Identification & Site Information

• Other Names: SS RUMMAGE, CHARLIE O. SMITH, BETTY L.

• Type: Steam Screw Tug (Towboat)

• Built: 1863, Cleveland, Ohio

• Official Number: 22380

• Dimensions (Original):

• Length: 73.3 feet (22.3 meters)

• Beam: 16.0 feet (4.9 meters)

• Depth: 8.3 feet (2.5 meters)

• Tonnage (Original):

• Gross: 56.69 tons

• Net: 30.34 tons

• Final Dimensions (Post-1892 Rebuild):

• Length: 74.0 feet (22.6 meters)

• Beam: 17.0 feet (5.2 meters)

• Depth: 8.3 feet (2.5 meters)

• Tonnage (Post-Rebuild):

• Gross: 63.9 tons

• Net: 39.12 tons

• Final Location: Wallaceburg, Ontario, Saint Clair River

• Date of Loss: November 6, 1929

Vessel Type Description

The BETTY L. was originally constructed as a steam screw Tug, designed for towing and assisting larger vessels. Throughout its history, the Tug underwent multiple modifications and name changes, reflecting its evolving role in Great Lakes shipping. Its Rebuild in 1892 added advanced features like a new boiler and steeple compound engine, increasing its efficiency and durability.

History

The vessel began its career in 1863 as the SS RUMMAGE, owned by Williams & Rumage of Buffalo, New York. In 1864, it was acquired by R. Anderson of Cleveland, Ohio. Its dimensions were updated during a remeasurement in 1865, though its primary role as a Tug remained unchanged.

Key Events:

• 1892: Renamed CHARLIE O. SMITH and significantly Rebuilt at Wheeler & Company in Bay City, Michigan.

• January 1893: Renamed BETTY L., continuing its service as a Tug with enhanced capabilities.

• 1929: Renamed BETTY L. for the final time and operated until its tragic demise later that year.

The BETTY L. met its end on November 6, 1929, when it burned at the dock in Wallaceburg, Ontario. Though the fire destroyed the vessel, no lives were lost.

Final Disposition

The BETTY L. was completely destroyed by fire in 1929. The incident marked the end of its service on the Great Lakes, concluding a 66-year career characterized by resilience and adaptation.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The BETTY L. burned at the dock, leaving no accessible wreckage. The location, Wallaceburg, Ontario, on the Saint Clair River, remains a historical point of interest for Great Lakes maritime enthusiasts.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive vessel history and records.

• Great Lakes Ships: Database of historical ships and shipwrecks.

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Detailed accounts of Great Lakes maritime incidents.

• Wheeler & Company: Historical records of shipbuilders in Bay City, Michigan.

Keywords

BETTY L., SS RUMMAGE, CHARLIE O. SMITH, Steam Screw Tug, Great Lakes Tugboat, Saint Clair River, Wallaceburg Ontario, 1929 Fire, Great Lakes Maritime History.

Conclusion

The BETTY L. (formerly known as the SS RUMMAGE and CHARLIE O. SMITH) exemplifies the evolution of Great Lakes vessels through multiple rebuilds and adaptations. Its long career and tragic end in Wallaceburg highlight the dynamic history of tugboats in the region, serving as a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of those who navigated and worked on the Great Lakes.