Vessel Type

The Belle King was a wooden-hulled propeller steam Tug, a type of vessel commonly used in the 19th century for towing and assisting larger ships in harbours and along the Great Lakes. These tugs were essential for manoeuvring vessels in confined or challenging waters, especially during adverse weather conditions.

Description(Life in the Finger Lakes)

Constructed in 1863 by G. Fordham in Toledo, Ohio, the Belle King was a modestly sized steam Tug, measuring 37 gross tons and 18 net tons. Her wooden Hull and steam propulsion system were typical of the era’s tugboats, designed for durability and reliability in the demanding environments of the Great Lakes.(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)

History(MAST)

On July 18, 1877, the Belle King encountered a severe gale on Lake Erie near Peach Point, South Bass Island. The vessel sprang a leak during the storm, leading to her stranding and eventual capsizing. The crew Abandoned the Tug as she began to overturn. Despite the perilous conditions, all crew members survived the incident. The Belle King was declared a Total Loss following the accident. (Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)

Final Disposition(YouTube)

After the incident, the Belle King was deemed a Total Loss. There is no available information regarding salvage operations or the current state of the wreck.(Great Lakes Boating)

Located By & Date Found

As of current records, there is no publicly available information indicating that the wreck of the Belle King has been located or surveyed.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories related to the Belle King. Mariners operating in the vicinity of South Bass Island should consult the latest nautical charts and local notices for any updates.(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The loss of the Belle King in 1877 highlights the challenges faced by maritime operations on the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Despite advancements in shipbuilding and navigation, vessels remained vulnerable to the region’s unpredictable and often severe weather conditions. The incident underscores the importance of continued vigilance and respect for the power of nature in maritime activities.

Suggested Keywords & Categories

Keywords: Belle King, steam Tug, Lake Erie shipwreck, 1877 gale, South Bass Island(Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)

Categories: Shipwrecks of Lake Erie, Great Lakes Maritime History, 19th-Century Tugs, Maritime Disasters

Glossary Terms:

  • Propeller Steam Tug: A small, steam-powered vessel equipped with a propeller, used primarily for towing and assisting larger ships.
  • Stranding: The act of a vessel running aground or being driven ashore.(Wikipedia)
  • Capsizing: The overturning of a vessel in the water, often leading to sinking or loss.
  • Total Loss: A term indicating that a vessel is damaged beyond repair or recovery.

Shore Dive Information

Given that the Belle King‘s wreck has not been located and is presumed to have deteriorated over time, there is no shore dive information available for this site.