MAGGIE CARROLL

Type: Propeller Steam Tug

Dimensions:

• • Length: 49 ft (14.9 m)
• • Beam: 14 ft (4.3 m)
• • Depth: 4 ft (1.2 m)

Tonnage:

• • Gross Tonnage: 16 tons
• • Net Tonnage: 9 tons

Location: Duluth-Superior Harbor, Superior, Wisconsin, Lake Superior

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• • Name: Maggie Carroll
• • Construction:
• • Builder: Matthew Carroll, Duluth, Minnesota
• • Year Built: 1883
• • Material: Wooden Hull
• • Design: Originally enrolled as a two-mast Schooner; converted into a screw Tug in 1884.
• • Primary Use: Excursion and Ferry services in Duluth, Ashland, and Bayfield.

HISTORY

Construction and Early Use (1883–1893):

The Maggie Carroll was commissioned by Matthew Carroll and initially enrolled as a two-mast Schooner. In 1884, it underwent a Conversion to a screw-propelled Tugboat, adapting to the growing demand for reliable transportation and Ferry services on Lake Superior. The vessel became a familiar sight in the Duluth-Superior area and along the shores of Ashland and Bayfield.

Final Incident (September 28, 1893):

• Location: Docked at the lighthouse in Superior, Wisconsin.

• Cause: A fire broke out onboard, rapidly engulfing the vessel.

• Outcome:

• Despite firefighting efforts, the flames consumed the vessel to the waterline.

• The Tug ultimately sank in the harbor.

• No casualties were reported, providing a small solace in an otherwise devastating event.

FINAL DISPOSITION

• Condition: Burned to the waterline and sunk at the dock.

• Fate: The wreck was not salvaged and remains at the site in the Duluth-Superior harbor.

SIGNIFICANCE

The Maggie Carroll is a poignant example of the perils faced by small vessels navigating the Great Lakes in the late 19th century. Fires onboard were a constant threat, especially for wooden vessels with steam-powered machinery. The story of the Maggie Carroll serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in Great Lakes navigation and the challenges faced by those who operated in these waters.

REFERENCES & LINKS

• David Swayze Shipwreck File

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• Great Lakes Ships

This structured account ensures a comprehensive documentation of the Maggie Carroll’s history and legacy while reflecting on its tragic loss.