Identification & Site Information

Vessel Type

Wooden schooner-barge, a type of unpowered sailing vessel commonly used in the Great Lakes to transport cargo while being towed by a steam-powered ship. Schooner-barges were efficient bulk carriers, often used to move materials such as coal, iron ore, lumber, and in this case, railroad supplies.

Description

The MARY ANN HULBERT was built in 1873 in Bayfield, Wisconsin, a port on the southern shore of Lake Superior known for its role in the lumber and shipping industries. The vessel was relatively small, at 62 gross tons, and served as a Schooner-Barge designed to be towed behind a Steamer, increasing the cargo capacity of shipping operations on the Great Lakes.

At the time of its final voyage, the MARY ANN HULBERT was carrying railroad supplies and workers, highlighting the vessel’s role in supporting the expansion of the railway system in northern Ontario and along Lake Superior’s rugged coastline.

History

The MARY ANN HULBERT operated as part of the growing network of Schooner-barges used to meet the increasing demand for bulk transportation across Lake Superior. The vessel’s ability to carry heavy loads made it a valuable asset in supporting industries such as railroad construction, mining, and logging in the remote areas of northern Ontario.

On its final voyage, the MARY ANN HULBERT was under tow by the Steamer KINCARDINE, a common practice that allowed for the movement of large quantities of goods across the lake. The Barge was bound for Michipicoten Island from Port Arthur, Ontario (modern-day Thunder Bay), carrying railroad supplies and 15 railroad workers, in addition to its crew of 5.

Final Disposition

On December 14, 1883, the MARY ANN HULBERT encountered a severe gale while being towed across Lake Superior. The vessel was overwhelmed by heavy waves and Foundered off St. Ignace Island, approximately 40 miles northeast of Thunder Bay.

The disaster resulted in the loss of all 20 people aboard—the 5 crew members and 15 railroad workers who were passengers. This makes the sinking of the MARY ANN HULBERT the worst sailing ship disaster in the history of Lake Superior in terms of loss of life.

Despite search efforts, no survivors or significant wreckage were ever recovered at the time, and the vessel was considered a Total Loss. The ship was commanded by Captain Martin O’Malley at the time of the disaster.

Located By & Date Found

Nil return. There are no confirmed reports of the MARY ANN HULBERT‘s wreck being located. Given the depth and remoteness of Lake Superior, the wreck may remain undiscovered, though it could potentially be identified in future underwater exploration efforts.

NOTMARs & Advisories

Nil return. No current navigational hazards related to this wreck are reported in the vicinity of St. Ignace Island.

Resources & Links

Conclusion

The sinking of the MARY ANN HULBERT on December 14, 1883, remains a tragic chapter in the history of Great Lakes shipping. As the worst sailing ship disaster in Lake Superior history in terms of lives lost, it underscores the perils faced by vessels navigating the lake’s treacherous waters, particularly in winter when gales and sudden storms were common. The vessel’s role in supporting the railroad expansion highlights the interconnectedness of shipping and industrial growth during this period. The loss of all 20 people aboard, including both the crew and railroad workers, serves as a somber reminder of the human cost of maritime commerce in the late 19th century.