LIZZIE MADDEN (formerly CHENANGO)

• Type: Steam-Powered Bulk Freighter (originally a Schooner-Barge)
• Lengths: Approx. 140 ft (43 m)
• Depths: Wreck located near Little Charity Island, Saginaw Bay, Michigan
• Location: Point Lookout, Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron
• IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
• • Original Name: CHENANGO
• • Later Name: LIZZIE MADDEN
• • Construction:
• • Builder: Lafrinier, Cleveland, Ohio
• • Year Built: 1862
• • Original Design: Two-Deck Schooner-Barge
• • Modifications:
• • 1887: Rebuilt by James Davidson, Bay City, Michigan
• • Conversion to a steam Barge with removal of the second Deck
• • Installation of a steeple compound engine
• • Ownership History:
• • Originally owned by unnamed parties
• • 1887: Acquired and Rebuilt by James Davidson
• • 1891: Purchased by Thomas F. Madden and partners, renamed LIZZIE MADDEN

HISTORY

CHENANGO (1862–1891):

The CHENANGO began as a robust two-Deck Schooner-Barge serving maritime trade across the Great Lakes. In 1887, it underwent a major transformation under James Davidson’s ownership, tailored for the lumber trade. This marked the start of its evolution into a steambarge.

LIZZIE MADDEN (1891–1907):

With its new name and identity, the LIZZIE MADDEN became a significant player in the Great Lakes shipping industry, transporting cargo such as lumber, grain, and other goods. The vessel faced numerous challenges throughout its career:

• 1890 Fire Incident:

• En route from Detroit to Buffalo with a wheat cargo, a fire broke out near the boiler.

• The crew’s efforts allowed the ship to be towed to Erie, Pennsylvania, for repairs.

• After two months, the vessel was salvaged in Buffalo and returned to service.

• Other Challenges:

• Ran aground on Strawberry Island in the Niagara River.

• Played a role in the salvage of the Steamer Siberia.

• Endured storms and changing ownerships, adapting to various operational needs.

Final Voyage (1907):

• Date: November 22, 1907

• Route: Departed from Bay City, Michigan, bound for Little Current, Ontario, with a cargo of lumber.

• Incident:

• A fire broke out near Point Lookout in Saginaw Bay.

• The crew Abandoned ship, making a harrowing escape.

• The burning vessel drifted to Little Charity Island, where it ultimately sank and was declared a Total Loss.

FINAL DISPOSITION

• Current Condition: Wreck remains scattered near Little Charity Island in Saginaw Bay.

• Legacy: The ship’s dramatic career and final resting place make it a notable piece of Great Lakes maritime history.

SIGNIFICANCE

The transformation from CHENANGO to LIZZIE MADDEN exemplifies the ingenuity and resilience of 19th and early 20th-century shipbuilders and mariners. Despite numerous challenges, the vessel contributed significantly to Great Lakes trade, adapting to changing demands and circumstances. Its fiery demise underscores the inherent risks of maritime operations during this era.

REFERENCES & LINKS

• Madden Moments

• Great Lakes Ships

• History of the Great Lakes Vol. 1

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• David Swayze Shipwreck File

This structured report captures the Lizzie Madden’s evolution and contributions to Great Lakes history, preserving its legacy for future generations.