Identification & Site Information

Vessel Type

The Chicago was a wooden-hulled package freighter, designed to carry mixed cargoes of goods and supplies, known as “package freight,” across the Great Lakes. These vessels played a vital role in transporting both bulk and general cargo, connecting industrial centres with remote ports throughout the region.

Description

Built by Thomas Quayle & Sons in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1879, the Chicago was a large two-Deck wooden steam freighter. She was powered by a steeple compound engine manufactured by Globe Iron Works, producing 500 horsepower. The engine had four cylinders (20 & 40 inches in diameter with a 20-inch stroke) and was supported by two large firebox boilers (8 x 16 ft), generating steam at 96 pounds of pressure. The vessel’s single screw propeller provided efficient propulsion for the long hauls typical on the Great Lakes.

Her design reflected the evolving maritime technology of the time—balancing traditional wooden construction with advanced steam propulsion systems. The Chicago was also rigged with two masts, likely used for auxiliary sails, signaling, or rigging support.

History

The Chicago had an eventful and dynamic career spanning three decades, marked by multiple incidents and changes in ownership.  1879: Launched in June for the Western Transit Company of Buffalo, NY, a major player in Great Lakes shipping during the era. 1882: Reassessed to 1,847.34 gross tons, reflecting possible modifications or remeasurement under new tonnage rules.  1883 (Boiler Explosion): In August, one of her boilers exploded off Buffalo, NY, a dangerous incident that highlighted the risks associated with early steam technology. Despite this, she was repaired and returned to service.  1900 (Collision with H.W. SAGE): On July 30, 1900, while navigating near Harsen’s Island in the St. Clair River, the Chicago’s wheel chains broke, causing her to collide with and sink the schooner-barge H.W. SAGE. This incident resulted in the loss of one or two lives aboard the H.W. SAGE, whose crew was caught in the Forecastle during the collision. The Chicago survived the incident with damage but was repaired.  1901: Renamed ROME following changes in ownership, marking a new phase in her career. 1904–1909: Passed through several owners, including Gibson L. Douglass (Buffalo, NY), W.B. Spears (Bay City, MI), and J.W. Norcross (Toronto, ON). By 1909, she was owned by the Consolidated Steam Ship Company, Ltd. of Port Arthur, Ontario.

Final Disposition

On November 17, 1909, while waiting to pass through the Soo Locks near Lime Island in the St. Mary’s River, the vessel—still operating under the name ROME—caught fire. She was carrying a cargo of hay and cement, both of which are highly flammable or sensitive to heat. Fires on wooden freighters were often catastrophic due to the combination of wooden superstructures, coal-fired boilers, and combustible cargo.

The blaze quickly consumed the ship, and she was declared a Total Loss. Fortunately, there are no reports of fatalities associated with this incident, suggesting the crew had enough time to evacuate. The remains of the vessel lie east of Lime Island, near Raber, Michigan, in the St. Mary’s River, connecting Lake Superior to Lake Huron.

Located By & Date Found

While the exact discovery date of the wreck isn’t documented, the wreck’s location near Lime Island is known due to historical records. Divers and maritime historians have documented the area, but the condition of the wreck remains unclear, as river currents and sediment could have affected its preservation.

NOTMARs & Advisories

No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically mention the wreck of the Chicago/ROME. However, the St. Mary’s River is a heavily trafficked waterway with numerous navigational aids, and mariners are advised to follow updated charts and advisories when operating near Lime Island.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The Chicago’s story reflects the dynamic history of Great Lakes shipping during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. From a catastrophic boiler explosion to a fatal collision and eventual destruction by fire, her career highlights both the technological advancements and inherent dangers of maritime commerce in that era. Even after her renaming as ROME, her legacy persisted through historical accounts and maritime records, serving as a testament to the resilience of Great Lakes freighters and their crews.