C.M. Tibbats, Erie, Pennsylvania

C.M. Tibbats was an influential figure in the mid-19th century maritime commerce of Erie, Pennsylvania, and was recognized for his investments and ownership of vessels operating on the Great Lakes. Erie’s strategic position along Lake Erie made it a vital hub for shipping, trade, and shipbuilding, and individuals like Tibbats played a significant role in facilitating and advancing these activities.

Role in Shipping and Vessel Ownership

C.M. Tibbats was notably involved in the ownership of vessels, one of the most prominent being the L.D. Coman, a wooden schooner built in 1848 by the shipbuilders Carrick & Wilkes in Erie. Under Tibbats’ ownership, the L.D. Coman served as a cargo carrier on the Great Lakes, transporting goods essential for regional industries, such as lumber, grain, coal, and other commodities. This vessel and others like it helped facilitate trade within the Great Lakes network, connecting inland cities and fostering economic growth.

Maritime Influence and Economic Impact

The involvement of individuals like C.M. Tibbats in vessel ownership was crucial for supporting the supply chains and commercial routes necessary for Great Lakes trade. As an Erie-based businessman, Tibbats’ operations would have contributed to Erie’s local economy, supporting employment in shipping, crewing, and related maritime services. His investments in vessels underscored the need for a robust shipping fleet during a time when waterborne transportation was critical to connecting and sustaining the burgeoning economies around the lakes.

Legacy

While specific records about Tibbats’ broader business ventures or additional vessel ownership are limited, his connection to the L.D. Coman highlights his role in Erie’s maritime industry during a pivotal era. As Great Lakes shipping became increasingly vital for regional trade, figures like Tibbats and their fleets of schooners and cargo vessels were instrumental in linking Erie with the wider trade networks of the 19th-century United States and Canada.

Resources for Further Research

For more information about historical figures in Great Lakes shipping, including C.M. Tibbats:

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• Great Lakes Ships Database: Great Lakes Ships Database