Identification & Site Information

  • Vessel Name: LAFAYETTE
  • Type: Steel Propeller Steamer
  • Built: 1900
  • Construction Location: Not specified, steel construction
  • Owner: Pittsburg Steamship Company, West Virginia
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 454 feet (138.4 meters)
    • Beam: 50 feet (15.2 meters)
    • Depth: 28.5 feet (8.7 meters)
    • Gross Tonnage: 5,113 tons
  • Final Location: Near Encampment Island, Lake Superior
  • Coordinates: 47°05’36”N, 91°33’00”W
  • Depth: 20 feet (6 meters)

Vessel Type Description

The LAFAYETTE was a steel-hulled Propeller Steamer, designed for bulk cargo transport. Built in 1900, it was part of the Great Lakes shipping fleet operated by the Pittsburg Steamship Company. Its advanced machinery and significant cargo capacity made it a vital part of the shipping operations in the early 20th century.

History

On November 28, 1905, the LAFAYETTE embarked on what would become its final voyage. The vessel was towing its Barge, the MANILA, through Lake Superior when it was caught in a blinding snowstorm combined with a powerful gale.

The Collision

  • The LAFAYETTE lost its bearings in the storm and signaled the MANILA to anchor.
  • As the MANILA attempted to halt, it collided with the Stern of the LAFAYETTE. Four crew members from the Steamer jumped onto the Barge before the two vessels separated.
  • The MANILA was carried broadside to shore, while the LAFAYETTE was left stranded.

Fatal Incident

During the rescue efforts, crew member Patrick Wade, a fireman from Buffalo, tragically lost his life. Attempting to cross a hawser line, Wade was propelled into the air when the line tightened and fell into the surf, where he was lost.

Final Disposition

The LAFAYETTE was declared a Total Loss, sinking near Encampment Island.

Salvage Operations

  • In 1906, salvage efforts recovered the Stern section, including the machinery and boilers.
  • This portion was towed to Duluth by the Steamer COLGATE and Tug ZENITH, where the machinery was repurposed for the MANILA, which was converted into a Steamer.
  • The forward portion of the vessel was eventually sold for scrap, marking the end of the LAFAYETTE’s service.

Current Condition

The wreck site lies in 20 feet (6 meters) of water near Encampment Island. While the Stern and machinery were salvaged, remnants of the forward section may still remain, buried under sediment or dispersed across the lakebed.

Diving Conditions

  • Depth: The shallow depth makes the site accessible for divers.
  • Visibility: May vary based on sedimentation and weather conditions.

Points of Interest:

The collision site and any remaining debris provide insight into early salvage operations and Great Lakes shipwrecks.

Legacy

The LAFAYETTE tragedy is remembered as part of the devastating 1905 storm, which wreaked havoc on Lake Superior, stranding multiple vessels and challenging the resilience of Great Lakes shipping.

Resources & Links

  • Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Detailed records and historical context on shipwrecks like the LAFAYETTE.
  • Great Lakes Shipwreck Preservation Society: Advocacy and conservation efforts for Great Lakes wrecks.
  • NOAA Shipwreck Database: For potential mapping and identification of the LAFAYETTE wreck.

Tags

LAFAYETTE Shipwreck, Lake Superior Shipwreck, Encampment Island Wreck, 1905 Great Lakes Storm, Pittsburg Steamship Company, Salvaged Steamer Machinery.