Identification & Site Information

The Edward C. Whalen was a steel-hulled, propeller-driven Tug, designed for towing and marine support operations in the challenging conditions of the Great Lakes, particularly on Lake Superior.

Constructed in 1913 by the Western Dry Dock Co. in Port Arthur (now part of Thunder Bay), Ontario, the Edward C. Whalen was a robust steel Tug built to withstand the harsh weather and demanding towing operations typical of Lake Superior. Her design reflected the technological advancements of early 20th-century shipbuilding, featuring steel construction and a powerful steam propulsion system, later converted to diesel.

History

The Edward C. Whalen had a long and eventful career, marked by multiple incidents, recoveries, and rebuilds.

Early Service: The Tug operated extensively on Lake Superior, engaging in towing and general marine services. Her sturdy steel Hull and powerful engine made her a reliable asset in the maritime industry, though she faced numerous challenges during her operational life.

First Major Incident (1947): On October 17, 1947, the Edward C. Whalen was wrecked during a storm on Lake Superior. Despite the severity of the incident, the vessel was salvaged and returned to service, highlighting her resilience and the value placed on her by her operators.

Final Major Incident and Recovery (1954): On June 8, 1954, the Edward C. Whalen Foundered off Corbiel Point during another severe storm on Lake Superior. The vessel was initially believed to be a Total Loss, and her documentation was surrendered as per maritime regulations. However, in 1957, she was successfully raised and towed to Fort William, Ontario (now Thunder Bay). This recovery effort underscores both the vessel’s value and the skill of Great Lakes salvagers.

Rebuild and Conversion: After her recovery, the Edward C. Whalen was towed to Sault Ste. Marie (Soo), Ontario, where she underwent extensive repairs and was converted from a steam-powered Tug to diesel between 1958 and 1966. Following this Rebuild, the Tug was redocumented as John McLean in 1966.

Later Service and Renaming: The Tug continued to operate under the name John McLean, serving Purvis Marine out of Sault Ste. Marie. In 1995, she was renamed Adanac (Canada spelled backward), and by 1998, she underwent another significant Rebuild, modernizing her further for continued service.

Current Status:

As of 2003, the Tug was still operational for Purvis Marine, reflecting an extraordinary lifespan for a vessel built in 1913. Her survival through multiple wrecks, recoveries, and rebuilds stands as a testament to the durability of her original construction and the continued importance of such vessels in Great Lakes maritime operations.

Final Disposition

Though the Edward C. Whalen was thought to be a Total Loss after foundering in 1954, she was recovered, Rebuilt, and remained in service under different names (John McLean and Adanac). As of 2003, the vessel was still in active service.

Located By & Date Found

Nil return. The vessel was raised in 1957, with no subsequent loss.

NOTMARs & Advisories

No specific navigational warnings or obstructions related to the Edward C. Whalen have been issued.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The Edward C. Whalen’s remarkable history of resilience and recovery embodies the rugged spirit of Great Lakes maritime operations. From her construction in 1913 to her survival of multiple wrecks and her transformation into Adanac, the vessel reflects both the challenges and triumphs of shipping on Lake Superior. Her continued service into the 21st century highlights the durability of early 20th-century shipbuilding and the critical role of tugs in supporting Great Lakes commerce and industry.

Suggested Keywords: Edward C. Whalen, John McLean, Adanac, Lake Superior tugboats, Great Lakes salvage operations, Corbiel Point shipwreck, Purvis Marine.

Categories: Shipwrecks of Lake Superior, Great Lakes tugboats, Maritime Salvage and Recovery.

Glossary Terms: Propeller Tug, Foundering, Diesel Conversion, Lake Superior Storms, Great Lakes Salvage Operations.