Identification & Site Information
• Vessel Name: Canisteo
• Type: Wooden Propeller Steambarge
• Year Built: 1886
• Builder: William Dulac, Mount Clemens, Michigan
• Dimensions:
• Length: 55.5 meters (182 feet)
• Beam: 10.4 meters (34 feet)
• Depth: 3.7 meters (12 feet)
• Gross Tonnage: 595 tons
• Engine: Steeple compound engine, 350 horsepower
• Boiler: 120-pound steam Firebox Boiler
• Last Registered Port: Detroit, Michigan
• Wreck Location: Scuttled near Lexington, Lake Huron
• Depth: Unknown
• Condition: Constructive Total Loss due to fire; scuttled in 1921
Vessel Type Description
The Canisteo was a wooden propeller-driven steambarge, a versatile vessel type used extensively for transporting bulk materials such as coal, ore, and lumber across the Great Lakes. The steambarge’s single-propeller configuration and robust construction made it suitable for enduring the harsh conditions of Great Lakes navigation. The addition of a clamshell rig and A-frame later in its service life allowed it to participate in the sand trade, further showcasing its adaptability.
History
The Canisteo was launched in 1886 at Mount Clemens, Michigan, and began its life as a reliable freighter for the Tonawanda Barge Line. Over its 34-year career, the vessel served various owners, reflecting the changing dynamics of the Great Lakes shipping industry.
Ownership Timeline:
• 1886-1903: Tonawanda Barge Line, Tonawanda, New York
• 1903-1908: L.R. McLaren, Toledo, Ohio
• 1908-1920: Eli Jacques & Sons, Duluth, Minnesota
During its operational years, the Canisteo underwent modifications to expand its capabilities. This included the addition of an A-frame and clamshell rig to enable it to handle bulk materials like sand.
Final Incident:
On a routine voyage in 1920 near Port Huron, Michigan, the Canisteo caught fire under unknown circumstances. Despite firefighting efforts, the blaze rapidly consumed the wooden vessel. Declared a constructive Total Loss, the ship was scrapped and its remains scuttled in 1921 near Lexington, Lake Huron. The precise cargo on board during the fire is undocumented, and no casualties were reported.
Final Disposition
The Canisteo was destroyed by fire in 1920 and subsequently scuttled in 1921 near Lexington in Lake Huron. The ship’s final resting place remains undetermined, although it is presumed to lie at the lakebed.
Located By & Date
The wreck of the Canisteo was deliberately scuttled in Lake Huron after being scrapped in 1921. Its precise coordinates remain unverified.
NOTMARs & Advisories
There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) regarding the wreck of the Canisteo. Mariners navigating near Lexington in Lake Huron should remain cautious due to the historical presence of wrecks in the area.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Since the Canisteo was scrapped and scuttled, its condition is presumed to be highly deteriorated. The lack of precise location data further complicates any exploration or recovery efforts. The site, if located, would likely be accessible only to experienced divers due to its age and presumed state of disintegration.
Resources & Links
• Great Lakes Ships Database: Comprehensive ship data and historical records
• Bowling Green State University Archives: Maritime history collections
• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Detailed shipwreck database
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Insights and archives on Great Lakes vessels
Conclusion
The story of the Canisteo illustrates the challenges and dangers faced by Great Lakes vessels during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Designed for bulk freight trade, the Canisteo faithfully served the shipping industry for over three decades before succumbing to fire. The decision to scuttle the vessel reflects a pragmatic approach to handling wrecks that could no longer be salvaged. Today, the Canisteo rests in Lake Huron, an enduring reminder of the region’s rich maritime history.
Keywords
• Canisteo Steambarge
• Lake Huron Shipwreck
• Port Huron Fire Incident
• Great Lakes Maritime History
• Scuttled Ships
• 19th-Century Steambarge