Identification & Site Information

•Name: Edward Buckley

•Other Names: None

•Vessel Type: Steam Barge, Wooden, 2-Mast

•Build Information: 1891, Manitowoc, Wisconsin, by H.B. & G.B. Burger

•Specifications:

•Length: 154.3 feet (47.0 meters)

•Beam: 31.7 feet (9.7 meters)

•Depth: 10.6 feet (3.2 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 414 tons

•Net Tonnage: 313 tons

•Date of Loss: September 1, 1929

•Place of Loss: North Channel, Lake Huron, southeast of Mink Island, near Manitoulin Island

•Coordinates: N45° 59.644’, W81° 58.759’

•Lake: Huron

•Depth: 110 feet (33.5 meters)

Vessel Type Description

The Edward Buckley was a robust wooden steam Barge featuring two masts, a single Deck, and a Screw Propulsion system powered by a for-and-aft compound engine. Designed primarily for the lumber trade, it could transport up to 450,000 feet of timber in a single trip. The vessel was constructed with durability in mind, ensuring it could withstand the rough conditions of the Great Lakes while navigating vital trade routes.

History

The Edward Buckley was launched in 1891 and quickly became an essential asset in the thriving lumber industry of the Great Lakes. Its original ownership belonged to Edward Buckley and partners of Manistee, Michigan. Over its operational lifespan, the vessel experienced several ownership changes and incidents that underscored the challenges of its trade.

Notable Events

•1897: Ran ashore on Ballard’s Reef in Lake Erie, requiring repairs.

•1922: Sold to Canadian interests and registered in Sarnia, Ontario.

•1925: Acquired by the Peninsula Tug and Towing Company, Wiarton, Ontario.

The Edward Buckley transported timber and other goods across the Great Lakes under various ownerships. Its role in connecting lumber operations to markets across the region made it a key player in the economic development of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Final Disposition

On September 1, 1929, the Edward Buckley caught fire and sank southeast of Mink Island in the North Channel of Lake Huron. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown. The vessel sank to the lakebed at a depth of 110 feet, ending its 38 years of service. Despite the disaster, the Edward Buckley’s legacy as a vital transport vessel lives on in historical records and underwater exploration.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the Edward Buckley lies at a depth of 110 feet (33.5 meters), making it a challenging yet rewarding site for experienced divers. The wooden structure, though deteriorated over time, retains significant features of its original form, offering a glimpse into the vessel’s design and functionality. The site is a popular destination for divers interested in the history of the Great Lakes and the lumber trade.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the wreck site. Divers should exercise caution due to the depth and potential hazards associated with submerged wreckage.

Resources & Links

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Comprehensive data on Great Lakes shipwrecks.

•Bowling Green State University: Historical Collections of the Great Lakes.

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: In-depth records on vessels like the Edward Buckley.

•Great Lakes Ships Database: Detailed information on the ship’s history and specifications.

Keywords

Edward Buckley, Steam Barge, Lumber Trade, North Channel, Lake Huron Shipwreck, Great Lakes History, Wooden Steam Barge, Manitoulin Island, Maritime Transportation

Conclusion

The Edward Buckley played a pivotal role in the Great Lakes’ lumber trade, demonstrating the adaptability and resilience of maritime transportation in a demanding industry. Its final resting place in Lake Huron serves as both a historical artifact and a diving attraction, preserving the memory of a vessel that contributed significantly to the economic development of the region. The Edward Buckley’s story is a testament to the industrious spirit of the Great Lakes and its enduring maritime legacy.