The Reid Wrecking Company,

The Reid Wrecking Company, established in the early 20th century, was a prominent maritime salvage firm operating primarily on the Great Lakes. Based in Sarnia, Ontario, the company was founded by Captain Thomas Reid, a notable figure in Great Lakes maritime history. 

Throughout its operational years, Reid Wrecking Company was involved in numerous salvage operations, assisting vessels that encountered difficulties on the Great Lakes. One notable incident involved the steamer Mataafa, which ran aground near Duluth in 1905. The company’s crew worked diligently to salvage the vessel, showcasing their expertise in maritime recovery operations. 

In addition to salvage operations, the company also acquired vessels for its fleet. For instance, in 1916, they purchased the steamer Kongo, which was later renamed Overland. This acquisition expanded their capabilities in towing and salvage services across the Great Lakes. 

Captain Thomas Reid’s leadership was instrumental in the company’s success. His life and contributions to maritime salvage are detailed in the book “The Salvager: The Life of Captain Tom Reid on the Great Lakes,” which provides an in-depth look at his career and the operations of the Reid Wrecking Company. 

The Reid Wrecking Company’s legacy is a testament to the vital role of salvage operations in ensuring the safety and navigability of the Great Lakes, reflecting the challenges and triumphs of maritime enterprises during that era.

Vessels associated with

• Appomattox (Salvaged) was a wooden-hulled bulk freighter built in 1896 by renowned shipbuilder James Davidson in West Bay City, Michigan. At 320 feet long, she was one of the largest wooden ships ever constructed for Great Lakes service, reflecting the transitional period when wooden freighters were still competing with steel-hulled vessels for dominance in the shipping industry. Designed to carry bulk commodities such as coal, the APPOMATTOX was a significant player in the Great Lakes freight network during her operational years.