Built 1867 – Wrecked November 7, 1874

Identification & Vessel Details

Incident Summary & Cause of Loss

During a powerful late-season storm on November 7, 1874, the J. C. Keyes broke from her moorings at Duluth and was driven ashore onto the beach by the combined forces of wind, waves, and currents. Although initially there was hope for salvage, the damage was too severe, and the vessel was ultimately Abandoned and declared a Total Loss in 1880 (Great Lakes Shipwreck Files).

Final Disposition

Historical Significance & Context

  • Represents the transitional era of early steam Tug operations on Lake Superior, critical for supporting expanding harbor and lumber industry logistics
  • Reflects engineering limitations of small wooden steam vessels when facing harsh autumn storms typical of late November
  • The eventual abandonment, despite salvage hopefuls, illustrates the realities of maritime economics and repair feasibility during the 19th century

Sources & Archival Notes

  • Great Lakes Shipwreck Files – Technical specifications, incident chronology, and final disposition details provided in the vessel’s entry (Wikipedia, Great Lakes Shipwreck Files)

Research Gaps & Next Actions

  • Vessel Specs Confirmation: Locate shipyard records or registry documents to confirm tonnage and design
  • Duluth Press Coverage: Review November 1874 editions of Duluth Minnesotian or Duluth News Tribune for harbor logs, storm reports, or salvage team commentary
  • Salvage Company Notes: Investigate Duluth harbor engineering archives for potential salvage contracts or assessments between 1874–1880
  • Wreck Site Assessment: If Hull remains onshore or submerged, a dive or remote-sensing survey could confirm its status and offer heritage documentation

Conclusion

The J. C. Keyes, a small 1867 Buffalo-built steam Tug, was torn from her berth during a violent storm on November 7, 1874, and stranded ashore in Duluth’s harbor. Although considered for salvage, she was left to deteriorate and officially Abandoned by 1880. Her wreck highlights the vulnerabilities of early wooden steam tugs to Great Lakes autumn storms and the financial constraints of maritime repair operations during that era.