Identification & Site Information

  • Vessel Name: Commodore Jack Barry
  • Alternate Names: Constitution (predecessor designation), Misspelled as Jack Berry
  • Official Number: U126355
  • Vessel Type: Wooden Propeller Steam Tug
  • Year Built: 1885
  • Builder: James Elliott, Saugatuck, Michigan
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 71 feet (21.6 meters)
    • Beam: 16 feet (4.9 meters)
    • Depth: 9 feet (2.7 meters)
    • Gross Tonnage: Not specified
    • Final Location: Superior Harbor, Superior, Wisconsin, Lake Superior
  • Coordinates: Latitude N 46° 41.384’, Longitude W 091° 59.541’
  • Depth: 10 feet (3 meters)

Vessel Type Description

The Commodore Jack Barry was a wooden Tugboat with a steam-powered propeller, designed for towing operations in harbors and nearshore waters. The Tug was known for its speed and reliability, standing as one of the fastest tugs on Lake Michigan during its time. It served primarily as a utility vessel for assisting other ships in Muskegon Harbor and nearby areas.

History

Construction and Ownership:

The Tug was built in 1885 by James Elliott in Saugatuck, Michigan. It was initially owned by the Barry brothers (Miles, John, and Thomas) of Muskegon, Michigan. Named after Commodore John Barry, a Revolutionary War naval hero, the Tug symbolized the Barry family’s maritime heritage.

Early Service:

The Commodore Jack Barry earned a reputation for excellence in towing and harbor assistance operations. It was frequently seen navigating Muskegon Harbor and Lake Michigan, where it participated in towing tasks and even races, cementing its reputation as a swift and efficient vessel.

Fiery Trials:

The vessel endured two catastrophic fires during its career:

  • 1887 Fire: The Tug caught fire on Muskegon Lake, suffering damages estimated at $4,000. Despite the extensive damage, it was Rebuilt, showcasing the resilience of the Barry family and their commitment to their maritime operations.
  • 1897 Fire: On October 30, 1897, while in Superior Harbor, a fire erupted forward of the pilot house. The flames spread rapidly, consuming the Tug entirely. Despite efforts to extinguish the fire, the Commodore Jack Barry was destroyed, marking the end of its operational life.

Final Disposition

The Commodore Jack Barry was lost to fire in Superior Harbor, Superior, Wisconsin, on October 30, 1897. The wreckage lies submerged in Lake Superior at a shallow depth of approximately 10 feet (3 meters).

NOTMARs & Advisories

Current Notices: No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with this wreck. However, caution is advised when navigating the harbor due to the potential presence of submerged debris from the wreck.

Current Condition & Accessibility

  • Condition: The wreck remains at a shallow depth in Superior Harbor. Given the shallow waters, parts of the wreck may be visible depending on water conditions and sedimentation.
  • Accessibility: The site is accessible to divers and snorkelers. However, the shallow depth and location within a harbor may limit Visibility and make the wreck prone to interference from boat traffic.

Legacy

The Commodore Jack Barry holds a unique place in the Maritime History of the Great Lakes. Its multiple rebuilds and continued service after disasters highlight the tenacity of its owners and the vessel’s importance in the region’s maritime trade. Named after an American naval hero, the Tug symbolizes the spirit of resilience and innovation that characterized the maritime industry during the late 19th century.

Resources & Links

Keywords

#CommodoreJackBarry #Tugboat #LakeSuperior #GreatLakesShipwreck #MaritimeHistory #SuperiorHarbor #BarryBrothers

This report documents the history and loss of the Commodore Jack Barry, celebrating its role as a vital component of Great Lakes maritime operations while acknowledging the risks and challenges of 19th-century navigation.