IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

  • Type: Steel Bulk Propeller Ship
  • Other Names: CADILLAC
  • U.S. Official Number: 126876 (as CADILLAC)
  • Canadian Official Number: 138230 (as MAPLEHURST)
  • Dimensions:
    • As CADILLAC:
    • As MAPLEHURST (1913):
      • Length: 235.1 ft (71.7 m)
      • Beam: 36.8 ft (11.2 m)
      • Depth: 15.4 ft (4.7 m)
      • horsepower: 254 HP
  • Location of Loss: Near the West Breakwater, Portage Ship Canal, Lake Superior
  • Name: MAPLEHURST (formerly CADILLAC)
  • Construction:
  • Builder: Unknown
  • Date Built: May 24, 1892
  • Material: Steel Hull
  • Ownership History:
  • Original Owner: Unknown (U.S.-based)
  • 1913: Purchased by Canada Steamship Lines and renamed MAPLEHURST
  • Home Port (1913): Montreal, Quebec

HISTORY

As CADILLAC (1892–1913):

The CADILLAC was a robust bulk propeller ship built in 1892. It served primarily in cargo transport on the Great Lakes, demonstrating reliable service for over two decades. Its steel construction and dimensions were well-suited for carrying large volumes of bulk goods.

As MAPLEHURST (1913–1922):

In 1913, the ship was renamed MAPLEHURST and registered under a Canadian number. It became part of the Canada Steamship Lines fleet, continuing its service on the Great Lakes with improved specifications and horsepower.

FINAL INCIDENT (December 1, 1922):

  • Event:
  • The MAPLEHURST was caught in severe weather near the Portage Ship Canal, Lake Superior.
  • The ship was driven ashore near the West Breakwater, with the force of the impact breaking the vessel in half.
  • Casualties: Tragically, 11 crew members lost their lives in the disaster.

• Outcome:

• The wreck was considered a Total Loss, marking a significant maritime tragedy on Lake Superior.

FINAL DISPOSITION

• Condition of Wreck: The ship broke in half upon grounding and remains near the West Breakwater of Portage Ship Canal.

• Legacy: The MAPLEHURST’s sinking is remembered as one of the tragic lake disasters in Great Lakes maritime history.

SIGNIFICANCE

The MAPLEHURST (CADILLAC) is a poignant example of the perils faced by Great Lakes vessels, particularly in the volatile weather conditions of Lake Superior. Its transition from a U.S.-registered ship to a Canadian one underlines the interconnected maritime trade between the two nations. The loss of 11 lives during its wreck underscores the dangers of early 20th-century shipping.

REFERENCES & LINKS

This report preserves the historical significance of the MAPLEHURST/CADILLAC, detailing its service and tragic end while honoring its contributions to Great Lakes maritime history.