IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
• Vessel Name: City of Bangor
• Vessel Type: Propeller Steamship
• Year Built: 1896
• Builder: F.W. Wheeler, West Bay City, Michigan
• Dimensions:
• Length: 133.8 meters (438 feet; later extended to 135.8 meters/445.5 feet)
• Beam: 13.7 meters (45 feet)
• Depth: 8.2 meters (27 feet)
• Gross Tonnage: 4,202 tons
• Net Tonnage: 3,058 tons
• Hull Material: Steel
• Wreck Location: Near Washburn, Wisconsin, Lake Superior
• Depth: Wreck came ashore; vessel dismantled for scrap
• Current Condition: Fully dismantled during World War II scrap drives
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION
The City of Bangor was a steel-hulled propeller Steamship, a design characteristic of late 19th-century and early 20th-century bulk freighters operating on the Great Lakes. These vessels were built to carry large quantities of cargo, including grain, iron ore, coal, and manufactured goods. The City of Bangor was later adapted for specialized freight, including carrying automobiles, which reflected the evolving demands of Great Lakes commerce.
HISTORY
Construction and Early Years
The City of Bangor was constructed in 1896 by F.W. Wheeler in West Bay City, Michigan. Measuring 438 feet in length, the vessel was designed for bulk freight transportation on the Great Lakes. In 1904, it underwent significant modifications, including lengthening to 445.5 feet, enhancing its capacity and efficiency.
Over the years, the City of Bangor served multiple owners and endured several notable incidents:
• 1897: Struck a boulder in the Canadian canal below Lock at the Soo Locks and sank but was later lightered and freed.
• 1898: Ran aground on the Washington Street tunnel in Chicago, requiring four tugs to release it.
Despite these challenges, the vessel continued to play an essential role in transporting goods across the Great Lakes, adapting to the evolving demands of the region’s industrial economy.
Final Voyage and Wreck
On November 30, 1926, the City of Bangor embarked on what would become its final voyage. While navigating Lake Superior near Washburn, Wisconsin, the vessel carried a Deck cargo of 230 automobiles, alongside its standard freight. During a severe storm, the ship was driven sideways onto a beach by strong winds, resulting in its wreck.
The crew managed to escape using small boats, though reports suggest that one or two lives may have been lost in the incident. Salvage operations were later conducted to recover the automobiles, many of which were lost overboard, while others were driven ashore using an ice ramp. The salvaged vehicles were eventually refurbished in Detroit, finding new life despite the wreck.
FINAL DISPOSITION
The wreck of the City of Bangor remained partially visible for years, serving as a poignant reminder of its tragic end. During World War II, the wreck was dismantled in place for scrap, contributing to the war effort. By the mid-20th century, no significant remains of the vessel were left at the site.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES
There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) concerning the wreck of the City of Bangor, as the vessel was dismantled and removed. Mariners should always exercise caution when navigating the Washburn, Wisconsin area due to general underwater hazards and historical wreck sites.
LOCATED BY & DATE
The City of Bangor came ashore during its wreck in 1926. While the site was well-documented at the time, no modern expeditions have been conducted to locate potential remnants since the vessel was scrapped.
External links
Bowling Green State University
Maritime History of the Great Lakes
The City of Bangor epitomized the Great Lakes’ industrial transformation, evolving from a bulk freighter to a vessel carrying automobiles—an emerging symbol of 20th-century industry. Its loss during a storm in 1926 highlights the perils of Great Lakes navigation and the resilience of sailors who braved these challenging waters.
While the wreck was dismantled and removed, the story of the City of Bangor remains a significant chapter in maritime history. From its construction in 1896 to its final voyage and eventual scrapping, the ship’s journey mirrors the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of Great Lakes commerce and navigation.
Keywords: City of Bangor, Lake Superior, Shipwreck, Washburn Wisconsin, Great Lakes Freighter, Automobile Cargo, Maritime History, World War II Scrap Drive, Soo Locks
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