Identification & Site Information
• Vessel Name, Former Name: Roswell P. Flower (later renamed Agnes W.).
• Type: Bulk Freighter.
• Dimensions:
• Length: 264 feet (80.5 m).
• Beam: 38.1 feet (11.6 m).
• Depth: 17.7 feet (5.4 m).
• Depth of Wreck: 15 feet (5 meters).
• Location: Canada Point, Drummond Island, Lake Huron (45°55.453’N, 83°42.501’W).
• Date Built: 1887.
• Builder: Wolf & Davidson, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
• Gross Tonnage: 1,593.40 tons.
• Net Tonnage: 1,165.48 tons.
• Final Voyage:
• Date: July 3, 1918.
• Cargo: Grain.
• Final Disposition: Stranded and destroyed in a storm.
Vessel Type Description
The Roswell P. Flower was a significant bulk freighter of its time, designed for transporting heavy cargo such as grain. With its wooden Hull, reinforced bow, single Deck, and four masts, the ship represented cutting-edge design for Great Lakes shipping in the late 19th century. Powered by a compound engine and Screw Propulsion, the vessel was both versatile and powerful, capable of towing other barges while managing large loads.
History
Construction and Early Years
Built in 1887, the Roswell P. Flower was commissioned by the Milwaukee Steamship Co. It quickly became a reliable workhorse for bulk cargo transport on the Great Lakes. Its strength and versatility were evident in its ability to tow barges such as the Donaldson and C.P. Grover.
Incidents and Salvage
• April 21, 1887: Grounded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, shortly after entering service.
• July 14, 1890: Grounded near Cedar Point shoal in Lake Erie.
• 1892: Suffered a significant wreck after striking a reef near Waugoschance Point in the western Straits of Mackinac but was salvaged and returned to service.
Name Change and Continued Service
In 1915, the vessel was renamed Agnes W. under the ownership of John D. Wanvig. Later, it was acquired by D.W. Stocking of Duluth, Minnesota, and continued its role in bulk cargo transportation.
Final Disposition
The Roswell P. Flower’s career ended tragically on July 3, 1918. Attempting to enter the St. Mary’s River amidst a storm, the freighter stranded at Canada Point, near Drummond Island, Lake Huron. Despite salvage efforts, the vessel was broken apart by relentless storm conditions. The entire cargo of grain was lost, along with the ship, marking a devastating conclusion to its service life.
NOTMARs & Advisories
While no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are directly associated with the wreck, caution is advised when navigating or diving near the site:
• Shallow Depth: The wreck lies in just 15 feet of water, making it accessible but potentially hazardous for boat traffic.
• Currents: Strong currents can occur in the area, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
Located By & Date
The wreck is well-documented and accessible to divers. Its shallow depth near Canada Point, Drummond Island, provides an opportunity to explore a piece of Great Lakes maritime history.
Resources & Links
• Great Lakes Maritime History
• Bowling Green State University Vessel Database
Conclusion
The Roswell P. Flower (Agnes W.) played a vital role in Great Lakes commerce, showcasing the ingenuity and resilience of 19th-century freighter design. Its loss in 1918 highlights the challenges faced by vessels navigating the volatile waters of the Great Lakes. Today, its wreck serves as an accessible dive site and a tangible reminder of the region’s rich maritime heritage.
Keywords
• Great Lakes
• Shipwreck
• Bulk Freighter
• Roswell P. Flower
• Agnes W.
• Maritime History
• Shipwreck Diving
• Great Lakes Maritime Heritage
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