Identification & Site Information

  • Vessel Name: E.T. Carrington
  • Type: Sidewheel Tug
  • Built: 1876, by Thomas Boston, Bangor, Michigan
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 76 feet (23.2 meters)
    • Beam: 17 feet (5.2 meters)
    • Depth: 5.2 feet (1.6 meters)
  • Tonnage:
    • Gross: 57 tons
    • Net: 48 tons
  • Propulsion: Sidewheel, 15.5” x 17” engine generating 80 horsepower
  • Owner: Initially owned by the Rifle River Boom Company
  • Final Location: 15 miles northeast of Duluth, Minnesota, in Lake Superior
  • Date of Wreck: August 23, 1907

Vessel Type Description

The E.T. Carrington was a wooden sidewheel Tug, a vessel type known for its dual paddle wheels positioned on either side of the Hull. These tugs were commonly used in the 19th and early 20th centuries for towing rafts, assisting larger ships, and ferrying passengers and cargo. With a relatively modest size and power, the E.T. Carrington was well-suited for operations in Great Lakes harbors and waterways.

History

Construction and Service

Built in 1876, the E.T. Carrington served as a versatile vessel for both Tug and passenger services on the Great Lakes. The Tug was initially employed by the Rifle River Boom Company, primarily assisting in the logging industry, a vital economic activity in the region during the late 19th century. Its wooden construction and sidewheel propulsion system were typical of vessels designed for maneuverability and functionality in inland waters.

Notable Incidents

May 17, 1885/1886 Fire Incident: While towing a log raft near Baraga, Michigan, the E.T. Carrington narrowly escaped destruction when a fire broke out. Though the extent of the damage remains unclear, the incident highlighted the vessel’s vulnerability to accidents during its operational life.

Final Voyage

On August 23, 1907, the E.T. Carrington embarked on what would be its last journey, departing from Ashland, Wisconsin, for Duluth, Minnesota. During the voyage, a fierce storm erupted over Lake Superior, and the Tug began to take on water. Despite the crew’s efforts, the vessel succumbed to the elements and sank approximately 15 miles northeast of Duluth.

Rescue Efforts

The crew was fortunate to be rescued by the Steamer Frederick B. Wells, preventing the loss of life in this maritime disaster. The sinking marked the end of a vessel that had served the Great Lakes region for over three decades.

Final Disposition

The E.T. Carrington now rests at the bottom of Lake Superior, its exact location not publicly disclosed. Given the depth and cold conditions of the lake, the wreck may be well-preserved. However, no formal exploration or recovery efforts have been documented.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the wreck of the E.T. Carrington. The site remains part of the historical narrative of Lake Superior, though it is not a popular dive location due to its depth and location.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The E.T. Carrington was more than just a sidewheel Tug—it was a vital cog in the economic engine of the Great Lakes during its operational years. From its construction in 1876 to its final voyage in 1907, the vessel exemplified the challenges faced by Great Lakes mariners. Its tragic end serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the resilience of the maritime community. Though now lying beneath Lake Superior’s waters, the legacy of the E.T. Carrington lives on in the stories of those who sailed it and the records that preserve its memory.

Keywords • E.T. Carrington • Sidewheel Tug • Lake Superior Shipwreck • Great Lakes Maritime History • Frederick B. Wells Rescue • 19th-century Tugboats • Lake Superior Storms • Rifle River Boom Company