Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: BEN HUR (originally named M.C. UPPER)
• Type: Schooner-Barge (wood, wrecker)
• Location of Loss: Near Port Huron, St. Clair River, Michigan, Lake St. Clair
• Coordinates: Not specifically provided
• Date of Loss: November 8, 1890
• Dimensions: Length: 138 feet (42 meters) Beam: 26 feet (7.9 meters) Depth: 11 feet (3.4 meters)
• Gross Tonnage: 315 tons
• Net Tonnage: 298 tons

Vessel Type Description

The BEN HUR, originally the M.C. UPPER, was a wooden Schooner-Barge built in 1874 in Dunnville, Ontario. Designed for towing and salvage operations, the vessel later transitioned into a wrecker. With robust dimensions and rigging typical of Schooner-barges, the BEN HUR played a vital role in the salvage industry on the Great Lakes.

Construction and Early Years

The BEN HUR was constructed as the M.C. UPPER in 1874 in Dunnville, Ontario. Its purpose initially revolved around general cargo transport before being adapted for salvage operations. The vessel was renamed BEN HUR in 1889, reflecting a change in its operational focus.

Incident Overview

On November 8, 1890, the BEN HUR was engaged in the salvage of the sunken Schooner M.E. TREMBLE in the St. Clair River near Port Huron. During the operation, the vessel was struck by the Schooner-Barge SUPERIOR, which was under tow by the Steamer PASSAIC. The collision caused the BEN HUR to sink, its Hull coming to rest on top of the wreck of the TREMBLE. A Lighter scow used in the salvage operation also sank during the incident.

The BEN HUR was not carrying any cargo at the time of the accident, and fortunately, there were no casualties among the crew.

Aftermath

The wreck of the BEN HUR was dynamited and destroyed in 1891 to clear the obstruction. Legal proceedings followed, with Thomas A. Murphy, owner of the Murphy Wrecking Company and the BEN HUR, suing the PASSAIC and its tow for damages. The court ruled in favor of Murphy, awarding him compensation for the loss of the vessel.

Final Disposition

The BEN HUR, along with the wreck of the TREMBLE, was destroyed in 1891 through dynamiting operations conducted by the Murphy Wrecking Company. The incident marked the end of the BEN HUR’s service as a wrecker.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the wreck site, as the remains were destroyed in 1891 and no longer pose a navigational hazard.

Resources & Links

• • Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• • David Swayze Shipwreck File

Keywords #BEN HUR, #M.C. UPPER, #Schooner-Barge, #Wrecker, #Lake St. Clair Shipwreck, #St. Clair River, #Great Lakes Salvage, #Shipwreck Collision, #Murphy Wrecking Company, Legal Case

Analysis

The loss of the BEN HUR underscores the challenges and dangers inherent in salvage operations on the Great Lakes. Its dual role as a wrecker and Schooner-Barge illustrates the versatility required of such vessels in a dynamic maritime industry. The collision with the SUPERIOR highlights the risks of operating in congested waterways, even for experienced crews.

The legal aftermath and eventual dynamiting of the wreck emphasize the economic and navigational priorities of the era, ensuring safe passage for other vessels on Lake St. Clair. The BEN HUR’s story, though ultimately tragic, contributes to the rich Maritime History of the Great Lakes and the evolution of salvage practices in the region.