Vessel Type and Construction

The A. McVittie was initially launched as a two-Deck package freighter by Detroit Dry Dock Co. in 1889. Its design and construction catered to cargo versatility, essential for the Great Lakes trade. Converted in 1912 into a Bulk Carrier, the vessel saw substantial structural modifications, including the removal of the upper Deck and the addition of external steel stiffeners to reinforce the Hull. It was also equipped with steel arches and plates on the bow, adding resilience against icy waters.

History

The vessel’s maiden owner, Ogdensburg Transportation Co., operated A. McVittie as part of a fleet supporting the Ogdensburg & Lake Champlain Railroad. The company primarily transported western grain for rail shipment from Ogdensburg, NY, as well as manufactured goods and stone. Over its operational life, A. McVittie experienced multiple ownerships and modifications, adapting to shifting transportation needs in the region.

Significant incidents in its history include:

• 1893: Grounding on Beaver Island, Lake Michigan; damages cost $1,500.

• May 5, 1895: Went ashore at Hammond’s Bay, Lake Huron, requiring repairs in Milwaukee, WI.

• August 17, 1915: Collision with the Tug Dolphin in Lac St. Louis, resulting in Dolphin’s loss but sparing A. McVittie.

By 1917, following the American Panama Canal Act, railway companies like Ogdensburg Coal & Towing Co. were forced to divest from their lake fleets, transferring ownership of A. McVittie to Canadian interests, including W. McDougald and later Montreal Transportation Co. Operating as a collier, A. McVittie continued its service on the St. Lawrence until a series of incidents severely impacted its condition.

Final Disposition

In September 1919, A. McVittie entered Buffalo Dry Dock for repairs. However, after sustaining storm damage on Lake Ontario in October and then striking Lock 12 of the Welland Canal in November, the vessel was considered a loss. It settled in Kingston Harbor on November 21, 1919, where it was eventually Abandoned to underwriters. In 1922, A. McVittie was raised and relocated to the inner harbor. Finally, in July 1925, it was raised a second time and scuttled in deep water, with its registration canceled on November 5, 1925.

Notable Historical Significance

The vessel’s history includes the involvement of Alex McVittie, an influential figure born in New Brunswick who contributed to Great Lakes maritime operations as an employee and later president of Detroit Dry Dock Co. The A. McVittie represents the era’s dynamic shipping needs, shifting from package freight to bulk transport, and enduring structural changes to remain viable in an evolving industry.

Resources & Links

For further details on A. McVittie and other historic Great Lakes vessels, refer to:

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive historical records and vessel databases.

• Bowling Green State University Great Lakes Maritime Database: Detailed data on Great Lakes vessels.

• C. Patrick Labadie Collection, Alpena Public Library: Archival records of vessel histories, incidents, and ownership changes.

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Documentation on Great Lakes shipwrecks and Abandoned vessels.

• Oswego Daily Times: Historical news archives related to shipping incidents.

The A. McVittie is a noteworthy vessel in the annals of Great Lakes history, symbolizing the technological adaptations and operational risks that characterized maritime trade in the early 20th century.