IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

  • Vessel Name: CITY OF MIDLAND
  • Vessel Type: Propeller Passenger and Freight Steamer
  • Year Built: 1890
  • Builder: Simpson Shipbuilding Company, Owen Sound, Ontario
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 176 feet (53.6 m)
    • Beam (Width): 28 feet (8.5 m)
    • Depth: 11 feet (3.4 m)
  • Tonnage:
    • Gross: 974 tons
    • Net: 662 tons
  • Engine: 380-horsepower, two-cylinder propeller engine (85 RPM)
  • Boiler: 12 feet by 11 feet Scotch boiler operating at 127 pounds of steam pressure
  • Ownership: Originally owned by the North Shore Navigation Company
  • Service Area: Georgian Bay and Lake Huron
  • Final Incident: Destroyed by fire on March 17, 1916
  • Final Location: Grand Trunk Railway dock, Collingwood, Ontario

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The CITY OF MIDLAND was a wooden-hulled propeller Steamer, purpose-built for passenger and package freight transportation on Lake Huron and Georgian Bay. It featured two decks, offering ample space for cargo and passengers, and was powered by a robust steam engine and single screw propeller. Designed to navigate the often challenging waters of the Great Lakes, the vessel was a key asset for regional transportation and commerce during its operational years.

HISTORY

Construction and Early Service

The CITY OF MIDLAND was launched in 1890, built by the Simpson Shipbuilding Company of Owen Sound, Ontario. Commissioned by the North Shore Navigation Company, the vessel served as a vital link between Midland, Ontario, and other ports on Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, supporting the transportation of both passengers and goods.

Equipped with a powerful engine manufactured by John Doty Engine Works of Toronto, Ontario, the Steamer was capable of reaching speeds of 85 revolutions per minute. Its advanced engineering and spacious design made it a workhorse of Great Lakes maritime activity.

Grounding Incident and Rebuild

In November 1890, shortly after entering service, the CITY OF MIDLAND ran aground on the North Shore. The Steamer FAVORITEassisted in releasing the stranded vessel. The ship underwent a Rebuild in 1893, suggesting either extensive repairs or modifications to enhance its performance and capacity.

Service Life

During its operational years, the CITY OF MIDLAND carried passengers and freight along key routes on Georgian Bay and Lake Huron. It served as a reliable mode of transport for communities and industries in the region, contributing significantly to the area’s economic and social development.

FINAL DISPOSITION

On March 17, 1916, while docked at the Grand Trunk Railway dock in Collingwood, Ontario, the CITY OF MIDLAND was destroyed by a catastrophic fire. The incident occurred during the vessel’s winter lay-up period, as preparations were underway for the upcoming navigation season. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the blaze.

The wreck was raised from the water on June 12, 1916, but the damage was irreparable. The vessel was dismantled, marking the end of its service on the Great Lakes.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

• There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the site of the CITY OF MIDLAND. The vessel was dismantled after the fire, leaving no significant remains.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• David Swayze Shipwreck File

• Great Lakes Ships Database

CONCLUSION

The CITY OF MIDLAND was a valuable asset to the Great Lakes’ transportation network, providing passenger and freight services for over two decades. Its sudden loss to fire in 1916 was a significant blow to the maritime community of Georgian Bay. Though the vessel no longer exists, its story is preserved as part of the rich maritime heritage of the Great Lakes, serving as a reminder of the challenges faced by early Steamship operators and the vital role these vessels played in regional development.

Keywords: CITY OF MIDLAND, Great Lakes shipwreck, Collingwood Ontario, Georgian Bay Steamer, maritime history, steam-powered propeller, wooden freighter.