the Portage Canal to Lake Superior.

    Unloading.
    Close up of the salt cargo.
    Panoramic view.
    Backing down the canal.
    Close up.
    Heading for the lake.

    Reported by: Jim Noetzel




    Saginaw River Update

    09/20
    Despite stormy weather, five vessels paid calls to docks along the Saginaw River on Wednesday.

    The Wolverine arrived during the early morning hours heading for the Wirt dock in Bay City. She was followed into the river by her fleet mate David Z. Norton, which also had a load of stone for the same dock. The Norton intended to tie up at Essexville to wait for the Wolverine to clear, but may anchor out instead due to weather.

    The tug Dorothy Ann and barge Pathfinder arrived during the afternoon at the Bay Aggregates dock in downtown Bay City. The vessel departed the dock during the evening and was outbound from the airport turning basin at 9:35 p.m.

    The Mississagi arrived late in the afternoon at the Buena Vista Dock just above the I-75 Bridge, and her fleet mate Maumee arrived a short while later at the Sargent dock just below the Bridge.

    The Maumee was heard calling the Coast Guard several times for a water gage reading. She reported that she had not begun unloading due to low water levels and was still off the dock, but out of the shipping channel.

    The Mississagi departed the Buena Vista dock during the evening and was outbound from the 6th Street turning basin in Saginaw shortly after 9 p.m.

    Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey




    Detroit Traffic

    09/20
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Tuesday evening.

    Capt Ralph Tucker downbound at Grassy Island bound for the General Chemical Dock in Amherstburg.
    Stern view.
    Canadian Century downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    American Mariner downbound at Fighting Island North Light.
    Stern view.
    Courtney Burton downbound at Fighting Island North light.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Toledo Update

    09/20
    The Mantadoc was loading grain at Andersons "E" Elevator. The Algocen was loading grain at Andersons "K" Elevator. The tug James A. Hannah with her barge was at the Sun Oil Dock loading cargo. The passenger vessel Ste. Claire was in drydock at the Shipyard. The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock.

    The Canadian Transport finished loading coal and departed during the morning. The CSL Niagara was due in late Wednesday night to load coal. The Middletown was due in around 8:30 p.m. that evening at the Torco Dock to unload ore.

    The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the Algosteel and American Mariner on Thursday followed by the Canadian Transport on Saturday afternoon. The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Dock will be the Armco on Saturday morning followed by the Middletown on Tuesday evening.

    Classic Toledo images
    Mondoc downbound the Maumee River from the Cherry Street Bridge after loading a grain cargo at one of the Elevators up river.
    Walter A. Sterling sailing downbound the Maumee River from the Craig Bridge. She just departed her winter lay-up dock at the City Docks and is now sailing on her first trip of the season. She presently sails for the Interlake Fleet as the Lee A. Tregurtha.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman




    Clarkson News

    09/20
    Algoport sailed on Monday in ballast for Nova Scotia. She had been in on Monday with a cargo of gypsum.

    Tuesday morning Quebecois arrived at St. Lawrence Cement. This is her first trip to the port this season. As of Wednesday noon, she was still in the process of loading cargo at the cement company pier.

    At Petro Canada, the Jade Star was unloading. She came up the Seaway from Montreal on Monday. She must have arrived overnight Tuesday and as of noon Wednesday she was in the early stages of discharging cargo.

    Reported by: Bryan Ridley




    Quebec Update

    09/20
    Below are recent images of traffic in Quebec.

    P&O Liner Royal Princess at Alexandria pier.
    Stern view with flag at half mast.
    The arrested tug Hae dong Star .
    Smoke stack.
    Name board.
    Canadian Trader at Section 44 south in Montreal Harbor. If she does not leave under tow she will go to Three Rivers for use as grain storage for the winter.
    St. Lawrence seaway floating crane Grasse River normally based at Masena, N.Y. her partner tug Robinson Bay was not at the dock.
    Three Canadian Naval vessels, HMCS Kingston, Goose Bay, and the HMCS Moncton downbound St. Lambert Lock heading for Halifax, Nova Scotia.
    HMCS Kingston exiting the St. Lawrence Seaway calling in point 2 for the St Lawrence River.
    Comeaudoc on Sept. 18 silently awaiting her fate.
    Seaman's mission staff and seaman from the "Royal Princess" making phone calls home and enjoying a bit of relaxation.
    A quick game of pool.

    Reported by: Kent Malo




    Toledo Marine Mart

    09/20
    A Marine Mart is scheduled for Saturday, September 22 at the International Park along side the Museum Ship Willis B. Boyer. Open from 10:00 a.m. to about 3:00 p.m., the event will give many people a chance to purchase Great Lakes Marine memorabilia and a chance to tour the Boyer.

    Reported by: Al Jackman




    Duluth Gathering

    09/20
    A weekend of boat watching and touring is planned for September 22-23 in Duluth. The weekend starts on Saturday with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet. The fleet's tour boats will take us up close to all the boat watching action in port Saturday afternoon at 12:30.

    Click here for more information.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 20

    On September 20, 1986, vandals started a $5,000. fire aboard the laid up NIPIGON BAY at Kingston where she had been since April, 1984.

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

    On September 20, 1980, the EDGAR B. SPEER entered service.

    The CHARLES E. WILSON sailed light on her maiden voyage from Sturgeon Bay September 20, 1973 bound for Escanaba, MI to load ore.

    The CHARLES M. WHITE was christened at Baltimore on September 20, 1951.

    On 20 September 1873, W.L. PECK (2 mast wooden schooner-barge, 154’, 361GT) was launched at Carrollton, MI.

    On 20 September 1856, COLONEL CAMP (3-mast wooden bark, 137', 350 t, built in 1854 at Three Mile Bay, NY) was carrying wheat to Oswego, NY when she collided with the wooden steamer PLYMOUTH and sank in just a few minutes. No lives were lost.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Dave 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




    Trader Arrives

    09/19
    The tow of the Canadian Trader arrived in Montreal on Tuesday and is now docked at Section 44 South. Weather delayed the tow that took the straight decker from Toronto to Montreal. The ship will eventually be towed to China for scrapping.
    Tow in Lock 3 Beauharnois on Tuesday.
    Lead tug Progress with Capt Tim McKeil in the wheelhouse.

    Reported by: Kent Malo




    Stinson Enters Dry Dock

    09/19
    Tuesday morning the George A. Stinson arrived at Bay Ship Building in Sturgeon Bay. The Bay Ship graving dock crew had the dock flooded and awaiting the arrival of the Stinson. At 10:15 a.m. the thousand footer arrived, and with help from Selvick Marine tugs was placed in to the 1000-foot dry dock.

    The Stinson is reported to be in for repairs to a leaking starboard propeller hub, it is unknown how long it will remain on the dry dock.

    Stinson off Sherwood Point in Green Bay.
    Bow shot.
    Make a turn to back down the Bay.
    Selvick tug Jimmy L. after assisting the Stinson.
    Stinson in dock.
    Close up.

    Reported by: Vic DeLarwelle




    Lake Erie Coal Trade Still Lagging

    09/19
    Coal shipments from Lake Erie ports totaled 2,460,689 net tons in August, a decrease of 7.7 percent compared to the corresponding period last year. For the season, the Lake Erie coal trade stands at 11.1 million tons, a decrease of 18.9 percent. Coal availability problems continue to account for the lion's share of the decrease.

    Reported by: Lake Carriers' Association




    Progress Loads

    09/19
    Monday evening saw the Canadian Progress in the port of Milwaukee to load grain. This is the first time this ship has been to Milwaukee this year. The Herbert C Jackson also arrived at the port just at dusk to unload a shipment of coal for Wisconsin Energy.

    Reported by: Ben Wohlers




    Toledo Update

    09/19
    The Algocen was at Andersons "K" Elevator loading grain. The passenger vessel Ste. Claire remains in drydock at the Shipyard. The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock. The Canadian Transport was due in at the CSX docks to load coal late Tuesday evening.

    The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the American Mariner and CSL Niagara on Wednesday evening followed by the Algosteel on Thursday morning.

    The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Dock will be the Middletown on Wednesday evening followed by the Armco on Saturday morning.

    Classic Toledo images
    Henry Steinbrenner loading coal at the C&O #3 Dock.
    Lake Winnipeg loading a grain cargo at the Mid States Elevator.
    Soo River Trader sailing downbound the Maumee River with the tug Wyoming. She had just finished loading a grain cargo and is now bound for her next port of call in Canada.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman




    St. Lambert and Beauharnois Locks

    09/19
    Below are recent images of traffic passing the St. Lambert and Beauharnois Locks.
    Atlantic Erie downbound at Beauharnois.
    Fly flies at half mast.
    Jade Star upbound.
    Close up of the pilot house.
    Algowest silhouette below the St. Loius Bridge.
    Passing upbound through the bridge.
    HMCS Goose bay and Moncton at St. Lambert Lock.
    Close up.
    Vega Desgagnes in the St. Lambert Lock.

    Reported by: Kent Malo




    Connection Problems

    09/19
    The Boatnerd.com part of this web site has been experiencing a connection problem. A major Internet hub that services the Boatnerd.com server was causing the site to be unavailable at times on Tuesday.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 19

    LEON FALK, JR. and MENIHEK LAKE arrived in Spain on September 19, 1985 for scrapping.

    When SATURN (4) entered service and made her first trip to Toledo, OH on September 19, 1974, she became the first of three tankers built for the fleet's modernization program.

    The EDGAR B. SPEER departed the shipyard on her maiden voyage September 19, 1980 bound for Two Harbors, MN where she loaded her first cargo of taconite pellets.

    The GRAND HAVEN (Twin Screw Rail Car Ferry) was laid up in the spring of 1965 at the old Pennsylvania Dock at Cleveland and later at dockage on the Old River Bed where she sank on September 19, 1969.

    September 19, 1997 - officials at Lake Michigan Carferry, Inc. announced that the CITY OF MIDLAND 41 would be converted to a barge.

    On 19 September 1893, SAMUEL BOLTON (wooden schooner-barge, 150’, 330GT, built in 1867 at Bangor, MI as a schooner) was loaded with lumber and being towed in fog in Lake Huron. She got lost from the tow and drifted ashore near Richmond, MI where she broke in two and was then torn apart by waves. She was owned by Brazil Hoose of Detroit.

    On Saturday, 19 September 1891, at 11:00 AM, the whaleback steamer CHARLES W. WETMORE left Philadelphia, Pennsylvania loaded with the materials to build a nail mill, iron smelter and shipyard for the new city of Everett, Washington. Her skipper was Captain Joseph B. Hastings and she had a crew of 22.

    On 19 September 1900 the Great Lakes schooner S. L. WATSON foundered off Cape Cod. She had been sent to the Atlantic the previous autumn by her owned J. C. Gilchrist of Cleveland.

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




    Twin Ports Report

    09/18
    The Twin Ports' fall grain rush is well under way, with seven vessels in Superior and Duluth on the morning of Sept. 17 loading or waiting to load grain cargoes.

    Mapleglen, a rare visitor to the Twin Ports, was loading at Cenex Harvest States 2 while Dobrush was in the #1 berth. In Duluth, straight decker Canadian Miner was loading at AGP while Daviken was unloading steel coils at the Duluth port terminal before shifting to a grain berth. Anchored on the lake were salties Millenium Osprey, Marillis T., and Rubin Falcon, all waiting to load.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Detroit Traffic

    09/18
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Monday evening.

    Mathilde Oldendorff (Liberia) loading at the ADM Dock in Windsor.
    Stern view.
    Fred R White Jr. downbound off Zug Island drifting down waiting for the Kaye E Barker to depart the Rouge.
    Stern view.
    Truck ferry barge Lac St Jean and tug Stormont crossing to the dock in Delray.
    Close up of Stormont.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Toledo Update

    09/18
    The Algocen arrived Monday at Andersons "K" Elevator to load a grain cargo. The Jean Parisien was at the CSX Coal Docks loading coal. The passenger vessel Ste. Claire remains in drydock at the Shipyard.

    The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the Canadian Transport on Tuesday evening followed by the CSL Niagara and American Mariner on Wednesday evening. The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Docks will be the Middletown on Wednesday evening followed by the Armco on Saturday morning.

    Classic Toledo images
    Outarde upbound the Maumee River from the Cherry Street Bridge bound for one of the Elevators to load a grain cargo.
    Pierson Daughters loading a grain cargo at the Midstates Elevator. This vessel was recently purchased by the Soo River Company from the Interlake Steamship Company Fleet. She sailed for many years for this fleet as the Charles M. Schwab. Note the early color scheme used by the Soo River Company on this vessel.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman




    Toronto Update

    09/18:
    Monday was a slow day for traffic in the Toronto harbor. The French cruise ship Le Levant came in at dusk. The tug Glenmont's hull has been painted black. One third of the ferry Sam McBride's upper deck has been re-planked.

    Reported by: Gerry O.




    Brockville Traffic

    09/18:
    Below are images of traffic passing Brockville, ON in the Seaway Monday.

    The new Vega Desgagnes.
    HMCS Kingston underway below Iroquois.
    HMCS Moncton in the Iroquois Lock.
    Close up.
    Stern view.
    Vlieborg passing.

    Reported by: Peter Carter




    Duluth Gathering

    09/18
    A weekend of boat watching and touring is planned for September 22-23 in Duluth. The weekend starts on Saturday with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet. The fleet's tour boats will take us up close to all the boat watching action in port.

    Other planned events include a tour of the U.S. Coast Guard Base, the DMIR ore dock, Superior Midwest Energy Terminal, St. Lawrence Cement terminal and the opportunity to visit and tour the museum ships Meteor and William A Irvin.

    *Many of the tours have limited space available, be sure to register at the address below. Tours are available on a first come first serve basis.

    An update and schedule was e-mailed Monday night to all who have registered. Click here for more information.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 18

    The E.J. BLOCK returned to service on September 18, 1946 as the first large bulk freighter powered by a diesel-electric power plant and one of the first equipped with commercial radar on the Great Lakes.

    On September 18, 1959 the HENRY FORD II ran aground in the St. Marys River and damaged 18 bottom plates.

    On September 18, 1958 the BEN MOREELL (2) collided with and sank the car ferry ASHTABULA in the harbor at Ashtabula, OH.

    LAKE WINNIPEG was the first vessel to enter the Nipigon Transport fleet. She loaded her first cargo of 22,584 gross tons of iron ore clearing Sept Îles, Que. on September 18, 1962 bound for Cleveland.

    The Pere Marquette carferry City of Midland 41 was launched on September 18, 1940, at Manitowoc, WI. She was built by Manitowoc Shipbuilding Corporation at a cost of $2 million. She was named after Midland, MI for one of the Pere Marquette Railway's biggest customers, Dow Chemical Co. She was christened by Miss Helen Dow, daughter of Willard H. Dow, president of Dow Chemical Co.

    September 18, 1958 - The ASHTABULA sank after colliding with the Ben Moreel. Captain Louis Sabo in command.

    On 18 September 1871, E.B. ALLEN (wooden schooner, 111’, 275T, built in 1864 at Ogdensburg, NY) was carrying grain when she collided with the bark NEWSBOY and sank off Thunder Bay Island in Lake Huron.

    On 18 September 1900, the large steamer CAPTAIN THOMAS WILSON was taken from her launch site on the Black River in Port Huron out to the St. Clair River. The tug HAYNES was at the bow and the tug BOYNTON at the stern. It took an hour and a half to maneuver through the various bridges. Newspapers estimated that a couple thousand persons watched the event. Once the WILSON made it to the St. Clair River, she was towed to Jenks Shipbuilding Company where she was completed and received her machinery.

    On 18 September 1679, GRIFFON, the first sailing ship on the upper Lakes, left Green Bay with a cargo of furs. She left the explorer Robert Cavelier, Sieur de la Salle, behind. GRIFFON never reached her planned destination.

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




    Northshore Mining Co. to shut down for 8 weeks

    09/17
    Northshore Mining Co., one of North America's lowest-cost taconite producers, will halt its production of taconite pellets for eight weeks starting Oct. 14, the company announced.

    The shutdown will the company's mine in Babbitt, Minn., and its processing plant and shipping facility in Silver Bay, Minn. Northshore is largely served by vessels of Oglebay Norton Co. and Interlake Steamship Co. Many of Northshore's 500 employees will be laid off during the shutdown, although some will be retained to perform maintenance work.

    A spokesman for Cleveland Cliffs, which owns and operates Northshore Mining, said steelmakers have reduced their pellet inventories but that demand remains below normal.

    Northshore had been scheduled to produce 3.6 million tons of taconite pellets this year. The shutdown, along with an earlier idling of a pellet production line at the Silver Bay processing plant, will reduce 2001 production by about 700,000 tons. Northshore can produce up to 4.3 million tons a year.

    "Pellet demand is a direct indication of the slowing of the overall economy,'' Frank Ongaro Jr., president of the Iron Mining Association of Minnesota, told the Duluth News Tribune. "The growth in our national economy is slower than predicted and it looks like it will continue that way into next year.''

    Northshore is expected to resume operation Dec. 8, which may mean some taconite pellets would be shipped from the facility before the Great Lakes navigation season ends.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Escanaba Recap

    09/17
    Traffic for the first half of the shipping season (March 13 to August 15) at the ore dock in Escanaba was significantly lower than recent seasons which reflects the downturn in the steel industry. Ships made 109 total trips into port to load taking on approximately 2.9 million gross tons.

    Vessel name and number of visits
    Joseph L. Block (40)
    Wilfred Sykes (20)
    Joseph H. Thompson (11)
    Lee A. Tregurtha (9)
    Mesabi Miner (4)
    Charles M. Beeghly (4)
    Great Lakes Trader (4)
    Buckeye (3)
    Kaye E. Barker (3)
    Paul R. Tregurtha (2)
    Herbert C. Jackson (2)
    Courtney Burton (2)
    Middletown (2)
    Columbia Star (1)
    James R. Barker (1)
    Earl W. Oglebay (1)

    Joseph L. Block loading ore in Escanaba.

    Reported by: Rod Burdick




    Twin Ports Report

    09/17
    USS Great Lakes Fleet will have an unusually busy week in Duluth. Presque Isle loaded half a stone cargo at Calcite on Saturday and half at Port Dolomite on Sunday. It's due at the DMIR stone hopper on Tuesday. Cason J. Callaway was due at the DMIR stone hopper late Sunday. Once unloaded it will proceed to Two Harbors to load. Philip R. Clarke is due in Duluth at the Hallett 7 dock on Monday. Once it has unloaded, it will proceed to Two Habors to load on Monday.

    For other GLF vessels, the Edwin H. Gott is due in Two Harbors on Monday, Arthur M. Anderson is due at Calcite on Monday and John G. Munson is scheduled to load at Calcite on Tuesday.

    With the lay-up of the Roger Blough and Edgar B. Speer, the ship-a-day pace is slipped at the DMIR ore dock in Two Harbors. The line-up this week is Edwin H. Gott and Cason J. Callaway due in Sept. 17; Presque Isle due the 19th; St. Clair due on the 21st; Edwin H. Gott and John G. Munson due on the 23rd; and Armco due Sept. 24. This dock generally has served only GLF boats the past several years, but the St. Clair has become a regular there lately, and the Armco is a rare caller.

    In Duluth, the DMIR line-up is Frontenac, Philip R. Clarke and James R. Barker due on the 17th; Presque Isle due the 18th to unload stone; CSL Tadoussac due the 18th; Joe Block due Sept. 22 to unload stone and then load under the gravity chutes at west of 6; Frontenac due Sept. 24; and Philip R. Clarke returning Sept. 25.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Thunder Bay Pictures

    09/17
    Below are recent images from Thunder Bay.
    CanadianVenture at anchor.
    Stern view.
    Elikon arrives.
    Stern view.
    Life boat is lowered from the Lake Erie.
    Mantadoc loading.
    Oakglen in lay-up at Keefer.
    Stern view.
    Propellor tip on the Oakglen.
    Tug Sandra Mary at Keefer.
    Algowood loading.
    Vamand Wave loading at UGG a.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Rob Farrow




    Detroit Traffic

    09/17
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Sunday.

    Diamond Queen downbound at Nicholson's for the Wyandotte Channel.
    Stern view.
    Arcturus (Liberia) downbound at Fighting Island North Light.
    Stern view.
    Diamond Queen downbound at the Rouge Short Cut.
    Rt Hon Paul J Martin upbound off Zug Island.
    Stern view.
    Lee A Tregurtha downbound off Sterling Fuel.
    Stern view.
    barge PML 9000 & tug Alice A upbound off the old Rouge River entrance.
    Close up of Alice A.
    Stern view.
    c Columbus at Sterling Fuel Dock.
    Stern view.
    Joseph H Frantz upbound at the Rouge Short Cut Channel.
    Stern view.
    Mathilde Oldendorff (Liberia) at ADM Dock in Windsor.
    Stern view.
    Playfair downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Catherine Desgagnes downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Le Levant (France) downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Sarah Spencer & Jane Ann IV downbound at Grassy Island.
    Close up of the Jane Ann IV.
    Stern view.
    Southdown Challenger upbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Cleveland Update

    09/17
    The Southdown Challenger was departing Cleveland at 10:00 a.m. Sunday morning. The Gemini departed about noon. The Saltie Irma was still berthed at the Lakefront Terminal. The St. Marys II and Sea Eagle continued to unload at their river dock.

    Pictures from Saturday
    A small boat tempting fate as the Canadian Transfer heads inbound.
    Close up. Landing a crew member on the dock.
    Gemini arrives.
    Close up of the tug Idaho.
    Passing the Transfer.
    Irma at dock.
    Profile.

    Reported by: Rex Cassidy




    Welland Canal Traffic

    09/17
    Below are images of traffic on the Welland Canal Sunday.

    Rubin Lark at Port Colborne Piers.
    Rubin Lark at the Port Colborne fuel dock.
    Cuyahoga downbound at Port Colborne Piers.
    Stern view.
    Scrapping of the Toronto at Port Colborne.
    Another view.
    Close up.
    Wide view.
    Federal Maas approaching Homer bridge upbound.
    Stern view.
    Goldeneye exits Lock 3.
    Stern view.
    Vlieborg passing Goldeneye above Lock 3.
    Vlieborg close up.
    Close up of the company name.
    Stern view.
    New sections for next widening project at Port Weller.
    Another view.

    Reported by: Alex Howard




    Clarkson Update

    09/17
    Sunday afternoon Petrolia Desgagnes was in at Petro Canada. She entered the Seaway upbound at Montreal on Friday afternoon with a cargo of hydro cracker oil. As of mid afternoon, she was in the early stages of being unloaded

    Reported by: Bryan Ridley




    Toledo Marine Mart

    09/17
    A Marine Mart is scheduled for Saturday, September 22 at the International Park along side the Museum Ship Willis B. Boyer. Open from 10:00 a.m. to about 3:00 p.m., the event will give many people a chance to purchase Great Lakes Marine memorabilia and a chance to tour the Boyer.

    Reported by: Al Jackman




    Duluth Gathering

    09/17
    A weekend of boat watching and touring is planned for September 22-23 in Duluth. The weekend starts on Saturday with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet. The fleet's tour boats will take us up close to all the boat watching action in port.

    Other planned events include a tour of the U.S. Coast Guard Base, the DMIR ore dock, Superior Midwest Energy Terminal, St. Lawrence Cement terminal and the opportunity to visit and tour the museum ships Meteor and William A Irvin.

    *Many of the tours have limited space available, be sure to register at the address below. Tours are available on a first come first serve basis.

    An update and schedule will be e-mailed Monday night to all who have registered. Click here for more information.




    Weekly Updates

    09/17
    The regular weekly updates are now available. Click here to view




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 17

    EVA DESGAGNES was launched September 17, 1955 as a) GRIFFON (2) for Beaconsfield Steamship Ltd., Montreal, Que.

    On September 17, 1985, PATERSON suffered a crank case explosion as she was bound for Quebec City from Montreal. She was repaired and cleared on September 21.

    On 17 September 1830, WILLIAM PEACOCK (wood sidewheel steamer, 102’, 120T, built in 1829 at Barcelona, NY) suffered the first major boiler explosion on Lake Erie while she was docked in Buffalo, NY. 15 - 30 lives were lost. She was rebuilt two years later and eventually foundered in a storm in 1835 near Ripley, OH.

    On 17 September 1875, the barge HARMONY was wrecked in a gale at Chicago by colliding with the north pier which was under water. This was the same place where the schooner ONONGA was wrecked a week earlier and HARMONY came in contact with that sunken schooner. No lives were lost.

    On 17 September 1900, a storm carried away the cabin and masts of the wrecked wooden 4-mast bulk freight barge FONTANA. The 231-foot vessel had been wrecked and sunk in a collision at the mouth of the St. Clair River in the St. Clair Flats on 3 August 1900. She had settled in the mud and gradually shifted her position. She eventually broke in two. After unsuccessful salvage attempts, the wreck was dynamited.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, James Neumiller, 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




    Trader Tow

    09/16
    The tow of the Canadian Trader continued Saturday and the tow was due at Cross Over Island about 1:00 a.m. this morning. The weather forecast is calling for fog to form on the river over night, and if it does the tow may be forced to anchor.

    Tugs towing the vessel to Montreal include the Josee M, Progress and Lac Vancouver.

    Picture of the tow departing Friday by Gerry O.
    Trader is towed from Toronto Friday.
    Josee M. on the bow.
    Progress on the stern.
    Close up of the tug Progress.
    Saltie Lake Ontario.
    Alison Lake on the Toronto Dry Dock.

    Reported by: Ron Beaupre, Gerry O. and Jimmy Sprunt




    Crew Members Give Blood

    09/16
    The Wolverine stopped in Sandusky Friday morning to load coal and most of its crew went to blooddrives at hospitals in the area, to give blood to help the terrorist victims in New York and Washington.

    Click here to read the story from the Sandusky Register.

    Reported by: Steven Myers and Don Lee




    Stoneboats Return

    09/16
    Since the James Norris went into mid season lay-up in Toronto at the end of August there has been no stone traffic at the St. Lawrence Cement plant in Clarkson, Ontario.

    Saturday afternoon the Algowood was in. She is the first load in since August. She went eastbound down the Seaway last Thursday bound for Sydney, Nova Scotia from Hamilton. Thursday she entered the Seaway westbound from Sydney, arriving in Clarkson Saturday with approximately 30,000 tons of gypsum.

    Reported by: Bryan Ridley




    Detroit Traffic

    09/16
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Friday and Saturday.

    American Republic downbound off Nicholson's.
    Stern view.
    Kaye E Barker outbound at the Short Cut bridge.
    Armco at Sterling Fuel Dock in Windsor.
    Theodore Too docked in Windsor.
    Kaye E Barker upbound at the Ambassador Bridge.
    Stern view.
    Federal Welland (Hong Kong) in Ojibway Anchorage.
    Stern view.
    Algorail upbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Canadian Transfer downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Vlistborg, (Holland) downbound off Zug Island.
    Stern view.
    Sidsel Knutsen & J W Westcott II upbound at the Post Office.
    Theodore Too and Curtis Randolph downbound at Joe Louis Arena.
    Close up.
    Another view.
    Stern view.
    Detroit Fire Boat Curtis Randolph.

    Pictures from Friday
    Frontenac upbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Vamand Wave (Cyprus) downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Flowers floating down the river. There was a Memorial Service in Windsor and the flowers were downbound past Grassy Island. It was a very touching scene. Thanks Canada.
    Philip R Clarke loading at Ojibway Salt.
    Stern view.
    Barge Pennsylvania & tug Salvor at the Morterm Dock in Windsor, ON.
    Close up of the tug.
    Stern view.
    Columbia in Nicholson's Slip.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Toledo News

    09/16
    The Cuyahoga with the G tug Illinois assisting arrived at one of the Anderson grain elevator complexes on Friday evening to load grain. She was expected to depart later on Saturday. The CSL Niagara was expected in late Saturday night to load coal at the CSX Coal Docks. The passenger vessel Ste Claire remains in drydock at the Shipyard. The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock.

    The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will now be the Jean Parisien on Monday morning, followed by the Canadian Transport, American Mariner, and Algosteel on Tuesday. The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Dock will be the Middletown on Thursday, followed by the Armco on Saturday.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman




    Cleveland Report

    09/16
    The barge St. Marys II and tug Sea Eagle were unloading on the Cuyahoga River Saturday afternoon. The saltie Irma was berthed at the Ceres docks. The Canadian Transfer arrived off Cleveland at 4:30 p.m. and proceeded to Dock 20. She was delivering stone from Meldrum Bay. After a short unload she was due to move upriver to complete her unload near West 3rd Street. The Canadian Transfer had both US and Canadian flags at half mast.

    After the ship docked customs officials made a brief dock visit with the crew. The Gemini arrived shortly after the Transfer and was assisted upriver by the G tug Idaho on the bow.

    Reported by: Rex Cassidy




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 16

    At about 8:30 a.m. Sunday, September 16, 1990 the inbound motor ship BUFFALO passed close by while JUPITER was unloading unleaded gasoline at the Total Petroleum dock in the Saginaw River near Bay City, MI. The suction of BUFFALO's propellers caused the JUPITER, which was facing upriver, to pull away from the dock. As a result the aft pilings broke off and the fuel lines parted which caused a spark and ignited the spilled fuel. At the time 22,000 barrels of a total of 54,000 barrels were still aboard. Flames catapulted over 100 feet high filling the air with smoke that could be seen for 50 miles. The fire was still burning the next morning when a six man crew from Williams, Boots & Coots Firefighters and Hazard Control Specialists of Port Neches, TX arrived to fight the fire. By Monday afternoon they extinguished the fire only to have it re-ignite that night resulting in multiple explosions. Not until Tuesday morning on the 18th was the fire finally subdued with the assistance of the U.S. Coast Guard's BRAMBLE and BRISTOL BAY. The tanker, which was valued at $9 million, was declared a total constructive loss, though the engine room was relatively untouched. Unfortunately the fire claimed the life of one crew member who drowned attempting to swim ashore. As a result the Coast Guard closed the river to all navigation. On October 19th the river was opened to navigation after the Gaelic tugs SUSAN HOEY and CAROLYN HOEY towed the JUPITER up river to the Hirschfield & Sons dock at Bay City (formerly the DeFoe Shipyard) where a crane was erected for dismantling the burned out hulk. Her engines were removed and shipped to New Bedford, MA for future use. The river opening allowed American S.S.'s BUFFALO to depart the LaFarge dock where she had been trapped since the explosion. JUPITER's dismantling was completed over the winter of 1990-91.

    P & H purchased all nine of the Soo River's fleet on September 16, 1982 for a reported C$2.5 million and all nine returned to service, although only four were running at the end of the season.

    NORISLE went into service September 16, 1946 as the first Canadian passenger ship commissioned since the NORONIC's commissioning in 1913.

    On September 16, 1952, the Cason J. Callaway departed River Rouge, Michigan for Duluth on its maiden voyage.

    On 16 September 1895, ARCTIC (2 mast wooden schooner, 113’, 85GT, built in 1853 at Ashtabula, OH) was rammed and sunk by the steamer CLYDE in broad daylight and calm weather. ARCTIC was almost cut in half by the blow. The skipper of CLYDE was censured for the wreck and for his callous treatment of the schooner’s crew afterwards. Luckily no lives were lost.

    On 16 September 1877, the little tug (46') RED RIBBON, owned by W. H. Morris of Port Huron, burned about 2 miles below St. Clair, Michigan. Capt. Morris ran the tug ashore and hurried to St. Clair to get assistance, but officials there refused to allow the steam fire engine to go outside the city. The tug was a total loss and was only insured for $1,000, half her value. She had just started in service in May of 1877 and was named for the reform movement that was in full swing at the time of her launch.

    On 16 September 1900, LULU BEATRICE (2-mast wooden schooner, 72’, 48 gc, built in 1896 at Port Burwell, Ontario) was carrying coal on Lake Erie when she was wrecked on the shore near the harbor entrance at Port Burwell in a storm. One life was lost, the captain’s wife.

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




    Trader Tow

    09/15
    Canadian Trader departed Toronto Friday afternoon about 1:45 p.m. It departed via the East Gap under tow of the tugs Josee M on the bow and Progress on the stern. It was reported to be heading to Montreal where it is expected to arrive on Sunday.

    It is unknown how long the Trader will remain in Montreal, her ultimate destination is China for scrapping. The company that owns the tug that is expected to tow the Trader to China is reported to be having financial problems. If the tow cannot be completed before the fall it could remain in a St. Lawrence River port over the winter.

    The straight deck bulk carrier last sailed in 1999 and had been in lay-up in Toronto since Dec. 23, 1999.

    Canadian Trader at Port Colborne on November 7, 1999. Jason LaDue

    Reported by: Jimmy Sprunt and Gerry O.




    Theodore Too in Windsor

    09/15
    The tug Theodore Too is open for tours in Windsor this weekend. The tug will be open for tours from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

    With heavy traffic at the boarder crossings, the tug will sail past of Detroit for this evening for Detroit families who might have difficulties crossing the boarder. Theodore will begin at the Ambassador Bridge at 6:00 p.m. and travel to the West End of Belle Isle, arriving at about 6:30 p.m.

    Next weekend Theodore will make a stop in Sandusky for tours.

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

    Reported by: Kenneth Borg




    Unloading Continues

    09/15
    Work continues in Hamilton as crews are offloading the grain cargo from the Windoc into the Canadian Provider. Considerable progress has been made transferring the cargo since Monday. The Windoc's deck is now even with the deck of the Canadian Provider.

    Once the offloading is complete the Provider will proceed to a St. Lawrence River Port to unload the cargo. No official announcement has been made on the future of the Windoc.

    Pictures by Michael deBoerSap
    Off loading the cargo.
    Another view.

    Reported by: Patricia Burgon and Jimmy Sprunt




    Hercules Towed

    09/15
    The heavy lift barge Hercules was towed from the Welland Canal Friday as it heads back to Montreal. The tug Carrol C 1 took the barge under tow that morning after it spent Thursday test raising spare gates below Lock 1. Seaway workers were practicing the replacement of a lock gate. Local news reported this was the first test lift in 16 years.

    Reported by: Jimmy Sprunt




    Tucker Departs

    09/15
    The Capt. Ralph Tucker was on the move Thursday night and stopped at Sterling Fuel departing upbound at 9:00 p.m. The Tucker experienced an engine problem on Wednesday and was towed to its unloading dock on the lower Detroit River.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Toledo Report

    09/15
    The Reserve was at the Torco Dock unloading ore. The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock. The passenger vessel Ste. Claire was in drydock at the Shipyard. There was also a "Bay" class 140 foot USCG icebreaker tied up at the river dock area of the Shipyard (possibly Neah Bay). The USCGC Mackinaw departed Toledo on Thursday.

    The next scheduled coal vessels due in at the CSX Docks will be the CSL Niagara on Saturday evening. The Algobay on Monday morning, followed by the Canadian Transport, American Mariner, and Algosteel on Tuesday. The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Dock will be the Middletown on Thursday morning, followed by the Armco on Saturday morning.

    Classic view of Toledo Shipping
    Joseph S. Young loading coal at the C&O #3 Dock.
    Robert C. Norton during spring fitout at the Hocking Valley Dock. Several days later she will be out sailing.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman




    Erie News

    09/15
    Erie Sand and Gravel has decided to temporarily lay-up the J.S. St John and pressing the John R. Emery into service. The St John laid up across from the Day Peckinpagh at the Old Ore Dock. Crew members said that they believe neither the Emery nor Peckinpaugh are for sale.

    St John Shifts to lay-up.
    Emery at dock.
    St John and Emery at dock.

    Reported by: Jeff Thoreson




    Hamilton Update

    09/15
    Friday morning the CSL Tadoussac arrived at Stelco to unload iron ore pellets at 8:00 a.m.. Shortly after the vessel arrived, it was refueled by the Hamilton Energy. The Tadoussac finished unloading and left Stelco later that afternoon.

    Two Canadian naval vessels are docked at Pier 9 in front of the armed forces base. HMCS Moncton, HMCS Kingston and HMCS Goose Bay were in port Friday.

    The tug Atomic and the Hamilton Police Marine unit transited the Burlington Ship Canal into Hamilton Harbor at 7:05 p.m.

    Reported by: Patricia Burgon




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 15

    The A.H. FERBERT (2) was towed out of Duluth by the Sandrin tug GLENADA September 15, 1987, they encountered rough weather on Lake Superior and required the assistance of the another tug to reach the Soo on the 19th. On the 21st the FERBERT had to anchor off Detour, MI after she had run aground in the St. Marys River when her towline parted. Her hull was punctured and the Coast Guard ordered repairs to her hull before she could continue. Again problems struck on September 24th, when the FERBERT went hard aground at the Cut-Off Channel's southeast bend of the St. Clair River. Six tugs, GLENADA, ELMORE M. MISNER, BARBARA ANN, GLENSIDE, SHANNON and WM. A. WHITNEY, worked until late on the 26th to free her. The FERBERT finally arrived in tow of GLENSIDE and W.N. TWOLAN at Lauzon, Que. on October 7th.

    The FERNGLEN was launched September 15, 1917 as a) WILLIAM A. AMBERG.

    On September 15, 1925 the JOHN A. TOPPING left River Rouge light on her maiden voyage to Ashland, WI to load iron ore for delivery to Cleveland, OH.

    September 15th lightering was completed on the AUGUST ZIESING, she had grounded above the Rock Cut two days earlier blocking the channel.

    September 15, 1959 was the last day the U.S. Coast Guard Buoy Tender MESQUITE was stationed at Sault Ste. Marie, MI.

    MIDDLETOWN suffered a fire in her tunnels on September 15, 1986. 2nd & 3rd degree burns were suffered by two crewmembers.

    In 1934 the ANN ARBOR NO. 6 collided with the steamer N.F. LEOPOLD in a heavy fog.

    September 15, 1993 - Robert Manglitz became CEO and president of Lake Michigan Carferry Service after Charles Conrad announced his retirement and the sale of most of his stock.

    On 15 September 1873, IRONSIDES (wooden propeller passenger/package freight vessel, 220', 1123 t, built in 1864 at Cleveland) became disabled when she sprang a leak and flooded. The water poured in and put out her fires. She sank about 7 miles off Grand haven, Michigan on Lake Michigan. Reports of the number of survivors varied from 17 to 32 and the number lost varied from 18 to 28.

    On 15 September 1872, A.J. BEMIS (wood propeller tug, 49T, built in 1859 at Buffalo) caught fire while underway. The fire originated under her boiler. She ran for shore but sank ¾ mile short, about 6 miles from Alpena, MI. No lives lost.

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




    Trader Moved

    09/14
    Shortly after 12:30 p.m. Thursday the Canadian Trader was moved in the Toronto Harbor. It was pulled away from the Seaway Queen and docked at the West face of Pier 35 as it prepares for the tow out of port. The Trader may be towed to Hamilton and take on part of the Windoc's grain cargo. It will then be towed to Montreal and finally to China for scrapping.

    Reported by: Chris Boyd




    Saginaw Loads

    09/14
    Saginaw arrived on Tuesday at Kelleys Island to load 9500 tons of stone for Kingsville. It finished loading and departed about 4:30 p.m. for Kingsville, Ontario and then on to Fairport.

    Saginaw loading.

    Reported by: Jack Lamb




    Port of Duluth

    09/14
    Although heightened security precautions instituted Tuesday by the Coast Guard Marine Safety Office remained in effect Thursday, all cargo facilities in the Port of Duluth-Superior remain open in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks.

    The Port’s U.S. Customs Service is on Level One Alert Status and has augmented its staff for the “entry, clearance and cargo processing of all vessels,” and the “inspection and clearance of all international cargo.”

    Vessel traffic scheduled for the Duluth-Superior harbor today is as follows:
    U.S.-flag Mesabi Miner at Duluth Missabe & Iron Range Railway for taconite
    U.S.-flag Columbia Star at Superior’s Burlington Northern Santa Fe for taconite
    U.S.-flag George A. Stinson at Murphy Oil USA, Inc., Duluth Marine Terminal to fuel, then due 1 p.m. at Superior’s Burlington Northern Santa Fe for taconite (will berth at Clure Public Marine Terminal Dock No. 4 if BNSF still occupied)
    Canadian-flag Algolake due 1 p.m. at Murphy Oil USA, Inc., Duluth Marine Terminal to fuel, then proceeding to Superior’s Midwest Energy Resources Company for coal
    Dutch-flag Vlieborg at Duluth’s General Mills for grain
    Panamanian-flag Rubin Lark at Superior’s Peavey-Connor’s Point for grain
    Canadian-flag Montrealais at Superior’s Harvest States for grain
    Cayman Islands-flag Millenium Osprey at anchor-due later at Superior’s Harvest States for grain

    Reported by: Lisa Marciniak




    Barge Working in the Welland

    09/14
    The heavy lift barge Hercules was towed to the Welland Canal this week by the tug Carrol C 1. The barge is owned by the St. Lawrence Seaway and was towed from Montreal Harbor. It arrived on Thursday and was test raising spare gates below Lock 1.

    Reported by: Jimmy Sprunt




    Saginaw River News

    09/14
    The Agawa Canyon entered the Saginaw River at about midnight Thursday and was upbound during the night to the GM dock at Saginaw. She arrived at the dock at about 4:00 a.m. and departed shortly after 10:00 a.m.

    The tug Jacklyn M. and barge Integrity was upbound at the airport near Bay City at about noon Thursday, going to the Lafarge terminal at Saginaw. The outbound Agawa Canyon tied up near the I-75 Bridge to allow the Jacklyn M to pass.

    Pictures by Todd Shorkey
    Jacklyn M./Integrity upbound at Bay Aggregates.
    Jacklyn M. close up.
    Stern view.
    Agawa Canyon downbound at Veteran's Bridge.
    Lone Flag Flying at Half Mast on the Canyon.
    Agawa Canyon passing through Veteran's Bridge.

    Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey




    Detroit Traffic

    09/14
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Wednesday.

    Philip R Clarke downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Lac St Jean & Stormont arriving in Delray with a full barge load of trucks. They have extended their work day until midnight because of delays at customs.
    Doug McKeil & Paul E No 1 towing Capt Ralph Tucker down from the Ford Dock in Walkerville to the General Chemical Dock in Amherstburg.
    Close up of the Tucker.
    Stern view.
    Doug McKeil.
    Stern view.
    Paul E No 1.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Lorain Update

    09/14
    Thursday the Cuyahoga was inbound Lorain about 2:00 p.m. On Wednesday the James R. Barker was unloading taconite at the LTV Pellet Terminal.

    Pictures by TZ.
    Cuyahoga inbound.
    Close up of bow.
    Stern view.
    James R. Barker unloads.
    Close up.

    Reported by: Rex Cassidy




    Concert Cancelled

    09/14
    The Lee Murdock Benefit Concert scheduled for Sept. 15 and the Children's Concerts Sept. 16 onboard the museum ship William G. Mather in Cleveland have been cancelled. The Mather hopes to reschedule the events for later this year.

    Reported by: Rex Cassidy




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 14

    The CLARENCE B. RANDALL (2) was launched September 14, 1907 as a) J.J. SULLIVAN for the Superior Steamship Co.

    On 14 September 1871, R.J. CARNEY (wooden barge, 150’, 397GT) was launched at Saginaw, MI.

    The 203' wooden schooner KATE WINSLOW was launched at J. Davidson's yard in E. Saginaw, Michigan on 14 September 1872.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, James Neumiller, 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




    Columbus cancels Great Lakes cruise

    09/13
    The nationwide air traffic shutdown has forced the German cruise ship Columbus to cancel one of four Great Lakes cruises because passengers in Europe cannot reach the United States in time, according to a news release from the Duluth Seaway Port Authority.

    About 350 passengers were scheduled to depart Frankfurt, Germany, on Tuesday bound for Chicago. There they were to board the Columbus for a sold-out Chicago-to-Windsor cruise that included calls at Traverse City, Mackinac Island, Duluth, Bayfield, Sault Ste. Marie, Owen Sound, Midland, and Goderich.

    The Columbus entered the Great Lakes in August to begin four seven-night Great Lakes cruises for North American passengers chartered by the Great Lakes Cruise Company of Ann Arbor, Mich., a division of Conlin Travel. The two remaining cruises are scheduled to take place as planned on Sept. 22-29 and Sept. 29-Oct. 6.

    For Duluth, the Columbus' cancellation marks the second cruise vessel cancellation this year. The Greek-flag Arcadia, a 225-passenger ship that was to embark on 24 Great Lakes cruises in 2001, was cancelled in July after the vessel had trouble meeting U.S. health regulations.

    "The outlook for cruise vessel calls in 2002 looks a bit brighter," said Barb Oswell, director of packaged travel and international/domestic sales for the Duluth Convention and Visitors Bureau and member of the Duluth-Superior Cruise Committee.

    "Our efforts to establish Duluth as an embarkation/debarkation point for visiting cruise vessels will pay off with the new U.S.-flag cruise vessel Cape May Light scheduled to call here twice."

    The Cape May Light, a 224-passenger vessel owned by American Classic Voyages, Co., and operated by Delta Queen Coastal Voyages of New Orleans, was christened in May 2001 in Virginia. She and her sister ship, the Cape Cod Light (to enter service late this year) will offer a total of 28 Great Lakes cruises starting in early June and ending in mid-September. Their itineraries include two seven-night trips from Chicago to Duluth and two seven-night trips from Duluth to Detroit.

    Reported by: Al Miller and Lisa Marciniak




    Trader Remains in Toronto

    09/13
    The Canadian Trader remained in Toronto Wednesday afternoon as it is expected to be towed in the near future. The straight deck bulk carrier last sailed in 1999 and has been in lay-up in Toronto since Dec. 23, 1999. It will be towed to Montreal and then to China for scrapping.

    Reported by: Chris Boyd




    Laurentien in for Repairs

    09/13
    CSL Laurentien is in Port Weller Dry Docks for repairs to damage suffered when the ship went aground last week. The SeawayMax freighter loaded taconite in Duluth on Sept. 3 and was damaged on the trip downbound. It unloaded in Nanticoke and then sailed for the dry dock.

    The extent of damage is not known, but the ship is reported to be holed at the stern below the engine.

    Reported by: Roger Tottman




    Port of Duluth-Superior Security

    09/13
    Although heightened security precautions instituted Tuesday by the Coast Guard Marine Safety Office remained in effect Wednesday, all cargo facilities in the Port of Duluth-Superior remain open in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks in New York City and Washington, D.C.

    The Army Corps of Engineers announced Wednesday that it will allow ocean ships passage through the Soo Locks at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., on an individual basis as approved by the Coast Guard. The Army Corps had closed the Soo Locks to ocean ships as of 11:00 a.m. CDT Tuesday. The closure did not affect U.S. and Canadian lake vessels.

    The U.S. St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. announced Wednesday that it will stop all foreign-registry ships prior to transit through the Snell and Eisenhower Locks at Massena, N.Y., for “inspection to ensure the safety of Seaway structures.” The Seaway Corp. had closed the Eisenhower and Snell Locks to all traffic on Tuesday. The Canadian locks in the Seaway and Welland Canal remain open for traffic.

    Vessel traffic scheduled for the Duluth-Superior harbor Wednesday was:
    U.S.-flag Buckeye at Superior’s Cutler-Magner Company discharging limestone
    U.S.-flag Walter J. McCarthy Jr. at Superior’s Midwest Energy Resources Company for coal, with Canadian-flag Jean Parisien and Canadian Navigator due later
    U.S.-flag Stewart J. Cort due 2:30 p.m. at Superior’s Burlington Northern Santa Fe for taconite
    Dutch-flag Vlieborg at Duluth’s General Mills for grain
    Panamanian-flag Rubin Lark at Superior’s Peavey-Connor’s Point for grain
    Canadian-flag Montrealais at Superior’s Harvest States for grain
    Cayman Islands-flag Millenium Osprey at anchor-due 10 p.m. at Superior’s Harvest States for grain


    Reported by: Lisa Marciniak




    Unloading the Windoc

    09/13
    Work continues in Hamilton as crews are offloading the grain cargo from the Windoc into the Canadian Provider. The Provider was towed to Hamilton from Toronto on Sunday and will take part or all of the cargo from the Windoc. After the transfer is complete the Provider will be towed to Montreal.

    Pictures by Michael deBoerSap
    Off loading the cargo.
    Another view.




    Tucker under tow

    09/13
    The tanker Capt. Ralph Tucker was under tow on the Detroit River Wednesday evening. The crew reports that a problem with an engine turbo charger caused the vessel to need assistance. The tugs Doug McKeil and Paul E. No 1 took the Tucker from the Ford Dock in Walkerville to the Allied Chemical Dock in Amherstburg. The crew expected to make repairs while at the Amherstburg dock.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Marinette Unloads

    09/13
    The Marinette arrived with a cargo of lumber over the weekend and is docked at the K&K South Dock. The Selvick tugd Jimmy L. and Carla Anne Selvick are tied up at K&K North Dock.

    Stern view of the Marinette at K&K dock.
    Menekaunee Bridge with the Vlieborg and Donner.
    Selvick tugs Jimmy L and Carla Anne Selvick.
    Wide view of the Marinette at dock.
    Lumber stacked along the K&K Warehouse.
    Marinette's deckhouse.
    Lumber in the hold of the Marinette.

    Reported by: Scott Best




    Alpena Update

    09/13
    The tug Jacklyn M. and barge Integrity was loading in Alpena Wednesday afternoon. The Alpena was waiting at anchor in Thunder Bay (off Alpena) for the departure of the Integrity.

    Paul H. Townsend is still in lay-up and is not scheduled to depart until later this month.

    The J.A.W Iglehart is making a rare trip to Superior.

    Fred White Jr. was expected to arrive at the Lafarge Coal Dock in Alpena some time early Wednesday morning to unload.

    Reported by: Ben and Chanda McClain




    Port Huron Traffic

    09/13
    Below are images of traffic passing on the St. Clair River Wednesday. All ships were of Canadian and American registry flying flags at half mast.

    Pictures by Andy Severson
    McKee Sons and tug Invincible fueling at Shell.
    CSL Tadoussac downbound.
    Canadian Transfer downbound at St. Clair.
    Tug Dorothy Ann and barge Pathfinder downbound under the Blue Water Bridges.
    Close up of the tug.
    David Z. Norton downbound.
    Fred R White Jr.
    McKee Sons upbound.
    Philip R. Clarke passing.
    Rebecca Lynn upbound towing its barge.
    Close up of the Rebecca Lynn.
    Arthur M. Anderson downbound.

    Pictures by Clayton Sharrard
    Oglebay Norton downbound.
    Stern view.





    Detroit Traffic

    09/13
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Wednesday.

    David Z Norton downbound at the Rouge River entrance.
    Stern view.
    Island Skipper (Greece) loading at the ADM Dock in Windsor. She departed at 10:00 p.m. with a load of soy meal for Algeria.
    Stern view.
    Dobrush (Ukraine) in Ojibway Anchorage.

    Pictures from Tuesday
    Gemini downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.

    Pictures from Monday
    Capt Henry Jackman upbound at Fighting Island North Light.
    Stern view.
    John G. Munson downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Gemini upbound with gasoline & fuel oil for Bay City.
    Close up of bow.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 13

    The EDMUND FITZGERALD's sea trials occurred on September 13, 1958.

    The HOFFMAN (United States Army Corps of Engineers Twin Screw Hopper Dredge) collided with the Japanese salty KUNISHIMA MARU at Toledo, OH, September 13, 1962. Reportedly the blame was placed on the pilot of the Japanese salty. Apparently the damage was minor.

    On September 13, 1968 the AUGUST ZIESING grounded in fog two-hundred yards above the Rock Cut in the St. Marys River. The grounded vessel swung into the shipping channel blocking it until September 15th when lightering was completed.

    September 13, 1953 - The PERE MARQUETTE 22 made her second maiden voyage since she was new in 1924. She was cut in half, lengthened, had new boilers and engines installed.

    On 13 September 1875, CITY OF BUFFALO (wooden schooner, 91’, 128T, built in 1859 at Buffalo as a propeller canal boat) beached and sank after striking a rock in the St. Mary’s River. The tug MAGNET worked for days to release her before she went to pieces on 19 September. No lives were lost.

    On 13 September 1871, the bark S. D. POMEROY was anchored off Menominee, Michigan during a storm. Archie Dickie, James Steele, John Davidson and James Mechie were seen to lower the yawl to go to shore. Later the empty yawl drifted ashore and then the bodies of all four men floated in.

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




    Former Bob-Lo Boat Enters Dry Dock

    09/12
    The former Bob-Lo steamer Ste. Claire was towed from Nicholson's north slip in Detroit early Tuesday morning. Tugs from the Gaelic Tugboat Company took the classic steamer to Toledo Shiprepair where it arrived on Tuesday afternoon and was immediately placed on the dry dock.

    Tug crews departed the Gaelic yard in the Rouge River before 5:00 a.m. and made the short trip to Nicholson's Terminal to make up the tow. The tug Shannon was the lead towing tug with the tug Patricia Hoey tailing off down the Detroit River. At the Detroit River Light the Patricia was released and the Shannon continued downbound with the tow.

    At the Toledo Lighthouse the tow was met by the tug Susan Hoey to assist into the dry dock. The tow passed quickly up the Maumee River and arrived at the dry dock about 11:45 a.m. Ship yard crews had the dry dock prepared and the gate open as the tow arrived. Using the two tugs and shore powered winches, the Ste. Claire was docked and moved into the dry dock by 12:30 p.m.

    The former Bob-Lo boat was sold on Monday by the Steamer Ste. Claire Foundation of Detroit to the Ste. Claire Foundation of Cleveland. It is on the dry dock for survey and maintenance and is expected to remain there for about a week. After the survey is complete the Ste Claire will be towed to another dock on the Maumee River.

    There crews will work on refurbishing the ship for at least 10 months for an unknown use. It is unlikely the ship will ever sail under its own power but it could be used as a water front attraction.

    Private Investors from Ohio and Michigan are financing the venture to restore the vessel. Diane Evon, spokesperson for the Ste. Claire became enamored with "the Claire", nearly 2 years ago when she discovered it fading away in a storage location in Detroit. According to a press release by the group, Ms. Evon's passion is to restore beautiful items of historical value and she just couldn't look the other way when she witnessed the decay and despair of this beautiful ship.

    The Ste Claire was built in 1910 by the Toledo Ship Building Co. and launched May 7, 1910. The steamer was built to ferry passengers between Detroit and Bob-Lo Island. It had been in lay-up at Nicholson's Terminal since September 2, 1991.

    Pictures by N. Schultheiss
    Tugs prepare for the tow at the Gaelic tug yard on the Rouge River about 4:30 a.m.
    Preparing the tow from Nicholson's Terminal.
    Capt. of the Patricia, Bill Cline (right), discusses the tow onboard the Ste. Claire. Power is provided by a portable generator.

    The Ste. Claire is docked with its bow at the north end of the slip. The Patricia Hoey will pull from the stern and the Shannon will tow on the port side of the ship. Once in the Detroit River the Shannon will pull from the Ste. Clair's bow.
    Takeing the tow out "on the hip" of the Shannon.
    Former fleet mate Columbia is left in Detroit facing an uncertain future.
    Engineer Andy Trynka (left) prepares to release the lines.
    Mate John Spezia watchers the tow line.
    We head downbound.
    Capt. Mac McCarty in the pilothouse of the Shannon.
    Sun rises over Fighting Island in the Detroit River.
    As we pass Grassy Island Mike Nicholls is at anchor waiting.
    He passes us to get a bow shot.

    Pictures by Mike Nicholls
    Tow passing Grassy Island.
    Close up of the Ste. Claire.
    Stern view.
    Close up the tug Shannon.
    Stern view.
    Patricia Hoey on the stern of the Ste. Claire.
    Stern view.
    The tow continues downbound.

    Pictures by N. Schultheiss
    Mike takes a final shot.
    Passing the Grosse Isle Lighthouse.
    Entering the Livingstone Channel.
    Passing Bob-Lo Island.
    Close up of the homes.
    We reach Lake Erie.
    Tug Patricia Hoey lets go the stern line.
    Capt. Bill Cline waves before turning back for the Detroit dock.
    We pass the Detroit River Light.
    View from the stern.
    Mate John Spezia relieves Capt. McCarty and we sail for Toledo.
    TV in the galley tells of the attacks in New York and Washington D.C.
    The tow continues across Western Lake Erie.
    Pilot and photographer Don Coles passes over head.

    Pictures by Don Coles All photographs are available for purchase.
    Towing the Ste. Claire.
    Bow view.
    Stern view.

    Pictures by N. Schultheiss
    As we approach the Toledo Harbor Light the tug Susan Hoey comes out to take the stern of the Ste. Claire.
    Close up of the tug.
    Passing the lighthouse.
    Crews were working on the light.
    We continue on through Maumee Bay for the Maumee River.
    Passing the remains of Turtle Island Lighthouse. It once marked the old navigation channel leading to the Maumee River.
    The dredge Buxton II and tug Muskegon dredging the ship channel in Maumee Bay.
    Capt. McCarty calls the CSX Railroad Bridge for an opening.
    Passing the Adam E. Cornelius. in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock.
    Threading through the bridge.
    We arrive off the ship yard.
    The dry dock is ready for the Ste. Claire.
    The floating gate from the dry dock.
    Ste. Claire is docked above the entrance to the dry dock.
    Line is thrown to the dock.
    Tow line comes off the Ste. Claire.
    Ready to enter.
    Starting in.
    Susan Hoey pushing on the stern while winches on shore pull the bow around.
    Tug Shannon helps the Ste. Claire in.
    Winches will be used to pull the Ste. Claire the rest of the way in.
    We head back across Lake Erie for Detroit.
    Upbound at the Detroit River Light.
    Passing the old Bob-Lo Island light.
    Another view.
    Upbound in the Amherstburg Channel.
    Bob-Lo Island dock once used by the Ste. Claire.
    Upbound passing Nicholson's and the lonley Columbia.
    Entering the Rouge River.
    Passing through the Short Cut Bridge.
    Former passenger ship now barge Alabama docked in the Rouge.
    Back at the Gaelic yard on the Rouge River.
    Tug Shannon at its dock.

    Bow view at Nicholson's Terminal taken earlier in the summer(Ste Claire on the right). Marv Hoffmeyer
    An early picture of the Ste Claire

    My thanks to Bill Hoey, the Gaelic Tugboat Company and tug crews for allowing me to join in the trip. Thanks also to Mike and Don for sending in pictures.

    Reported by: Neil Schultheiss




    Canadian Trader Expected to Depart

    09/12
    The Canadian Trader was expected to be towed from Toronto today for over seas scrapping. The straight deck bulk carrier last sailed in 1999 and has been in lay-up in Toronto since Dec. 23, 1999.

    The vessel will be towed to Montreal and may have to wait for legal action involving the arrested tug Headong Star No. 99 to clear. The Trader will then be towed to China for scrapping.

    It was suggested Tuesday that the tow would stop in Hamilton and take on grain from the Windoc.

    Pictures by N. Schultheiss
    Trader and Queen at dock in Toronto.
    Stern view.
    On the deck of the Trader.
    Trader's bow and the Toronto sky line on a rainy afternoon.
    History of the Trader.




    Security Concerns Shut Down Water Ways

    09/12
    Shipping traffic is slowed on the Great Lakes in the wake of Tuesdays terrorist attacks in New York and at the Pentagon. The U.S. section of the St. Lawrence Seaway including the Eisenhower and Snell Locks was closed Tuesday to prevent international ships from entering or leaving U.S. waters. The Canadian locks in the Seaway and Welland Canal remained open for traffic. On Wednesday it was announced that authorities would stop all foreign-registry ships prior to transit through the locks for inspection.

    About noon Tuesday, the Army Corps of Engineers closed the Soo Locks to salt water ships. The Corps announced Wednesday that it will allow the ships passage through the locks on an individual basis as approved by the Coast Guard.

    The closure did not affect U.S. and Canadian lake vessels. Coast Guard vessels with armed personnel patrolled the St. Marys River Tuesday. The street in Sault Sainte Marie that runs along the locks building was closed to vehicular traffic and guards were on alert.

    Shipping in lower Lake Huron and the St. Clair River was stopped Tuesday as no vessel was permitted to pass under the Blue Water Bridges that connects Port Huron and Sarnia. This restriction was lifted for U.S. and Canadian vessels that evening.

    Reported by: Richard Burton and Lisa Marciniak




    Port of Duluth-Superior Security

    09/12
    Although heightened security precautions were instituted by the Coast Guard Marine Safety Office, all cargo facilities in the Port of Duluth-Superior remained open Tuesday in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks.

    Four ships were in Duluth-Superior Harbor Tuesday. Two ocean ships were loading grain and one was anchored in Lake Superior awaiting elevator availability. A Canadian laker was also loading grain. Five U.S. lakers are due to arrive today.

    Reported by: Lisa Marciniak




    Towing Company Evacuated

    09/12
    Great Lakes Towing's corporate offices and dispatch center located in the Tower City building in Cleveland was evacuated Tuesday. The building is the tallest in Cleveland's skyline. It is unknown if this affected local tug operations as all radio dispatch operations around the lakes are handled from the office.

    Reported by: Rex Cassidy




    Desgagnes Departs

    09/12
    The Catherine Desgagnes had trouble departing the Menominee River Monday. As it was making a turn to head out of port it appeared to become got stuck across the river. She backed and maneuvered for over a half hour and was finally able to complete the turn. A strong wind was blowing upriver, and it is unknown if it rubbed against the side of the dredged channel or the wind was the main factor, it was blowing against the side of her high-riding hull. She was drawing well over 20 feet at her stern, while the bow was riding very high.

    Broadside in the Menominee River alongside the William H. Donner.
    Crew of the Desgagnes and workers on the Donner confer.
    Desgagnes moves forward, away from the Donner, but still broadside in the river.
    Close up of the Desgagnes stern very close to the bow of the Donner.
    The turn is almost complete.
    The Desgagnes departing drawing 23 feet at the stern and about 10 feet at the bow.
    Out past the range light and toward the North Pier Lighthouse and the Bay.

    Reported by: Dick Lund




    Wolverine Departs

    09/12
    As a tribute to those lost in the horrible tragedy of the attacks the Wolverine flew her American flag at half staff on Tuesday as she departed Manistee. She had unloaded at the Tondu coal dock all day after being delayed due to wind. She departed around 5:30 p.m.

    Reported by: Chris Franckowiak




    Clarkson Update

    09/12
    Tuesday saw the first vessel activity here in sometime. Petrolia Desgagnes was in at the Petro Canada dock. She came up the Seaway from Montreal last Thursday. Friday she was in at Hamilton to unload the cargo from Montreal. Since then the Petrolia Desgagnes has been shuttling between the Petro Canada refineries here in Clarkson and a few kilometers further West up the lake in Bronte.

    A work boat was busy at the St. Lawrence Cement pier replacing the rubber tires that act as bumpers for vessels at the dock.

    There has been very little traffic here since about August 20. St. Lawrence Cement is well stocked with a huge mountain of limestone behind the cement plant. Petro Canada also has the upper hand in base stocks for their refining processes.

    The James Norris, usually employed in the limestone trade between Colborne, Ontario and Clarkson entered mid season lay-up in Toronto at the end of August.

    Reported by: Bryan Ridley




    More Aerial Views

    09/12
    After photographing the Ste. Claire tow Don Coles to take pictures of ships in the area and sent in the photos below. All photographs are available for purchase. Don's company, Great Lakes Aerial Photos, is available for hire for any aerial photography need.

    Buffalo downbound on Lake Eire.
    Indiana Harbor upbound, Lake Erie.
    Island Skipper unloading in Detroit.
    Lady Hamilton on Lake Erie.
    Altair.
    Halifax unloading in the Rouge River.
    Algowest loading in Windsor.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 12

    The ROGER BLOUGH was laid up at Sturgeon Bay, WI from September 12, 1981 through 1986 because of economic conditions.

    CANADIAN PIONEER was christened at Port Weller on September 12, 1981 by Louise Powis, wife of the Chairman and President of Noranda Mines.

    CARTIERCLIFFE HALL was towed by the tug WILFRED M. COHEN to Collingwood, Ont. for repairs from a June 5th fire and arrived at Collingwood on September 12, 1979.

    Canadian Shipbuilding & Engineering Limited at Collingwood, Ontario closed the yard on September 12, 1986 after 103 years of shipbuilding. She was famous for her spectacular side launches. 214 ships were built at Collingwood.

    While unloading steel in South Chicago from the CANADA MARQUIS on September 12, 1988, a shoreside crane lifting a payloader into the hold, collapsed onto the ship. CANADA MARQUIS had a hole in her tank top and damage to her hatch coaming.

    On 12 September 1900, ALBACORE (2 mast wooden schooner, 137', 327T, built in 1872 at Port Dalhousie, Ont.) had a storm blow out her sails, driving her into the seawall at Fort Bank just east of Oswego, NY where she broke up. The tug J. NAVAGH tried unsuccessfully to save her. Her crew of 7 was rescued by the U.S. Lifesaving Service.

    After an extremely dry summer, forests were burning all over the Great lakes region in the Autumn of 1871. The smoke from these fires affected navigation. Newspaper reports stated that on 12 September 1871, 38 ships and four strings of barges anchored near Point Pelee on Lake Erie due to the restricted visibility caused by the smoke from the forest fires.

    On 12 September 1900, the schooner H. W. SAGE was raised by the McMorran Wrecking Company and was then towed to Port Huron for repairs. She had sunk near Algonac, Michigan in a collision with the steamer CHICAGO on 30 July 1900.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, James Neumiller, 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




    Former Bob-Lo Boat Set for Tow

    09/11
    The Bob-Lo steamer Ste. Claire was sold Monday by the Steamer Ste. Claire Foundation of Detroit to the Ste. Claire Foundation of Cleveland. The U.S. Coast Guard and the Underwriters Surveyor have approved the towing plan submitted by Gaelic Tugboat Company.

    The tow should be underway from Nicholson's north slip in Detroit by 7:00 a.m. and arrive about 2:00 p.m. at the Toledo Ship Repair Company dry dock. The tug Shannon will be the lead towing tug with the tug Patricia Hoey tailing off down the Detroit River.

    At Toledo Light the tug Susan Hoey will assist the tow up to the shipyard and into the dry dock.

    The Ste Claire was built in 1910 by the Toledo Ship Building Co. and launched May 7, 1910. The steamer was built to ferry passengers between Detroit and Bob-Lo Island. It has been in lay-up at Nicholson’s Terminal since September 2, 1991.

    Bow view at Nicholson’s Terminal (Ste Claire on the right). Marv Hoffmeyer
    Close up of the bow. Marv Hoffmeyer
    Stern view. Marv Hoffmeyer
    An early picture of the Ste Claire

    Reported by: William Hoey




    Windoc Update

    09/11
    Work has begun lightering the grain cargo from the Windoc into the Canadian Provider which is rafted to the disabled vessel. Monday three large diesel powered vacuumed pumps were on board the Windoc to transfer the grain through 4 to 6 inch pipes to the Provider. These units were located at the bow, midships and stern section of the Windoc. Numerous workers moved about on the decks of both ships.

    Shore side sources say this operation will possibly run around the clock until the job is done. A decision is to be made to see if the whole load will be off loaded in Hamilton and the Provider will be towed to Montreal for unloading. The Windoc may stay in Hamilton and have hull repairs done there.

    Reported by: Wally Wallace, Patricia Burgon and Peter Stevens




    Maumee Waits on Weather

    09/11
    Monday night the Maumee was waiting part way between Saunders Point and the Gladstone coal dock in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Strong northwest winds have dropped the water level in the area and the Maumee was waiting for the levels to rise before heading in to unload. This is the ship's first trip into Gladstone as the Maumee.

    Reported by: Eric and Sandy Chapman




    U.S.-Flag Carriage "Slip Slidin' Away"

    09/11
    Another numbing iron ore total set the tone for U.S.-Flag Great Lakes shipping in August. Lead by a 20.5 percent drop in iron ore cargos, U.S.-Flag lakers saw their August float slip by 10.6 percent compared to a year ago.

    As has been the case all season (and in fact, since 1998), high imports of foreign steel and low prices for domestically-made steel continued to plague American steelmakers. As noted, the August U.S.-Flag ore float represented a 20.5 percent decrease from what was in fact a lackluster August of 2000. For the season, the ore float in U.S. bottoms stands at 29 million net tons, a decrease of 17.2 percent.

    Realistically speaking, no rebound is in the offing. On August 15, the 854-foot-long ore carrier Roger Blough (USS Great Lakes Fleet, Inc.) was withdrawn from service. The ship has a per-trip capacity of 49,168 net tons of iron ore. On September 9, a fleetmate, the 1,000-foot-long ore carrier Edgar B. Speer, was withdrawn from service. The Speer's idling takes another 69,000 tons of per-trip hauling power off line.

    The slight increase in coal cargos reflects the stumbling demand for iron ore. Some vessels have increased their participation in the western coal trade to offset steelmakers' reductions in iron ore requirements.

    Reported by: Lake Carriers' Association




    Twin Ports Report

    09/11
    Duluth-Superior was busy early Monday as rainy weather gave way to clear skies. Philip R. Clarke was completing its load under the gravity chutes at the DMIR ore docks and Canadian Progress was backing up St. Louis Bay to Midwest Energy Terminal. At the elevators, Federal Fraser was ready to load at AGP in Duluth while Isa and Spar Jade occupied the loading berths at Cenex Harvest States in Superior. That elevator has been unusually busy the past week, frequently loading two vessels at once. Up the shore, Edwin H. Gott and Presque Isle were due at Two Harbors on Monday while Middletown and Armco were due at Silver Bay late in the evening.

    The tug Radium Yellowknife entered the Twin Ports through the Duluth ship canal for only the second time on Sept. 9. The tug, assisted by the tug Seneca, was towing three barges of lumber from Thunder Bay, Ontario. Radium Yellowknife usually enters port through Superior Entry.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Busy Day on the Saginaw River

    09/11
    The tanker Gemini arrived during the early morning Monday at the Ashland-Marathon dock in Bay City.

    The Joyce L. Van Enkevort/Great Lakes Trader also arrived overnight at the Bay Aggregates dock. The vessel departed the dock about 8:00 a.m. Monday and proceeded up to the Saginaw Rock Products dock.

    The Walter J. McCarthy Jr. departed the Consumers Energy dock at about 7:00 a.m. Monday and backed out into the bay to turn.

    The Great Lakes Trader had finished unloading at Saginaw at about 6:00 p.m. and was outbound an hour later after turning at the Sixth Street turning basin. Turning the 740-foot barge in the narrow Saginaw River is a long and laborious process, probably made no easier on Monday evening by a gusty wind. Once the bow of the barge is pushed into the turning basin, the tug detaches from the notch and moves around to push the stern end upriver against the current. Bow thrusters on the barge are used to assist with the process. Once the barge is positioned for the outbound trip, the tug is reattached in the notch.

    Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey




    Detroit Traffic

    09/11
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Monday.

    Algosoo downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Reserve Unloads at Toledo

    09/11
    The Reserve unloaded taconite pellets Sunday, arriving at the dock around 4:30 p.m. Several people turned out to meet their family members who worked on the boat and many came, just to watch. The Reserve left around 10:00 p.m. that evening.

    Reported by: Michael Layman




    Hamilton Update

    09/11
    At Pier 10 there was some type of work seen on the Gordon C. Leitch. A contractor's trailer has been hoisted on deck along with construction materials. The Leitch appears to be undergoing a major internal refit.

    A Russian saltie was at Pier 12, but no unloading activity seen that evening. It was possibly the Vladimir Vysotskiy On the north side of Pier 12, the ocean vessel Lykes Raider with a cargo of general cargo.

    On the east end of Hamilton Harbor, the Algoville was unloading iron ore pellets at Dofasco.

    Once again members of the Public Service Alliance of Canada are on the Burlington Ship Canal lift bridge causing delays with vessel traffic. At 7:00 p.m., no vessels were anchored in Hamilton Harbor, however, the Canadian Leader was anchored outside the Burlington Piers in Lake Ontario waiting to enter the harbor. At 7:10 p.m. the Leader hoisted anchor and turned to enter the canal and, at 7:25 p.m. it transited the Burlington Ship Canal. No whistle salutes were exchanged with the bridge operator. The vessel turned towards Dofasco to unload its cargo of iron ore.

    Reported by: Patricia Burgon




    Photo Wanted

    09/11
    The Lake Carriers' Association (LCA) is searching for a color photo of a 1,000-footer passing Detroit's RenCen to be on the cover of a brochure. The LCA will pay $50 plus cost of reproducing and mailing the photograph. The photographer will also be given credit in the brochure.
    If you have an image you would like to submit please e-mail for details.




    Duluth Gathering

    09/11
    A weekend of boat watching and touring is planned for September 22-23 in Duluth. The weekend starts on Saturday with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet. The fleet's tour boats will take us up close to all the boat watching action in port.

    Other planned events include a tour of the U.S. Coast Guard Base, the DMIR ore dock, Superior Midwest Energy Terminal, St. Lawrence Cement terminal and the opportunity to visit and tour the museum ships Meteor and William A Irvin.

    *Many of the tours have limited space available, be sure to register at the address below. Tours are available on a first come first serve basis. Click here for more information.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 11

    The GEORGE M. HUMPHREY (1) was patched and refloated on September 11, 1944. She had sunk in 80 feet of water after a collision with the steamer D.M. CLEMSON (2) off Old Point Light, on June 15, 1943. On May 6, 1944 the barges MAITLAND NO.1 and HILDA were employed as pontoons for the salvage operation positioned over the sunken hull. cables were attached to the HUMPHREY's hull and to the barges. The hull was raised through a series of lifts which allowed it to be brought into shallower water. Partial buoyancy was provided by the HUMPHREY's ballast tanks which were pumped out to about 25% of capacity. The HUMPHREY was patched and refloated on September 11, 1944. She was taken to the Manitowoc Ship Building Co. first for an estimate of repairs which totaled $469,400, and then was towed to Sturgeon Bay for reconditioning which was completed at a reported cost of $437,000. Captain John Roen's Roen Transportation Co. assumed ownership on September 18, 1944 and the next year the ship was renamed b) CAPTAIN JOHN ROEN. She re-entered service on May 1, 1945 chartered to the Pioneer Steamship Co. on a commission basis.

    On September 11, 1987 while in lay-up at Point Edward, the FORT YORK caught fire which gutted her bridge.

    Carrying cargoes off the Lakes, the CANADA MARQUIS departed Halifax bound for Philadelphia with a cargo of grain. The HON. PAUL MARTIN departed Halifax the same day on her way to Tampa with a load of gypsum.

    The HORACE JOHNSON sailed on her maiden voyage light from Lorain September 11, 1929 bound for Two Harbors, MN to load iron ore.

    On 11 September 1895, S. P. AMES (2 mast wooden schooner, 61’, 43GT) was driven ashore at Pointe Aux Barques, MI in a storm. She was quickly stripped before she went to pieces. She had been built in 1879 at Montrose, MI, in farm country, well inland, on the Flint River by Mr. Seth Ames. He wanted to use her to return to sea, but he died the day before her hull was launched.

    On 11 September 1876, the schooner HARVEST HOME sank on Lake Michigan while bound from Chicago for Cleveland with a load of scrap iron. She was about 26 miles off Grand Haven, Michigan. The crew were taken off by the schooner GRACIE M. FILER just as the boat was going down.

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




    Windoc Update

    09/10 9:00 a.m. Update
    On Monday morning the Canadian Provider was docked alongside the Windoc at Pier 8 in Hamilton. The Provider was towed from Toronto on Sunday and will be used to off load part of the Windoc's cargo.

    On Sunday a single mobile crane was alongside, but it is not equipped to unload vessel and appears to have been used to transfer equipment to the deck. None of the deck hatches had been moved.

    Reported by: Wally Wallace, M. Ouellette and Gerry O.




    Mackinaw Visits Toledo

    09/10
    Sunday the U.S. Coast Guard ice breaker Mackinaw made a trip in to Toledo.

    Cutter Mackinaw upbound in the Maumee River near C & O Lakefront.
    Approaching the I-280 bridge.
    Bow lookouts- rain begins.
    Port bridge wing officers observe progress.
    Stern view.
    Approaching the mooring site near Lafarge. Rain intensifies.
    Coats Guardsmen from Station Toledo awaiting heaving lines seek shelter in a downpour.
    Easing toward shore in wind & heavy rain.
    Placing fenders & mooring lines.
    Moored by lifeboat training station.
    A mighty throw of the bow heaving line to the waiting guardsman on shore.
    Officers on the bridge wing direct the mooring.
    The boarding ramp is run out.

    Reported by: Pat & Jan Pavlat




    Norris Docks in Toronto

    09/10
    The James Norris tied up at Toronto Pier 35 across from the Canadian Trader & Seaway Queen on Saturday. Crews have placed her canvas cover on the smokestack. It appears the ship will be in lay-up for an unknown length of time.

    Reported by: Gerry O.




    Saginaw River Update

    09/10
    The Walter J. McCarthy, Jr. was inbound the Saginaw River Saturday passing Lights 1 & 2 of the Entrance Channel around noon. She was headed to the Consumers Energy Dock to unload coal. The McCarthy had finished unloading by late evening, but was waiting for incoming river traffic before departing.

    Pictures by Todd Shorkey
    Walter J. McCarthy, Jr. unloading at Consumers Energy.
    Close up.
    Stern View.

    Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey




    Detroit Traffic

    09/10
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Sunday.

    Sam Laud downbound off Zug Island.
    Crew member waves from the pilot house.
    Stern view.
    Algoway unloading at the Lafarge Dock in Windsor.
    Close up.
    Jean Parisien upbound off the Lafarge Dock.
    Stern view.
    The mail boat J W Westcott II, Captain Sam Buchanan delivering mail to the Jean Parisien.
    Stern view.
    Dobrush (Ukraine) unloading clay at the Morterm Dock in Windsor.
    Buckeye upbound off the Rouge Short cut heading for Sterling Fuel.
    Stern view.
    hull of Northcliffe Hall and Island Skipper (Greece) at ADM Dock in Windsor. The Island Skipper was upbound on Monday and unloaded at Nicholson's. She is now loading grain at the ADM Dock.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Conneaut Report

    09/10
    The Frontenac and Algolake were both in Conneaut Sunday. At 4:40 p.m. the Algolake was loading as the Frontenac waited. Both hoppers were being used to load the Algolake.

    Frontenac at dock.
    Close up of her stern.
    Stern View.
    Algolake loading.
    Close up.
    Sifto Camp logo on bow.
    Hopper loading her.
    Boom close up.
    Stern View.

    Reported by: Jeff Thoreson




    Hamilton News

    09/10
    There was little activity in Hamilton Harbor on Saturday. At 5:00 p.m., the John B. Aird was loading gravel at Pier 24. It came from Toronto, where it deposited a load of salt. Nearby and riding high was the Dilmun Tern. The Federal Polaris was just beginning to unload steel products at Pier 12.

    Reported by: M. Ouellette




    Toronto Update

    09/10
    Last week was busy for traffic in the Toronto harbor. Early Sunday morning the tug Josee M. hooked up to Canadian Provider and towed her out of port for Hamilton. Later in the day the tug Lac Como went out the West Gap, likely bound to the assistance of a vessel at Clarkson or Lakeview.

    Three visiting naval ships HMCS Kingston, HMCS Goose Bay and HMCS Moncton came in within an hour of each other and berthed by the fire tug station.

    Tug Josee M moored behind the James Norris at the Atlas crane. Tug Atomic was over to Canadian Trader's bow, there is no firm date for the vessel's tow to Montreal.

    McKeil's charter barge Island Sauvage and tug Kingfish 1 returned to Toronto Saturday.

    Tug Curly B, which was in port for a few days, departed Friday after loading what appeared to be large shrink wrapped boilers. Also on Friday the John B. Aird came in and unloaded salt and departed again in the afternoon.

    The saltie Lake Ontario remains at the Redpath dock awaiting unloading.

    The auxiliary schooner Alison Lake was dry docked Saturday. She didn't suffer any damage in her grounding near Trois Rivieres. Her hull will be cleaned and inspected.

    The amphibious tour craft Happy Hippo, sideswiped the stationary Haida last weekend.

    The ferry Sam McBride saw its last day of service yesterday. She will be withdrawn from service today, and work will begin on replacing the planking on her upper deck.

    Reported by: Gerry O.




    Special Cruise in Bay City

    09/10
    The Bay City Lodge No. 5 of the International Shipmasters' Association will be holding a fundraising dinner cruise and silent auction on Friday Sept. 14, 2001. The event will be held aboard Bay City Boat Line's cruise vessel "Princess Wenonah". Live entertainment will be provided by the celtic/maritime group "Hoolie" who will be touring and playing across Europe during the month of August. Casual dinner will be provided for the cruise with a cash bar available. There will be a silent auction during the cruise with door prizes and an eclectic selection of items, including some marine related items. Boarding will be at 6:30 p.m. with a prompt sailing at 7:00 p.m. The boat will return to the dock at 10:00 p.m. Ticket cost is $25.00 per ticket and are available by calling 313 894-9233 or 989 894-0617. Cruise space is limited to 220 persons, so order soon to ensure your place aboard. Hope to see you there.

    Reported by: Wade Streeter and Stephen Hause




    Duluth Gathering

    09/10
    A weekend of boat watching and touring is planned for September 22-23 in Duluth. The weekend starts on Saturday with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet. The fleet's tour boats will take us up close to all the boat watching action in port.

    Other planned events include a tour of the U.S. Coast Guard Base, the DMIR ore dock, Superior Midwest Energy Terminal, St. Lawrence Cement terminal and the opportunity to visit and tour the museum ships Meteor and William A Irvin.

    *Many of the tours have limited space available, be sure to register at the address below. Tours are available on a first come first serve basis. Click here for more information.




    Windoc Feature

    09/10
    All the Windoc reports from this News Page have been condensed into one page. Click here to view




    Weekly Updates

    09/10
    The regular weekly updates are now available. Click here to view




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 10

    The METEOR (2) was towed from Manitowoc by the tug JOHN ROEN IV to Superior on September 10, 1972.

    The Harry Coulby (now Kinsman Enterprise) turns 71 years old on September 10. When she entered service on this date in 1927, the 631-foot bulk freighter was the third largest on the Great Lakes.

    While upbound in the Welland Canal on September 9, 1986 it was noted that the port anchor of the J.W. McGIFFON was missing, her chain was almost touching the water.

    On 10 September 1909, COLUMBUS (wooden propeller bulk freighter, 136', 439 GC, built in 1874 as the tug JOHN OWEN) burned to a total loss at her dock at Gargantua, Ontario in Lake Superior. She was cut loose and allowed to drift out into the bay where she sank. The top of her engine reportedly still shows above the water.

    September 10, 1979 - The S.S. SPARTAN was laid up.

    The barge N. MILLS was launched at P. Lester's yard in Marysville, Michigan on 10 September 1870. Her dimensions were 164' x 30' x 12'.

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




    Speer Arrives at Bay Ship

    09/09
    The Edgar B. Speer arrived Sturgeon Bay (Bay Ship at 4 PM CST) The Speer was due to arrive at 9:00 a.m. but was delayed due to weather until later in the afternoon.

    The Speer entered Sturgeon Bay from Green Bay, where the ship turned and backed from Sherwood point to Berth #15 at Bay Ship.

    The unofficial word is that the ship will remain at Bay Ship for a period of about 6 weeks. It is unknown at this time if the ship will be dry docked for its 5-year survey, or for what exact reason the ship is here this time of the year. It was reported last week that the ship would be entering temporary lay-up.

    Pictures by Vic DeLarwelle Backing down the Bay .
    Backing into Berth #15 .
    At Berth #15.

    Reported by: Vic DeLarwelle and Paul Graf




    Marquette News

    09/09
    Local media recently reported that iron ore is taking a big hit this year in shipments. Officials stated that through July 2000, 6.0 million tons of ore was shipped compared to 5.2 million this year for the same period, down approximately 17% from last year. These figures support the decrease in vessel visits to Marquette's upper harbor which through July showed a decrease of 25% in visits compared to same period last year.

    In other news, shipping in and out of Marquette this month is slightly ahead of last month's figures thanks to a number of vessels visiting this past week. The c. Columbus made its second visit of the year and to Marquette's lower harbor Friday and departed for Thunder Bay that evening.

    Reported by: Art Pickering




    Saginaw River Update

    09/09
    The Cuyahoga finished unloading at the Buena Vista Dock overnight and was downbound the Saginaw River passing through Downtown Bay City around 10:15 a.m. Saturday.

    The Tug Joyce L. Van Enkevort/Barge Great Lakes Trader finished unloading her split load for Bay Aggregates and Saginaw Rock overnight and was downbound from the 6th Street Turning Basin. She passed through Independence Bridge around 11:45 a.m.

    Pictures by Todd Shorkey
    Cuyahoga downbound at Wheeler's Landing.
    Close up.
    Great Lakes Trader downbound at Independence Bridge.
    Tug Joyce L. Van Enkevort.
    Stern View.

    Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey




    Cleveland Report

    09/09
    Saturday was a slow day in Cleveland. The saltie Daviken departed Cleveland at 1:30 p.m. The Maumee was loading salt on the old river that afternoon.

    Reported by: Rex Cassidy




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 09

    The WOLVERINE (4) was launched September 9, 1974 for the Union Commerce Bank (Ohio), Trustee (Oglebay Norton Co., mgr.), Cleveland, OH.

    DETROIT EDISON (2) was launched September 9, 1954 as a) DETROIT EDISON (2) for the American Steamship Co. (Boland & Cornelius, mgr.) Buffalo, NY.

    The Steamer Pere Marquette #18 sank on September 9, 1910 with a loss of 29 lives. No cause for the sinking has ever been determined. The Pere Marquette #17 picked up 33 survivors, losing 2 of her own crew during the rescue.

    The first of two fires suffered by the Grand Trunk carferry GRAND RAPIDS occurred on September 9, 1980. The cause of the fire was not determined.

    On 9 September 1929, ANDASTE (steel propeller self-unloading sandsucker, 247’, built in 1892 at Cleveland) was probably overloaded with gravel when she “went missing” west of Holland, MI. The entire crew of 25 was lost. When built, she was the sister of the “semi-whaleback” CHOCTAW, but was shortened 20 feet in 1920-21 to allow her to use the Welland Canal.

    On 9 September 1871, Captain Hicks of the schooner A. H. MOSS fired the Mate, a popular fellow, in a fit of anger the same time that a tug arrived to tow the schooner out of Cleveland harbor. The crew was upset to say the least, and when the tow line was cast off and Capt. Hicks ordered the sails hoisted, the crew refused to do any work. The skipper finally raised the signal flags and had the tug towed his vessel back into the harbor. When the MOSS dropped anchor, he fired the entire crew then went ashore to hire another crew.

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

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




    Windoc Arrives

    09/08
    The Windoc arrived in Hamilton on Friday morning after a long tow through the Welland Canal. About 7:00 a.m. the tow docked at Pier 8 at the foot of James Street. It was taken to Hamilton by the two McKeil tugs. In the early morning light, the trio of vessels was an almost eerie sight moving through the haze that hung over the water. The Windoc was turned bow to the east and positioned along the north face of the pier.

    That evening the Windoc was securely moored. McKeil Marine had a dockside crane along side of the vessel, but no unloading activity had taken place.

    Pier 8 and is easily accessible for photos, the Windoc is within sight of the Algogulf and McKeil's yard.

    After partial unloading in Hamilton is complete the Windoc will be towed to Montreal where the remaining cargo will be unloaded. After that, the ship faces an uncertain future.

    Reported by: Wally Wallace and Patricia Burgon




    New Tankers for Algoma

    09/08
    Algoma Central Corp has been reported to be seeking proposals for at least two 15,000 to 20,000 DWT tankers that will meet Canadian government requirements for double hulls. Reid Scheidt, director of sales and marketing with Algoma Tankers, said the company hopes to place an order for the ships within the next 6 to 12 months. The company has not settled on a final design but is looking for a tanker in the 460-foot range, suited to trade on the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway.

    The company would like to place the order with a Canadian builder but is waiting for more details from the new federal shipbuilding strategy promised by industry minister Brian Tobin in June before it makes a final decision.

    Reported by: Lawrence Keens




    Vlieborg visits Marinette

    09/08
    The Vlieborg arrived in Marinette to unload its cargo of wood pulp at Marinette Fuel and Dock for K&K Warehousing in Menominee Friday. It is unloaded by the crane ship William H Donner and placed on flatbed truck and taken across the Menekaunee Bridge to K&K. This is believed to be the first visit by a Wagenborg vessel to Marinette or Menominee.

    Cargo is lifted from the Vlieborg. Scott Best
    The Unloading apparatus on the Donner's cranes. Dick Lund
    Loaded on to waiting trucks. Scott Best
    Bow view along side the Donner. Scott Best
    Stern view. Scott Best
    Deckhouse of the Vlieborg. Dick Lund
    Full load coming off. Dick Lund
    Manhandling the load onto waiting trucks. Dick Lund
    Truck heading across the Menekaunee Bridge for K&K Warehouse in Menominee, MI.
    K&K Warehouse in Menominee (about one mile from Marinette Fuel & Dock where the Vlieborg is unloading.

    Reported by: Scott Best and Dick Lund




    Alpena Update

    09/08
    The Fred White was in at the Lafarge Coal Dock to unload Friday afternoon later on the Jacklyn M Barge Integrity was in to load cement. The Alpena is at anchor awaiting the departure of both vessels.

    The Paul H Townsend will be in port early Saturday morning for temporary lay-up. The J.A.W Iglehart is also due in Saturday morning to load.

    The H. Lee. White and Pathfinder where both loading at Stoneport on Friday.

    Reported by: Ben and Chanda Bruski




    Saginaw River Update

    09/08
    American Mariner was outbound from the Sixth Street turning basin in Saginaw at about 7:00 a.m. Friday. While the Mariner was transiting the river outbound, her ASC fleet mate American Republic was entering the river. The Republic waited at Essexville for the Mariner to clear, then proceeded up to the Burroughs dock near the I-75 bridge.

    The American Republic was preparing to depart the dock at 4:35 p.m. and back down the river to the Airport turning basin.

    The Cuyahoga was inbound Friday headed to the Buena Vista Dock just below the I-75 Bridge. The Cuyahoga reported 70-knot winds out on the bay during her journey in. There were heavy squalls in the area that night.

    Also inbound Friday Night was the Joyce L. Van Enkevort/Great Lakes Trader. She was inbound at Lights 1 & 2 around 9:30 p.m. Friday. She was headed all the way up to the Saginaw Rock Dock.

    Pictures by Todd Shorkey
    Cuyahoga upbound past Consumers Energy.
    Another View.
    American Mariner downbound at Wheeler's Landing.
    American Mariner at Smith Park in Essexville.
    American Republic upbound tying up at Essroc in Essexville.
    American Republic close up.
    Stern View.
    American Mariner downbound passing American Republic at Essroc.
    American Republic thrusting away from Essroc back underway upbound.
    Republic/Mariner another view.
    A rain bow forms.

    Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey




    Detroit Traffic

    09/08
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Friday.

    Armco downbound off Mama Juda.
    Stern view.
    Joseph H Thompson & Joseph H Thompson Jr. downbound off Grassy Island.
    Close up of the tug in the notch.
    Stern view of tug.
    Thompson passes.
    Diamond Queen downbound off Nicholson's.
    Olga (Malta) downbound off Nicholson's.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 08

    The GEMINI sailed on her maiden voyage in August 1978 from the shipyard to load fuel oil at Baytown, TX, for delivery at Detroit, MI. Passing upbound the next month on September 8th through the Welland Canal, GEMINI became the largest U.S. flagged tanker on the Great Lakes with a capacity of 76,000 barrels.

    The W.E. FITZGERALD was launched September 8, 1906 for the Chicago Navigation Co., Chicago, IL (D. Sullivan, mgr.).

    The W.W. HOLLOWAY was launched September 8, 1906 as the straight decker a) HENRY A. HAWGOOD for Minerva Steamship Co. (W.A. & H.A. Hawgood, mgr.), Cleveland.

    The RADIANT departed the shipyard September 8, 1913 light on her maiden voyage bound for Montreal, Que.

    September 8, 1970 - The MILWAUKEE CLIPPER made her last run from Milwaukee.

    On September 8, 1985 the downbound the Panamanian NORCHEM collided with the upbound CANADIAN PROSPECTOR near Kanawake. PROSPECTOR had little damage but NORCHEM was ripped open near her port anchor.

    On 8 September 1885, ADVANCE (wooden schooner, 119’, 180GT, built in 1853 at Milwaukee) was carrying wood when she became waterlogged and capsized in a gale and blinding rain near Port Washington, WI in Lake Michigan. All but one of her crew of 7 drowned when her yawl capsized in the surf.

    On 8 September 1871, the schooner MORNING LIGHT was sailing from Kelley's Island on Lake Erie with a cargo of stone for Marquette, Michigan in heavy weather. Trying to enter the Detroit River, the crew miscalculated their position and ran the ship aground on Point Moullier, just below Gibraltar. The crew scuttled the vessel in the shallow water to save her from harm. The following day, the tug GEORGE N. BRADY was sent out with steam pumps and hawsers and the MORNING LIGHT was raised and towed to Detroit for repairs.

    Data from: Max Hanley, Joe Barr, Al Miller, David Swayze, Father Dowling Collection, James Neumiller, 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




    Windoc Update

    09/07
    The tow of the Windoc from the Welland Canal continued Thursday as the tugs carefully maneuvered the ship through the locks.

    The tugs Josee M., Sea Hound, Vac and Carole C. I coordinated the movement that took the ship from an area near Lock 7 to Lake Ontario. A fully loaded vessel had never been towed for this long of a distance through the canal.

    The tow appeared to reach Lake Ontario Tuesday evening and was expected to head for Hamilton where part of the Windoc's cargo will be unloaded. Restrictions on the vessel's draft is the reason part of the cargo will be offloaded. Once the partial unloading in Hamilton is complete the Windoc will be towed to Montreal where the remaining cargo will be unloaded. After that, the ship faces an uncertain future.

    Please send updates and pictures to moderator@boatnerd.net

    Pictures by Alex Howard
    Tow underway Thursday morning.
    Lead tug passes.
    Close up of the damaged cabins.
    Another view.
    tugs along side.
    Tug Seahound working the tow.
    Carole C. I on the stern.
    Stern view as the tow heads down the canal.
    Lady Hamilton waits for the tow to pass.
    Elikon docked.
    Isadora downbound.
    Canadian Transport upbound at Lock 2.

    Reported by: Wally Wallace and Bill Bird




    Speer to Lay-up

    09/07
    Edgar B. Speer is scheduled to arrive in Sturgeon Bay on Sept. 8. Word is that the vessel will lay-up and may be idle for as long as six weeks. While at the shipyard, the Speer may undergo its 5-year inspection.

    Earlier this summer, USS Great Lakes Fleet laid up the Roger Blough at Fraser Shipyards in Superior. Both the Speer and the Blough were regular callers at the DMIR ore docks in Two Harbors, where they loaded Minntac pellets bound for U.S. Steel mills.

    Because it's shorter than the fleet's 1,0000-footers, the Blough has always been prone to early lay-up when the steel industry is troubled. The Blough is rumored to be spending the rest of the season in lay-up. The Speer is at a disadvantage, of course, because it lacks an unloading boom like the Edwin H. Gott and Presque Isle.

    Both the Gott and Presque Isle continue to serve the DMIR in Two Harbors. Both vessels are scheduled to arrive there Sept. 10.

    In other fleet news, Philip R. Clarke is scheduled to make an unusual call Sept. 9 when it unloads at the Reiss Inland dock in Duluth. John G. Munson loaded at Port Inland and is due in Buffalo on Sept. 9.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Unloading Hopper Damaged

    09/07
    On Tuesday night the stacker for a shore side unloading hopper was damaged in Gary, Indiana. The dock is part of U.S. Steel's Gary Works steel plant. Great Lakes freighters with short shuttle unloading booms (Edgar B. Speer and Roger Blough) use the hopper to unload cargoes at the dock. When the incident happened the Speer was stuck in port with about 2/3 of a load of cargo.

    On of the fleet's AAA class ships was en route Wednesday to help unload the Speer. The smaller ship with a long unloading boom will dock along side the Speer. The Speer will use its short shuttle boom to off load the cargo onto the AAA class ship that will then use its longer boom to place the cargo on the dock.

    It is unknown if the damaged stacker has anything to do with the lay-up of the Speer. Early repair estimates called for the hopper to be back in service in 7-10 days.

    Reported by: David Zarth




    More Delays in Hamilton

    09/07
    Another protest by the Public Service Alliance of Canada was causing delays with both commercial and private vessels using the Burlington Ship Canal Thursday. Three vessels, the Montrealais, the Rt. Hon. Paul J. Martin and Daviken were anchored in Hamilton Harbor for a good portion of the day.

    The protests are by the bridge operators who are represented by the Public Service Alliance of Canada. This is the second time operators have left the bridge in the down position delaying shipping traffic in and out of Hamilton.

    The Montrealais finished unloading iron ore at Dofasco mid afternoon and went to anchor in the harbor. It wasn't until 6:10 p.m. that the bridge was raised and the Montrealais was able to transit through the Burlington Ship Canal. There was no exchange of whistle salutes between vessel and bridge operator.

    The saltie Daviken had transited the canal an hour before as she was seen far out into the lake heading to the Welland Canal.

    After unloading iron ore and then reloading with mill scale at Stelco, the Rt. Hon. Paul J. Martin anchored in the harbor sometime Thursday morning. As of 6:40 p.m. it was still at anchor.

    Two other commercial vessels were in the harbor. The Algocen was unloading iron ore at Dofasco and the Vega Desgagnes unloading jet fuel at Pier 11.

    Reported by: Patricia Burgon




    Crew Change on the Saginaw

    09/07
    The Saginaw was in Windsor Thursday at Lafarge unloading a cargo of sand. While the ship was unloading a crew change took place.

    Darryl, a deck hand on the Saginaw, transports crew members in the work boat. The depth at the dock forces the ship to tie up about 50-feet off shore.
    Darryl, Chuck, Paul and Kirk, crew of Saginaw.
    First load, Darryl and Doug Hubert.

    Reported by: T. Parker




    Western Lake Erie

    09/07
    Western Lake Erie saw a flurry of activity Thursday. Among vessels working the western end of the lake were the Richard Reiss and Mesabi Miner. The Reiss was loading stone in Marblehead and the Miner was unloading taconite in Lorain.

    Pictures by TZ.
    Richard Reiss loading.
    Miner unloading.
    Close up.

    Reported by: Rex Cassidy




    Rare Trip for the Buffalo

    09/07
    The Buffalo made a rare trip up the Buffalo Ship Canal to the Founder's Sand Landing on Thursday morning. She skillfully used her bow and stern thrusters to maneuver past the Kinsman Independent at General Mills without tug assistance. Most of the Buffalo's cargo was dropped on the North end of the property before she shifted up the canal to unload the rest of it above the dryer building. With a stern mounted boom she must bring her bow up close to the muck near the end of the City Ship Canal.

    Buffalo unloading.
    Close up.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Brian Wroblewski




    Tanker bringing European gasoline to Whiting refinery

    09/07
    To help alleviate a shortage in the Chicago area, BP is shipping gasoline by tanker from Nova Scotia to the company's refinery in Whiting, Indiana, according to the Sept. 6 Chicago Tribune.

    A recent shut down a Citgo refinery that supplied about 2 percent of the Chicago area's gasoline. As a result, retail prices in the area have risen sharply. The problem will get worse as BP shuts down a crude unit at its Whiting refinery for maintenance.

    The gasoline shipment originated in Europe and is being transshipped at Nova Scotia. Imports from Europe rarely are sent to the Midwest, the newspaper report.

    "The [European] shipment will help backstop the crude unit, but it will also bring in extra supply," Tom Mueller, a BP spokesman, told the Tribune. BP has been stockpiling inventory to offset the maintenance, he said. The gasoline, which is being shipped in the form of blend stock, was to leave Nova Scotia on Sept. 6 aboard a 17,000-ton ship that is scheduled to dock near the Whiting refinery. The roundabout and expensive trip will take at least two weeks. Transportation expenses will add between 5 and 10 cents a gallon to the cost, Mueller said. BP's shipment is enough for roughly 600,000 15-gallon fill-ups.

    Reported by: A. Magos




    Marquette Report

    09/07
    The month of August had mixed results for the Lake Superior port of Marquette. Vessel visits to the lower harbor exceed August 2000 figures thanks in part to a late month surge of vessels into the lower harbor. The upper harbor again fell short of August 2000 figures and combined figures for both harbors show a down turn.

    Starting with the combined figure, the total monthly combined visits to both harbors saw 29 vessel, down by 33% for the same month last year. Furthermore, visits for the entire shipping year (through Aug) combined is down by 35% compared to the same period last year.

    As for the lower harbor, a total of 7 vessels visited the lower harbor which is an increase of 40% compared to monthly figures for August 2000. For the year, visits to the lower harbor are down by 34%. Leading the way for August was the John Boland that made 4 visits during the month. Other visits included American Mariner, H. Lee White, and the U.S.C.G. Buckthorn, all of which made one visit each to the lower harbor in August.

    Indications for September looks like another good month on tap with the c. Columbus making 3 stops in Marquette during the month. With 2 vessel visits thus far, one being the Columbus, Sept figures should surpass last September's 2000 figures.

    The upper harbor showed a large decline. For the fourth month in a row, shipping visits in and out of the upper harbor are significantly lower than figures for last year. During the month of August, 29 vessels visited the upper harbor compared to 43 for August 2000, a decrease of 33%. For the entire shipping season, visits are down by 26% with 174 total visits compared to the same period in 2000 that saw 268 visits. The Lee Tregurtha and the Kaye Barker lead visits for the month of August with 5 visits each. The Charles Beeghly had 4 visits followed by John Boland and Algosteel which had 3 visits each, the Capt Henry Jackman, Mesabi Miner, and Herbert Jackson each had two visits while each of the following had one visit each: Algomarine, Great Lakes Trader, and the Paul Tregurtha who made its first visit of the season to Marquette this month.

    So far this shipping season, the Lee Tregurtha has made the most visits to Marquette with 24 followed by the Algomarine with 21, Charles Beeghly and Kaye Barker each with 17 visits and the Algosteel with 16. Continuing, Algoma is the big winner among shipping company have 28% (48 visits) of the visit thus far season followed by; Lakes Shipping 24% (41 visits), Interlake Steamship with 23% (39 visits), American Steamship with 14% (24 visits), Oglebay Norton with 4% (7 visits), Upper Lakes Group and Upper Lakes Barge each has 3% with 6 visits each, Canadian Steamship with 1% (2 visits). However, American vessel visits (117) to the upper harbor far exceed Canadian vessel visits (56).

    Reported by: Art Pickering




    Duluth Gathering

    09/07
    A weekend of boat watching and touring is planned for September 22-23 in Duluth. The weekend starts on Saturday with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet. The fleet's tour boats will take us up close to all the boat watching action in port.

    Other planned events include a tour of the U.S. Coast Guard Base, the DMIR ore dock and the opportunity to visit and tour the museum ships Meteor and William A Irvin.

    Click here for more information.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 07

    On September 7, 1978 the ROGER M. KYES (b. ADAM E. CORNELIUS) lost all power in Lake St. Clair requiring tug assistance from the GLT tugs MARYLAND and MAINE which escorted her to the Great Lakes Steel dock.

    The CADILLAC (4) was laid up on September 7, 1981 for the last time at Toledo, OH. She was later transferred to a West coast marine operation in preparation for conversion for a proposed container ship for service between Chicago, Detroit and Quebec City. However these plans never materialized.

    On September 7, 1921, the D.G. KERR pulled up to the ore dock at Two Harbors, MN to load exactly 12,507 gross tons of iron ore in the record breaking time of sixteen and a half minutes. This was accomplished through the cooperation of the dock superintendent, the dock employees concerned, the ship's captain and crew and the Pittsburgh Steamship Co. as a means of "showing up" the competition. Her time of arrival and departure to and from the dock took only nineteen minutes. For comparison, a good average loading time at that time was about three hours and forty-five minutes.

    On September 7, 1975 on the St. Marys River loaded with iron ore pellets, the WILLIAM G. MATHER, forced out of the channel by a salt water vessel, struck bottom. Upon proceeding further onto Lake Huron it was soon discovered that her pumps were unable to cope with incoming water caused by the damage. She was beached at Frying Pan Island in 19 feet of water when it became evident they couldn't make dock.

    On 7 September 1883, LAURA BELL (wooden schooner, 138’, 269GT, built in 1870 at Toledo, OH) was carrying coal from Cleveland to Marquette, MI when she stranded off Shot Point, east of Marquette in Lake Superior. Her crew spent 3 days in her rigging and all but one were rescued by a tug from Marquette.

    September 7, 1916 - The PERE MARQUETTE 3 ran aground 10 miles north of Milwaukee.

    September 7, 1996 - The American Society of Mechanical Engineers designated the propulsion system of the BADGER a mechanical engineering landmark.

    The launch of the 188' wooden schooner ELIZABETH A. NICHOLSON was set for 4:00 PM on 7 September 1872 at E. Fitzgerald's shipyard in Port Huron, Michigan. Just before 4:00 PM, a telegram was received at the shipyard from Capt. Nicholson, the owner of the new vessel, which read, "Wait a while. We are coming." The launch was delayed until another dispatch was received which said to go ahead anyway. The boat Capt. Nicholson was on had broken down. The launch went well. The vessel was painted deep green with her name in gilt. All present cheered the sight, but there was no party afterwards. All of the food and beverages for the celebration were with Capt. Nicholson on the disabled vessel.

    Data from: Max Hanley, Joe Barr, Tin Stackers - The History of the Pittsburgh Steamship Company, 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




    Windoc Under Tow

    09/06
    The highly coordinated tow of the Windoc got under way about 10:00 p.m. Wednesday night. By 5:30 p.m. that afternoon the tugs were connecting to the Windoc and preparing for the long night ahead.

    The job will be a very difficult as the ship is fully loaded and will require a lot of time to maneuver into and out of the locks. The tug Josee M. will take the bow with the Carrol C I on the stern, as the tow comes to the lock it will tie up to the approach wall and the stern tug will disconnect. At this time the two smaller tugs Vac and Sea Hound will take position on each side of the stern with the tug Josee M still on the bow, and the Carrol CI will lock thru ahead of the tow. The three tugs will enter the lock under tow and the Josee M will turn on an angle in the lock and the two Nando Marine tugs will stop the Windoc as the bow comes to the front of the lock.

    The tow is then lowered in a normal fashion and the whole procedure is repeated until they are through the Flight Locks. After the Flight Locks the Carrol C I will again connect and move through the remaining locks using the same procedure.

    The tow is expected to take approximately 18 hours to reach Lake Ontario. It will then head to Hamilton where part of the Windoc's cargo will be offloaded onto a barge. Once unloading in Hamilton is complete the Windoc will be towed with a partial load to Montreal. After the remaining cargo is unloaded the ship may be scrapped but not official decision has been made.

    Please send updates and pictures to moderator@boatnerd.net

    Pictures by Brian Wroblewski
    Tugs waiting for the job to begin.
    Additonal tugs.
    Windoc waits.

    Reported by: Wally Wallace




    Lorain News

    09/06
    The tug James Palladino and barge Kellstone I made a trip into Lorain Wednesday about 1:30 p.m. The small work boat Hobo was working on the bow as it entered port.

    Pictures by TZ
    Tug and barge inbound.
    Passing the ore docks.
    Close up of the tug.
    Work boat Hobo on the bow.
    Lorain Lighthouse.

    Reported by: Rex Cassidy




    Toledo Update

    09/06
    On Wednesday the Middletown arrived at the Torco Dock around 11:30 a.m. and unloaded ore. The USCGC Neah Bay was in drydock at the Shipyard. The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock. The dredge Buxton II and related equipment with their tug Muskegon were dredging the ship channel in Maumee Bay near the CSX Coal Docks. The small hopper dredge Atchafalaya was dredging the ship channel near the Toledo Harbor Light house area. The dredge Ellicott and related equipment with there tug John Henry was tied up in the canal for the Bayshore Edison Power Plant north of the Torco Dock.

    The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the CSL Niagara on Thursday morning. The Philip R. Clarke on Friday morning, followed by the Algosteel and Algobay on Saturday. The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Docks will be the Buckeye on Saturday morning followed by the Reserve on Sunday morning.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman




    Oshawa News

    09/06
    The Lake Ontario port of Oshawa was busy with visitors on Wednesday as the Canadian Naval vessel HMCS Kingston was in port and open for tours. Longs lines were seen at the dock as people waited to tour the ship. It departed about 7:00 p.m. for its next port of call.

    The heavy lift salty Tramper remained in port loading cargo until Wednesday evening. The vessel departed about 6:40 p.m. bound for the Dominican Republic.

    HMCS Kingston open for tours.
    End of the line.
    Welcome sign.
    Royal Canadian Navy information van.
    Officer informs the public tours are ending.
    Away from the dock.
    Departing.

    Tramper loading cargo.
    Stern view.
    Tramper lines up for the piers.
    Passing.
    Crew members take one last look at the port.
    Heading for the lake.

    Reported by: Jim Gallacher




    Duluth Gathering

    09/06
    A weekend of boat watching and touring is planned for September 22-23 in Duluth. The weekend starts on Saturday with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet. The fleet's tour boats will take us up close to all the boat watching action in port.

    Other planned events include a tour of the U.S. Coast Guard Base, the DMIR ore dock and the opportunity to visit and tour the museum ships Meteor and William A Irvin.

    Click here for more information.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 06

    The S.S. Badger was launched on September 6, 1952, at Sturgeon Bay, WI. In a christening ceremony that included the S.S. Spartan (launched earlier that year). The S.S. Badger was named in honor of the University of Wisconsin. The Badger was built by Christy Corporation, and is powered by two Skinner 4 cylinder Steeple Compound Unaflow Marine Steam engines, developing over 7,000 horsepower. She was the last of the large, coal-fired steamers to be built in the United States, and the only ship of her type still operating on the Great Lakes. The S.S. Badger offers seasonal passenger service from Ludington, MI to Manitowoc, WI from mid May to early October.

    The BELLE RIVER began her maiden voyage when she loaded 56,073 long tons of western coal at Superior, WI on August 31, 1977 and arrived at Edison CO's Belle River power plant at Recors Point on September 6, 1977. today sails as: b) WALTER J. McCARTHY JR.

    On Sunday morning September 6, 1990 at approximately 0800, the BUFFALO, traveling upstream on the Saginaw River, passed the JUPITER which was unloading gasoline at the Total Petroleum dock near Bay City, MI. The ship's passing caused a suction which pulled the JUPITER away from the dock. The aft pilings subsequently broke away and the parting fuel lines caused a spark which resulted in a fire which totally destroyed the tanker. One of the JUPITER's crew was lost overboard. Subsequent investigation by the NTSB, US Coast Guard and the findings of a federal judge all exonerated the master and BUFFALO in the tragedy.

    On September 6, 1992 the H. LEE WHITE was in tow of the "G" tugs COLORADO and LOUISIANA entering the Trenton Channel when she struck a section of the toll bridge at Grosse Ile, MI knocking down a 150 foot span immediately east of the main river channel. The WHITE was not damaged but a new section of the bridge had to be installed at a cost of $1.7 million. The bridge was back in service in late January, 1993. The US Coast Guard investigated this casualty and their report states that it was the failure of the bridge tender to operate and open the bridge which caused this casualty. The Coast Guard found that the master of the WHITE was operating his vessel in a prudent and lawful manner including the use of whistle signals.

    The John J. Boland (A. CHARLES E. WILSON) completed her sea trials in 1973.

    The GEORGIAN BAY collided with the steamer CHARLES HUBBARD in the fog-covered lower St. Marys River September 6, 1955.

    On September 6, 1989 the Twin Screw Rail Car Ferry GRAND RAPIDS left Muskegon in tow of the tugs ANGLIAN LADY and PRINCESS NO.1 and arrived at Port Maitland, Ont. on September llth. Scrapping was completed in the fall of 1994.

    On 6 September 1887, BLUE BELL (2-mast wooden scow-schooner, 84’, 122GT, built in 1867 at Milwaukee) was carrying lumber from Wilt’s Bay, MI to Milwaukee when she missed the harbor entrance at Sturgeon Bay, WI in a storm. She was driven ashore where she broke up. Her crew made it to the beach with the aid of the local U.S. Life Saving crew. The total loss was valued at $5,000.

    On 6 September 1871, the wooden schooner ROSA STEARNS, loaded with coal, was battling a storm for hours off Cleveland, Ohio. The ship was driven on the stone breakwater about 1:00 AM and was pounded to pieces. The crew jumped onto the breakwater and crawled to safety as the waves crashed over them.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Jody L. Aho, Max S. 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




    Windoc Tow to Depart Today

    09/05
    The Windoc will be towed from the Welland Canal today about noon. Four tugs owned by McKeil Marine will take the damaged vessel to Hamilton where part of its cargo will be offloaded onto a barge.

    The ship's former owners declared the vessel a loss and turned the ship over to the insurers. The insurers have contracted with McKeil to handle the salvage operation.

    The tugs Josee M., Sea Hound, Vac and Carole C. will take the ship in tow for what is expected to be a long transit of the canal. A fully loaded vessel has never been towed for this long of a distance through the canal and it could take about 18 hours to reach Lake Ontario. Once unloading in Hamilton is complete the Windoc will be towed with a partial load to Montreal. After the remaining cargo is unloaded the ship may be scrapped but not official decision has been made.

    Please send updates and pictures to moderator@boatnerd.net

    Reported by Jimmy Sprunt




    Canadian Trader Heading For Scrap

    09/05
    The Canadian Trader is expected to be towed from Toronto some time this month for over seas scrapping. The straight deck bulk carrier last sailed in 1999 and has been in lay-up in Toronto since Dec. 23, 1999.

    The arrest of the South Korean tug Headong Star No. 99 (see story below for more details) has delayed the tow of the Trader. It could be moved as soon as next week but no schedule is set. The vessel may be towed to Montreal and wait for legal action involving the arrested tug to clear. The Trader will then be towed to China for scrapping.

    Also in long term lay-up in Toronto is the Seaway Queen. Her sailing career is also finished but is not expected to be scrapped. Many uses have been suggested for the vessel ranging from a museum ship, city offices and floating aquarium. The Queen is a long time favorite of boat watchers.

    Pictures by N. Schultheiss
    Trader and Queen at dock in Toronto.
    Stern view.
    On the deck of the Trader.
    Trader's bow and the Toronto sky line on a rainy afternoon.
    History of the Trader.

    Reported by: Jimmy Sprunt




    New Barge in for Repairs

    09/05
    The McAsphalt Industries new barge Norman McLeod is at Port Weller Dry Docks for repairs to damage suffered in heavy weather on the tow from China. The length of her stay is unknown but the damage is reported to be extensive.

    The South Korean tug Headong Star No. 99 towed the McLeod from China with another barge. A line was reported to have parted in heavy weather causing the barges to batter one another in the storm. Both barges were damaged and the second barge was reported to be a total loss. Legal action by the owners of the second barge has the tug under arrest in Montreal.

    In addition to repairs the barge will undergo final fit out. The planned two-phase construction offered the owners both economic advantages with steel construction and coatings in China and Canadian expertise in equipment and fit out quality.

    Some deck gear and machinery that will be used on the barge is salvaged from the Canadian Trader.

    Drawing of tug and barge from Upper Lakes Group.
    Tug Everlast in Hamilton this past spring
    Another view

    Reported by: Jimmy Sprunt and Ron Beaupre




    LeVent at Port Weller

    09/05
    Arriving at Port Weller Dry Docks on Monday was the McKeil barge Le Vent. The barge will spend the next few months undergoing conversion to carry jet fuel. The Le Vent is a former floating fish factory that was in used in Europe. Dry dock crews will remove the super structure and convert the barge.

    The barge was moved from Hamilton by the tugs Josee M. and Bonnie B. III.

    Reported by: Jimmy Sprunt




    Saginaw in Owen Sound

    09/05
    The Saginaw arrived in Owen Sound Tuesday morning to unload salt at the Great Lakes Elevator dock. She left port mid-afternoon.




    Munson Unloads

    09/05
    Tuesday the John G. Munson was unloading a cargo of coal in Green Bay, WI.
    Unloading in Green Bay.
    Wide view with the Tower Drive Bridge (I-43) in the distance.
    View from across the Bay of Green Bay in Menominee, MI as the Munson departed later that afternoon (about 8-9 miles out).

    Reported by: Dick Lund




    Twin Ports Report

    09/05
    The increasing grain traffic in the Twin Ports resulted in a pair of unusual occurrences on the morning of Sept. 4. The Quebecois was loading at the AGP elevator, which rarely handles Canadian vessels; and the saltie Federal Hudson was being towed up the St. Louis River to the Hallett 6 dock, apparently to load bentonite.

    Elsewhere in port, Cenex Harvest States was still full, with Olga loading on one side and Flintermaas on the other. Adimon was anchored on the lake.

    In the ore trade, St. Clair is becoming a regular at the DMIR dock in Two Harbors. It's due there again Sept. 9. Other callers include Edwin H. Gott and Presque Isle, Sept. 4; Columbia Star, Sept. 6;and Edgar B. Speer, Sept. 7.

    At the DMIR in Duluth, the lineup includes the Canadian regulars Halifax, Sept. 8, AND CSL Tadoussac, Sept. 9, and Philip R. Clarke, Sept. 10.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Thunder Bay News

    09/05
    The port of Thunder Bay is starting to see a steady increase in boat traffic although several vessels have left port with only a partial load. The totals are in for the month of August and cargo moved through the port is up from the same period last year. 400,000 tons more of cargo has been shipped through the port totaling 5.3 million tons as compared to 4.9 millions tons last year at the end of August. All types of cargo shipments are up with the exception of grain, which is down slightly.

    The Cartierdoc arrived and went to anchor around 7:30 p.m. Tuesday evening. At the same time the Cartierdoc was anchoring, the Lake Erie was departing UGG"m" and heading down the lake. The CSL Laurentien was anchored out off the North Entrance and was joined by the Cartierdoc. The Oakglen was sitting idle at Keefer Terminals as her temporary lay-up continues. The McNally Tugs Bagotville and Sandra Mary, along with 4 barges, are tied up at the Keefer Dock. McNally's dredge John Holden was working near the mouth of the Mission River in the old Abitibi dumping grounds.

    The Canadian Voyager arrived Tuesday in port and the Saltie Claudia is anchored off the main entrance. The tug Radium Yellowknife continues to sit idle at Northern Woods Old Ore Dock, along with her empty lumber barges.

    The saltie Lake Champlain, who arrived on August 29, is docked at Keefer Terminals around the corner from the Oakglen. Crew members have been working on the hatch covers ever since she arrived in port.

    Further to the find of the "Ship Graveyard" in Thunder Bay that was reported in July, it contains the remains of at least 26 derelict tugs, barges and small freighters. The first boat has been positively identified as the A. B. Conmee. The team consisting of Ryan Leblanc, Ken Englebrecht, Dan Kuss and Rob Farrow went out on Friday and again used side-scanning sonar to survey the area. A new and very promising target was picked up and marked. On Saturday the team went back out, this time with a drop video and recorded images of an intact tug of about 80-feet in length. Upon further viewing of the tape, faint letters where noticed on the front of the Pilothouse that consisted of C O N. This is a huge find in terms of historical value. This tug was built in 1881in Owen Sound, ON by John Simpson as the Superior. In 1917 she was rebuilt as the A. B. Conmee at Port Arthur, ON by Canadian Towing and Wrecking Co., Ltd. In the 1930's she was part of the group of derelict vessels included in a contract to clean up the harbor. These vessels were towed out to be scuttled in the Bay in deep water. A presentation will be made at the "Gales of November" shipwreck seminar that is held in Duluth, MN in November.

    Radium Yellowknife at Old Ore Dock.
    Algowest departing
    Andromeda at Richardson.
    Anja at P & H.
    Bagotville at Keefer.
    Claudia at anchor.
    Candian Progress arrives.
    John Holden in Old dumping grounds.
    Lake Champlain at Keefer.
    Lake Erie at UGG "m".
    Oakglen in Temp Lay-up at Keefer.

    Reported by: Rob Farrow




    A look inside the Algosteel

    09/05
    On Saturday night, I was invited to go to Thunder Bay Terminals and board the Algosteel. The very kind individual on the Algosteel to give me an invitation was Dana Andrews, 2nd Engineer and a boatnerd himself. The Algosteel arrived Saturday night at 10:00 p.m. and loaded 19,000 metric tons of coal bound for Sault Ste. Marie, ON. She departed in the early morning hours on Sunday. Dana gave me a tour of the Engine room and then had to get some sleep before waking up for his 4:00 a.m. watch. Many Thanks to Dana and his wife Deb.

    Engine Room.
    Engine Controls.
    Hydrolic Steering Assembly on the Rudder Post .
    Life Ring on Deck.
    Loading Coal into hold.
    Name on Port Stern.
    Stern Anchor Winch.
    Dana Andrews in Engine Control Room.

    Reported by: Rob Farrow




    Detroit Traffic

    09/05
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Tuesday.

    Pintail (Cyprus) upbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Algonova upbound in the Ballards Reef Channel. She is bound for Sarnia in ballast to load for Soo, ON.
    Stern view.
    Capt Ralph Tucker upbound in ballast after departing the General Chemical Dock in Amherstburg bound for Manistee, MI.
    The Ambassador Bridge at sunset. Taken from the Wyandotte Channel.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Lorain Update

    09/05
    The barge Joseph H. Thompson and tug Jr. were backing into the Lorain Pellet Terminal at noon Tuesday to unload. The Wolverine loaded in port on Tuesday and was on the way to Cleveland around 1:00 p.m. for the first of three shuttles to LTV Steel.

    Pictures by TZ
    Thompsong in Lorain.
    Close up of the tug in the notch.
    Unloading.
    Close up.

    Reported by: Rex Cassidy




    Toledo Update

    09/05
    The Cuyahoga was upbound the Maumee River around 11:00 a.m. Tuesday morning bound for one of the Anderson Elevator complexes to load a grain cargo. The USCGC Neah Bay was in drydock at the shipyard. The Reserve arrived at the Torco Dock and started unloading ore at 3:45 a.m. and was expected to depart late in the morning.

    The dredge Buxton II and related equipment with their tug Muskegon was 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 the tug John Henry was tied up in the canal by the Bayshore Edison power plant just north of the Torco Docks.

    The next scheduled coal boats due in at the CSX Docks will be the CSL Niagara and Philip R. Clarke on Thursday. The Algosteel on Friday evening, followed by the Algobay and Frontenac on Sunday.

    The next scheduled ore boats due in at the Torco Dock will be the Middletown around 11:00 a.m. today. The Buckeye on Friday evening, followed by the Reserve on Sunday morning. The Adam E. Cornelius remains in lay-up at the CSX #1 Dock.

    Reported by: Jim Hoffman




    Hamilton News

    09/05
    The Algoport arrived at Stelco Tuesday to unload iron ore pellets at 9:30 a.m. It was refueled by the Hamilton Energy that morning as well.

    Around 4:00 p.m. the CSL Niagara came into Stelco to unload coal.

    The deck barge LeVent was towed Monday from Heddle Marine to Port Weller for conversion to a tank barge.

    Tuesday evening, the Canadian Venture had finished unloading iron ore pellets at Dofasco and was readying for departure.

    Reported by: Patricia Burgon




    Duluth Gathering

    09/05
    A weekend of boat watching and touring is planned for September 22-23 in Duluth. The weekend starts on Saturday with a Harbor Cruise aboard the Vista Fleet. The fleet's tour boats will take us up close to all the boat watching action in port.

    Other planned events include a tour of the U.S. Coast Guard Base, the DMIR ore dock and the opportunity to visit and tour the museum ships Meteor and William A Irvin.

    Click here for more information.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 05

    On September 5, 1964, the 730-foot bulk freighter Leecliffe Hall sank after colliding with the Greek ocean vessel Appolonia in the St. Lawrence River.

    The CHI-CHEEMAUN completed her sea trials on September 5, 1974 and then cleared the shipyard on September 26th.

    The BENJAMIN F. FAIRLESS cleared Lorain on her maiden voyage September 5, 1942.

    The MORGAN, JR. returned to service September 5, 1948 after repairs suffered in an accident in June.

    The NEW QUEDOC arrived at McLouth Steel, Trenton, MI on her maiden voyage September 5, 1960 with a load of Labrador iron ore.

    The WYANDOTTE (2) was towed down the Welland Canal on September 5th & 6th on her way to the cutters torch.

    On 5 September 1905, ABERCORN (wooden propeller “rabbit”, 126’, 261GT, built in 1873 at Marine City, MI) burned at the dock at Goderich, Ont. While unloading coal. She reportedly caught fire from the explosion of a signal lamp.

    The schooner CALEDONIA, wrecked the previous autumn near the Fishing Islands on Lake Huron, was raised and arrived in Port Huron on 5 September 1882 under tow to be rebuilt.

    Data from: Joe Barr, Father Dowling Collection, 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




    Transport Departs

    09/04
    The Canadian Transport departed Port Weller Dry Docks Monday morning sailing upbound. The Transport was at Port Weller for repairs after suffering during an engine room fire in July while unloading in Naticoke.

    Canadian Transport at the dry dock last month Jeff Thoreson

    Reported by Jimmy Sprunt and Jeff Thoreson




    Windoc Tow

    09/04
    The Windoc is expected to be towed from the Welland Canal some time today. The tow will move upbound and is rumored to be headed to Windsor, Ontario to off load its cargo of grain. No official announcement has been made on the future of the ship after unloading

    Reported by Jimmy Sprunt




    New Barge Arrives at Port Weller Dry Docks

    09/04
    McAsphalt Industries new barge Norman McLeod arrived at Port Weller Dry Docks Sunday night and was placed in the deep dry dock. Monday morning it was moved to the fit out wall. The barge was built at the Jinling Shipyard in China and will carry of heavy oils and asphalt products on the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence River and East Coast.

    It was reported to have been damaged in the tow over seas with another barge and repaired before arriving on the Seaway. The dry docking may have been for survey.

    The barge was towed up the St. Lawrence from the Iroquois Lock on September 1. The tow had spent the night on the tie wall below the Iroquois Lock. It was towed into Port Weller by the tugs Josee M. and Bonnie B. III.

    Completion of the barge's outfitting will take place and it is expected to sail by fall 2001. The two-phase construction offered the owners both economic advantages with steel construction and coatings and Canadian expertise in equipment and fit out quality.

    The ice strengthened OPA double-hulled barge is capable of carrying 11,300 cu. m. of asphalt or other black oils at 23-ft. draft. State of the art heating system, bow thruster, onboard pollution prevention equipment, and overall design will make it safe and efficient liquid product carrier to service the internal needs for McAsphalt Industries and other third party business.

    The modern barge will be fitted to the tug Everlast, a specially designed 6,000 hp twin screw tug fitted with an Articouple system of hydraulic rams allowing ship like navigation efficiency and performance in both speed, maneuverability and safety even in rough weather conditions. The tug and barge are also fitted with full towing capabilities. The overall unit length will be just over 500 ft. with a 70 ft. beam.

    McAsphalt will provide all marketing and traffic services while Upper Lakes Group Inc. will manage the pair's operations.

    The tug Everlast arrived from the Caribbean last year and dock below Lock 1 at Port Weller. In December 2000 it was move to Hamilton as crews prepared the tug for the barge's arrival.

    The tug was built in 1977 at the Hashimoto Zosen Shipyard in Japan as hull number 396 and entered service under the name Bilibino for the Far Eastern Shipping Corporation out of Russia. She sailed as such until a sale in December of 1996 saw her ownership change to Portolos Salvage and Towage of Greece. They applied the name Everlast that was retained after she was again sold to McAsphalt Marine Transportation in November of 1999.

    Its dimensions are 143-feet in length, 44-feet in width, 21-feet in depth. It is registered at 1,361 Gross tons, 408 Net with a deadweight tonnage of 336. Her two Daihatsu engines produce a combined 6,000 horsepower and drive 2 propellers that can push the tug along at around 13.5 knots.

    Drawing of tug and barge from Upper Lakes Group.
    Tug Everlast in Hamilton this past spring
    Another view

    Reported by Jimmy Sprunt and Ron Beaupre




    Fleetmates in Thunder Bay

    09/04
    The Oakglen arrived Saturday afternoon and docked at Keefer Terminals, just as fleetmate Mapleglen was departing downbound from Richardson's. The vessel is rumored to be entering temporary Lay-up at the wall. There was no activity around the vessel.

    Reported by Rob Farrow and Ron Konkol




    Closing of the Seaway

    09/04
    The Seaway Authorities have announced the closing of the system. The Montreal - St. Lawrence section will accept transits up to midnight December 20. The Welland Canal is scheduled to close at 800 a.m. Dec. 24. Transits after this time may be permitted given demand and weather conditions.

    The Welland is planning a number of structural restoration projects and they must begin quickly in order not to delay the opening of the 2002 navigation season. The 2002 opening date for both sections is March 26, weather and ice conditions permitting.

    Reported by Ron Walsh




    New Board Members

    09/04
    New Board of Trustees members approved at the Great Lakes Historical Society Annual Meeting held on June 16, 2001 are Al Hart, James Karpinski, William Stark and Cliff Wolfe.

    Al hart has been a long time member and contributor to the GLHS and is an avid collector of Great Lakes' artifacts and maritime manuscripts.

    Jim Karpinski is past commodore of the Vermillion Yacht Club and has been boating on Lake Erie for 46 years.

    Bill Stark has previously served and the Board and as business manager of the GLHS.

    Cliff Wolfe is also on the Board of Directors of the Northcoast Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society and an active volunteer at the GLHS.

    Reported by Dave Wobser




    Alpena Update

    09/04
    The Fred R.White Jr. arrived at the Lafarge coal dock Sunday night to unload. The Alpena arrived into port Monday morning to load for Superior,WI. The Jacklyn M/barge Integrity waited at anchor until the Alpena departed. The Paul H. Townsend is due at Lafarge Tuesday afternoon.

    The J.A.W Iglehart is heading for Detroit. The Herbert C. Jackson and David Z. Norton were scheduled to load at Stoneport on Monday.

    Reported by Ben and Chanda Bruski




    Theodore Visits Chicago

    09/04
    The tug Theodore Too made its way to Chicago's Navy Pier over Labor Day weekend giving tours and joy to all ages. According to the crew, the tug will depart today headed north to the Soo.

    Theodore at dock.
    Another view.
    View from the Navy Pier ferris wheel.

    Reported by Dan Sumption




    Detroit Traffic

    09/04
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Monday.

    Tug Mighty Jake at Nicholson's Slip.
    Stern view.
    Indiana Harbor unloading at Zug Island.
    Stern view.
    Salty Island Skipper (Greece) upbound at Grassy Island, she went to anchor at Ojibway Anchorage.
    Stern view.
    Saginaw upbound at Grassy Island with a load of salt from Cleveland for an "upper lakes port".
    Stern view.
    J A W Iglehart upbound at Fighting Island North Light bound for the Lafarge Dock in Detroit.
    Stern view.
    Sam Laud upbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    American Mariner passing the Sam Laud at Fighting Island North Light.
    Another view.
    American Mariner downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Atlantic Erie downbound at Grassy Island. (that was four ships in 24 minutes) The deckhouse has been painted.
    Stern view.
    Canadian Transfer upbound at Grassy Island in ballast to Goderich to load salt for Gladstone, MI..
    Stern view.
    Mapleglen unloading at the ADM Dock in Windsor.
    Stern view.
    tugs Stormont & Paul E No 1 at the Morterm Dock in Windsor.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Help Wanted

    09/04
    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.)




    Weekly Updates

    09/04
    I have been out of town for the holiday weekend and am having problems with my computer connection. The image files I have on the news page come as large zipped files (5-16 meg) and I cannot download them all on a dial up connection.
    The regular weekly updates and more news pictures will be delayed until Tuesday night or Wednesday morning.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 04

    Two favorites of many boatwatchers, entered service on August 4. The William Clay Ford (1) entered service on August 4, 1953, and the Edward L. Ryerson entered service on August 4, 1960.

    The MELISSA DESGAGNES sailed to Holland under her 'a' name ONTADOC (2) with a load of Bentonite from Chicago on August 4, 1979.

    The E.J. BLOCK was laid up for the last time at Indiana Harbor, IN on August 4 1984, the E.J. BLOCK was sold for scrap in late May, 1987.

    The D.M. CLEMSON (2) left Superior on August 4, 1980 in tow of Malcolm Marine's tug TUG MALCOLM for Thunder Bay where she was dismantled.

    The HOCHELAGA (2) was launched August 4, 1949 at the Collingwood Shipyards Ltd., Collingwood, Ont. for Canada Steamship Lines Ltd., Montreal, Que.

    On a foggy August 4, 1977 the POINTE NOIRE went hard aground near the entrance to the Rock Cut in the St. Marys River and blocked the channel. After her grain cargo was lightered by Columbia Transportation's crane steamer BUCKEYE, the POINTE NOIRE was released on August 6th. She was reloaded in Hay Lake and continued her downbound trip. Repairs to her bottom damage were completed at Thunder Bay. Ont.

    On 4 September 1902, ALICE M. BEERS (2-mast wooden schooner, 105’, 154GT, built in 1864 at Algonac, MI) was light when she hove to off the dock at Glen Arbor, MI in a gale. However, she slipped her anchor and was driven onto the channel marker. She was holed and drifted ashore where she later broke up. No lives lost.

    On 4 September 1876, CITY OF PORT HURON, a wooden steam barge, sank a few miles off shore near Lexington, Michigan at about noon. She was heavily loaded with iron ore and sprang a leak at about 11 o'clock. Most of the crew managed to get on top of the cabin while two were in the forward rigging as she went down in 6 fathoms of water. The heavy seas washed over those on the cabin. Captain George Davis and two others floated ashore on wreckage while a fish boat picked up the five others. No lives were lost.

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




    Windoc Update

    09/03
    The accident involving the Widoc last month has the vessel's owners facing difficult decisions. Repairs are estimated to cost more than 10 million dollars (Canadian), almost twice the original cost of early estimates. This amount is much higher than the reported insured value of the vessel, 6.5 million. Faced with the cost the vessel's owners, N.M. Paterson and Sons Ltd. may be forced to scrap the vessel, according to an article in Saturday's Hamilton Spectator.

    "The ship can be repaired, that is an option," Paterson told the Spectator. "I don't know if that is feasible, but repairs are not out of the question. There's a whole lot of things that have to happen."

    One factor in the repair would be insurance money from the St. Lawrence Seaway Corporation. Investigators have not determined why the bridge was lowered prematurely as the Windoc passed underneath.

    Paterson said one option is to replace the stern of the Windoc with that of another ship. A likely candidate would be the Windoc's sister ship the Algontario. That ship was damaged in an April 1999 grounding in the St. Marys River and has been docked in Thunder Bay since that time. The firm has three ships out of its seven vessel fleet that haven't sailed since 1996. Paterson commented on those vessels saying "They present options as well, but I'm not sure that is a high priority," Paterson added. "When you look at the whole process here, it's a pretty sickening feeling. We're looking at something that will take us months."

    The Windoc remains docked in the Welland Canal near Lock 7 waiting for a decision to be made on where the $8-million cargo of grain will be unloaded. Owners of the cargo are looking at unloading the cargo at elevators in Port Colborne and Windsor. Paterson hopes for a decision on a unloading port within a week. Once a decision is made the Windoc will have to be towed to the selected unloading port.

    Reported by: Wally Wallace




    Jackson visits Milwaukee

    09/03
    The Herbert C. Jackson under the command of Capt. Joe Ruch arrived in Milwaukee morning Sunday, Sept. 2 with 16,800+ tons of coal for Wisconsin Electric. 5 hours later the Jackson departed for Stoneport to load for Chicago.

    Mackinac Bridge walkers should be treated to a salute from the Jackson approximately noon on Labor day. 2 years ago the Jackson was westbound during the annual walk and Capt. Ruch gave the more than 62,000 bridge walkers an impressive series of salutes.

    Jackson arrives.
    unloading.
    High powered hoses are used to clean the hold.
    Looking into the hold.
    Deck chairs.
    Captain's garden.
    Inside the pilothouse.
    Work boat "Herbie Jr." on deck.
    Jackson departs.
    Heading to the lake.
    Iroquois, the former Mackinaw Island Arnold Line ferry.

    Reported by: Andy LaBorde




    Grain for Owen Sound

    09/03
    Mapleglen arrived in Owen Sound on Monday with three holds of Western Wheat for Great Lakes Elevator. She had finsihed unloading and departed early on Wednesday morning.

    Owen Sound Harbour very active during the Annual Salmon Spectacular which attracts about 4000 anglers. Top fish to Date was a 28.5 pound salmon, anglers are attracted by the $140,000 in prizes to be won. The derby ended Sunday Noon

    Reported by: Peter Myatt




    Twin Ports Report

    09/03
    The Twin Ports grain trade has been picking up in recent weeks, which means several vessels were in port Sunday at the elevators. Cenex Harvest States had two vessels in the berths Lady Hamilton was at #1 and Flintermaas was at #2, taking the spot that had been vacated the previous afternoon by an Algoma straightdecker. Isadora was at AGP in Duluth and Olga was anchored on the lake waiting for a berth.

    Midwest Energy Terminal was busy Sunday, loading Jean Parisien in the morning and Canadian Enterprise later in the day.

    Reported by: Al Miller




    Detroit Traffic

    09/03
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Sunday.

    Southdown Conquest & Susan W Hannah upbound at Grassy Island.
    close up of tug.
    Stern view.
    Bavaria (Antigua & Barbuda) upbound off Mama Juda.
    Stern view.
    John G Munson upbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Calumet downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Calumet passing the upbound Canadian Voyager off Mama Juda.
    Canadian Voyager upbound off Mama Juda.
    Stern view.

    Images from Saturday
    Lee A Tregurtha unloading in the Rouge Steel slip while being fueled by the barge Marysville and tug Carolyn Hoey.
    Stern view.
    Gaelic Tug Dock with Patricia Hoey, Shannon and Roger Stahl.
    Anyone remember the ex-Becker Towing and Gaelic tug B H Becker? Here she is as Jenny Lynn in the Rouge River.
    McKee Sons and Invincible upbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.
    Algobay downbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Duluth Gathering

    09/03
    Final details will be announced about the upcoming Gathering in Duluth Sept. 22 - 23 later this week. Be sure to join us in Duluth for a planned harbor cruise and ship tours.




    Aerial Views

    09/03
    Pilot and photographer Don Coles was flying over the Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River area Sunday and sent in the pictures below. All photographs are available for purchase. Don's company, Great Lakes Aerial Photos, is available for hire for any aerial photography need.

    Alioth.
    Anja on the Detroit River.
    Cuyahoga on Lake St. Clair.
    George A. Stinson unloading at Zug Island.
    Frontenac on the Detroit River.
    Halifax on the Detroit River.
    Indiana Harbor in the St. Clair.
    Stern view.
    Reserve on Lake Erie.
    Sam Laud on the Detroit River.




    Help Wanted

    09/03
    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.)




    Weekly Updates

    09/03
    I am out of town for the holiday weekend and am having problems with my computer connection.
    The regular weekly updates will be delayed until Monday or Tuesday night.




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 03

    On September 3, 1977, the Belle River (now Walter J. McCarthy, Jr.) set a Great Lakes record for coal when it loaded 62,802 tons of coal at Superior Midwest Energy Terminal on its maiden voyage. This record has since been surpassed many times.

    On September 3, 1981, the U.S. Steel bulk freighter Sewell Avery was laid up for the final time in Duluth.

    Keel laying ceremonies for the 437 foot bow section of the ROGER BLOUGH took place on September 3, 1968 and was float launched December 21, 1968 less ballast tanks because the existing dry dock wasn’t wide enough to accommodate her 105 foot width.

    SOODOC (b) AMELIA DESGAGNES ) departed on her maiden voyage when she loaded salt at Goderich, Ont. on September 3, 1976.

    The SEWELL AVERY was laid up for the last time September 3, 1981 at Superior, WI.

    The THOMAS LAMONT was cited for “exemplary service” by the U.S. Coast Guard. On September 3, 1981 for her role in the rescue of seventeen crew members from the burning CARTIERCLIFFE HALL on Lake Superior. The THOMAS LAMONT was laid up for the last time at Duluth’s Hallett dock #6A.

    The H.H. PORTER sailed on her maiden voyage September 3, 1920 light from Lorain to load iron ore at Two Harbors, MN.

    On September 3, 1985, PHILIP R. CLARKE plowed into the Drawbridge Cove Marina in Lorain's Black River damaging 5-10 small craft and sinking one at the steel dock. CLARKE managed to stop before hitting the Route 6 drawbridge.

    On 3 September 1887, BULGARIA (wooden propeller, 280’, 1888GT) was launched at W. Bay City, MI by J. Davidson (hull #16).

    September 3, 1910 - The MARQUETTE & BESSEMER No. 2 (2) was launched in Cleveland by American Shipbuilding.

    On 3 September 1869, the 167' wooden propeller BOSCOBEL burned about two miles below St. Clair, Michigan. Three lives were lost. The ship was only about two years old and was in service of the New York Central Railroad, though owned by the Peshtigo Lumbering Co. of Chicago. The burned hulk was raised in 1876 and rebuilt as a schooner-barge at Algona, Michigan. She lasted until 1909 when she sank on Lake Huron.

    Data from Max Hanley, 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




    Saginaw visits Thorold

    09/02
    Saturday saw the Saginaw make a rare visit to Wharf 6 Industrial dock in Thorold, just south of Lock 7 and east of the old guard gate in the Welland Canal.Within 5 minutes of docking her boom was swung out and was unloading a load of fine coal.

    From Thorold the Saginaw will sail to Cleveland and load a cargo of salt for Owen Sound.

    Sunday afternoon the Canadian Navigator was secured above Lock 7 as she waited for the salty Lake Michigan, formerly the Federal Maas, to exit the lock on her way to the lakehead for a cargo of grain. The Navigator then proceeded into the lock downbound loaded possibly with coal for steel mills in Hamilton.

    Saginaw bow.
    Saginaw heading to the dock.
    Another view.
    Unloading.
    Another view.
    Lake Michigan departs the lock with a push from her bow thruster.
    Lookingnup at her super structor.
    Stern view.
    Approaching the Navigator.
    Canadian Navigator below the lock.
    Entering Lock 7.


    Reported by: Alex Howard




    White Departs

    09/02
    The H. Lee White departed Bay Ship Building in Sturgeon Bay Friday evening. The repair of the unloading system complete, she departed through the ship canal to Lake Michigan heading for her next port of call.

    Reported by: Vic DeLarwelle




    Today in Great Lakes History - September 02

    ALGOSEA (built in 1970 by Lithgows Ltd., Glasgow, Scotland as Hull #1177) was launched on September 2, 1970 as a) BROOKNES for "Langra" Schiffahrsges G.m.b.H. & Co., Hamburg, Germany. She is now the c) SAUNIERE

    ROBERT KOCH's first trip was on September 2, 1977 up the Welland Canal bound for Buffalo with cement.

    The W.F WHITE was one of the earliest ships built as a self-unloader on the Great Lakes. On her maiden voyage September 2, 1915 the WHITE loaded coal at Erie, PA and sailed for Menominee, MI. She was the largest self-unloading bulk carrier on the Lakes at that time with a cargo capacity of 10,500 tons.

    The RALPH H. WATSON departed light September 2, 1938 from Detroit, MI upbound to load iron ore at Duluth, MN. She was built as part of a fleet modernization plan for the Pittsburgh Steamship Co., Cleveland, OH. of four new "GOVERNOR MILLER' class bulk carriers.

    On September 2, 1938, the Ralph H. Watson, only the fourth steam turbine powered vessel on the Lakes, entered service.

    HUBERT GAUCHER ran aground in the lower St. Lawrence on September 2, 1988. It took three tugs to free her, repairs took place at Quebec City.

    ZIEMIA TARNOWSKA lost her engine while docking at Pier 24 in Cleveland, ramming the dock and caused about $100,000 in damage to the dock on September 2, 1988. The Polish vessel had minimal damage to her bulbous bow.

    On 2 September 1851, BUNKER HILL (wooden sidewheeler, 154’, 457T, built in 1835 at Black River, OH) burned to a total loss at Tonawanda, NY.

    The COLONEL ELLSWORTH (wooden schooner, 138', 319 gt, built in 1861 at Euclid, Ohio as a bark) was beached on Whitefish Point in Lake Superior the entire winter of 1895-96. She was repaired and put back into service late in the summer of 1896. Then, on 2 September 1896, the newly rebuilt vessel collided with the schooner EMILY B. MAXWELL about 6 miles from White Shoals on Lake Michigan and sank at about 400 AM. Her crew escaped in the yawl and was picked up by the MAXWELL.

    Data from: Joe Barr, David Swayze, 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 Saginaw

    09/01
    The Canadian Transfer was finally able to depart the Bay City Wirt Dock Friday morning. She departed at 8:30 a.m. for the Buena Vista Dock to unload. The Transfer spent 30 hours waiting in Bay City for the water level to come back up in the Saginaw River after strong south winds lowered the level. She departed that evening.

    The Paul H. Townsend was outbound the Saginaw River Friday morning after unloading cement at the Lafarge Terminal in Carrollton. She passed the Front Range at 8:35 a.m. on her way to the lake.

    The Tug Mark Hannah and her tank barge were outbound the Saginaw River early Friday morning, departing from the Dow Chemical Dock at 12:30 a.m.

    The St. Clair who arrived Thursday morning to unload coal at Consumers Energy, was still at the dock late Friday night. The ship will need to back stern first out into the Saginaw Bay to turn around, the St. Clair is waiting for 25 knot winds to die down before going out and making the turn.

    The Wolverine is back for the second day in a row, arriving late Friday night with a load of stone for Bay City Wirt.

    Reported by: Stephen Hause, Lon Morgan and Todd Shorkey




    First Visit for Grand River Navigation

    09/01
    The Maumee arrived at the NRG Power Plant in Dunkirk, New York about 10:00 a.m. Thursday with a load of coal. This is the first time that a Grand River Navigation ship has called on the port. Previously the cargoes were handled by USS triple A's.




    Busy morning in Quebec City

    09/01
    Quebec City was busy Friday morning with a number of vessels in port. The Algoville was finishing unloading grain at Section 18 (Bunge) before heading for the gulf in Havre-St-Pierre. The Canadian Prospector was waiting for the Algoville to clear at section 26, also loaded with a load of grain.

    Passing by downbound were Algocen and fleet mate Algonova. The grain storage barge made from the former hull of the Canadian Explorer is standing docked at section 105.

    The French cruise ship Le Levant was passing with Montreal as its next destination. The Cape May Light was at Pointe-à-Carcy, the old town cruise terminal.

    On the international trade, big bulker Porto Cervo was loading grain for Bengladesh at section 28 (Bunge) and Acina was unloading petroleum products at section 51, while Arizona Dream was waiting at Levis anchorage for a top-off load of grain at Bunge (section 28) when the Cervo finished.

    Reported by: J.F. Boutin




    Laud in Green Bay

    09/01
    Friday morning the Sam Laud was departing Green Bay after unloading over night. She was making her turn in the turning basin at the mouth of the Fox River that morning.

    On Wednesday Western Lime expects a load of limestone to be delivered on the barge Great Lakes Trader, coming from Port Inland, MI.

    Bow view as the Laud turns.

    Reported by: Dave Valine




    Heavy Lift in Oshawa

    09/01
    The heavy lift ship Tramper was in Oshawa Friday loading large pipes it will take to the Dominican Republic. The ship was docked at the east side of the port and was expected to depart some time today.

    Big Lift ship Tramper loading on the East Side of the Oshawa Port.
    Another view.
    Cargo is loaded.

    Reported by: Jim Gallacher




    Detroit Traffic

    09/01
    Below are images of traffic on the Detroit River Friday.

    Saginaw resplendent in her livery downbound off Mama Juda.
    Stern view.
    Saginaw passes Maumee in the Ballards Reef Channel.
    Diamond Jack checked down on her usual run waiting for the traffic jam in the Ballards Reef Channel (Saginaw down, Maumee and Algowood upbound.
    Maumee upbound at Grassy Island. You can see her USS colors.
    Stern view.
    Algowood upbound at Grassy Island.
    Stern view.

    Reported by: Mike Nicholls




    Great Laker in Duluth News Tribune

    09/01
    The Duluth News Tribune ran a story on Friday about the new magazine Great Laker.

    Click here to read the article.

    Reported by: Mike Cleary




    Collectors Button

    09/01
    The SS City of Milwaukee National Landmark is offering collector buttons to celebrate the ship's 70th year. The buttons cost $15 for adults and/or $10 for kids under 12, plus $5 for shipping and handling. Buttons are available aboard the SS City of Milwaukee, in Ludington by seeing Max Hanley, or by mail.
    The mail ordering address is:
    SS City of Milwaukee, C/O George P. Micka IV.
    1308 W. Summit Ave., Muskegon, MI 49441.

    Proceeds from the buttons will be used towards restoring the SS City of Milwaukee. During 2001, over $32,644 worth of contractor, volunteer labor, materials, supplies, equipment, and services were used to help restore the ship's potable and waste water systems. The National Park Service Challenge Cost Share Program contributed $10,000 towards the project, and the Sloan Valve Co. made a product donation. Next year's goal is to restore the ship's heating system, to allow year-round use of the vessel.

    Image of the button.

    Reported by: the Society for the Preservation of the S.S. City of Milwaukee




    Help Wanted

    09/01
    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 - September 01

    Tragedy struck four days after the launch of the AGAWA CANYON, September 1, 1970, when the ship was rocked by an engine room explosion killing one of the crew and injuring seven more. The AGAWA CANYON entered service in November, 1970. New engines were fitted in 1975, equipped with four 10 cylinder, two stroke cycle, single acting opposed piston diesel engines, built in 1970 by Fairbanks, Morse (Canada), Kingston, Ont. Total bhp 6,680. Rated service speed: 12 knots (13.8 mph).

    LAKE NIPIGON was launched September 1, 1970 as a) TEMPLE BAR, BR.341240, for Lambert Bros. (Shipping) Ltd., London, England.

    Upon her arrival at Quebec City on September 1, 1962, the LAKE WINNIPEG was the first vessel to enter the Nipigon Transport fleet.

    ROGERS CITY (2) was launched September 1, 1923 as a) B.H. TAYLOR, the third self-unloader built for the Bradley Transportation Co., Rogers City, MI.

    From September 1, 1947 to September 15, 1959 the MESQUITE was stationed at Sault Ste. Marie, MI

    On 1 September 1854, ABIAH (2-mast wooden schooner or brig, 134’, 353T, built in 1848 at Irving, NY) was sailing light from Chicago to Oconto, WI when she capsized and sank in a squall about 10 miles off Sheboygan, WI. The schooner L. LUDDINGTON rescued her crew and 2 passengers.

    The 135' wooden schooner JOSEPH E. SPARROW was launched at Bangor, Michigan on 1 September 1873.

    On 1 September 1900, the Canadian steamer ADVANCE (wooden propeller package freighter, 168’, 1178 gt, built in 1884 at St. Catharine’s, Ontario) was placed in service. In August 1899, when she was named SIR S. L. TILLEY, she had caught fire off shore, about 7 miles from Fairport, Ohio and was destroyed. However, the hull was later recovered and used as the basis of the steamer ADVANCE. She lasted in this role until 1903 when she burned again.

    September 1, 1919 - A switchman was killed in the yard at Manitowoc while the ANN ARBOR NO. 6 was being loaded. This caused a delay of four hours in her sailing time.

    September 1, 1931 - W.L. Mercereau retired as superintendent of steamships, a position he had held since 1899.

    Data from: Max Hanley, 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



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