Identification & Site Information

• Name, Former Names: A. M. P.
• Type: Gas Screw passenger vessel.
• Official Number: 208599.
• Dimensions: Length: 56 feet (17.1 m). Width: 13 feet (4 m). Depth: 7 feet (2.1 m).
• Tonnage: Gross: 33 tons. Net: 16 tons.
• Year Built: 1911.
• Builder: Detroit, Michigan.
• Final Voyage: Date: August 14, 1912.
• Location: Dennis Island, Detroit River.
• Final Disposition: Destroyed by fire; a Total Loss.
• Casualties: None; both individuals aboard survived.

Vessel Type

The A. M. P. was a Gas Screw passenger vessel, a compact and maneuverable boat powered by an internal combustion engine. This propulsion system made it economical and suitable for operations in smaller waterways like the Detroit River.

Description

With a Gross Tonnage of 33 and a Net Tonnage of 16, the A. M. P. was designed to efficiently transport passengers and light cargo within inland and coastal waters. Its compact size allowed for easy navigation in narrow or congested waterways, making it a practical choice for short-range transportation.

History

Built in Detroit in 1911, the A. M. P. represents the era’s transition to motorized vessels for inland transportation. Gas Screw propulsion provided a modern alternative to traditional steam-powered or sail-driven boats, emphasizing efficiency and simplicity for small-scale operations.

The vessel likely served local transportation needs on the Detroit River and surrounding areas. While specific operational details remain unknown, its modest size suggests a focus on passenger services or light cargo hauling.

Final Voyage and Loss

On August 14, 1912, the A. M. P. caught fire near Dennis Island on the Detroit River. Despite efforts to control the situation, the fire completely destroyed the vessel. Fortunately, the two people aboard survived the incident unharmed. The cause of the fire and details about its cargo or passenger list remain unspecified in historical records.

Legacy

The A. M. P.’s loss underscores the risks associated with early gasoline-powered vessels. Fire was a significant hazard, especially in an era when safety protocols and firefighting equipment were less advanced. Despite its tragic end, the vessel serves as a historical example of early 20th-century maritime innovation on the Great Lakes.

Resources & Links

• David Swayze Shipwreck File

Conclusion

The A. M. P., though short-lived, illustrates the evolution of small Passenger Vessels during a transformative period in maritime history. Its story is a reminder of the challenges faced by early motorized boats and their operators, contributing to the broader narrative of Great Lakes navigation.