SHIPWRECK REPORT: T.M. Bradley

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Name: T.M. Bradley

• Type: Propeller Tug

• Official Number: 145172

• Year Built: 1878

• Builder: Bates, Chicago, Illinois

• Weight: 12 tons

• Owner: Smith Brothers, Cheboygan, Michigan

• Location of Loss: Near the mouth of the Tahquamenon River, Lake Superior

• Date of Incident: September 4, 1884

VESSEL DESCRIPTION

The T.M. Bradley was a small propeller-driven Tugboat built for service on the Great Lakes. Weighing 12 tons, it was modestly sized, suitable for operations such as dredging support and towing. The vessel’s base of operations was Cheboygan, Michigan, where it served under the ownership of the Smith Brothers.

HISTORY

The T.M. Bradley was built in 1878 and operated primarily in dredging and towing assignments. It was en route to a dredging operation on September 4, 1884, when it encountered severe weather on Lake Superior.

FINAL INCIDENT

• Cause of Loss:

The Tug developed a leak during heavy weather. As the situation worsened, its fires were extinguished, rendering the vessel powerless. To save the crew, the T.M. Bradley was intentionally run ashore near the mouth of the Tahquamenon River.

• Casualties: None. All six crew members safely reached shore.

• Cargo: The vessel was not carrying any cargo at the time of its loss.

• Damage & Loss:

The Hull was deemed unsalvageable and declared a Total Loss. The estimated value of the Hull was $4,000, with no insurance coverage.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

• Condition:

The T.M. Bradley was a Total Loss, and its remains are presumed to have deteriorated or been buried in the sands near the mouth of the Tahquamenon River.

• Accessibility:

No confirmed wreckage is accessible for diving or exploration.

SIGNIFICANCE

The loss of the T.M. Bradley highlights the challenges faced by small working vessels on the Great Lakes, particularly when navigating in adverse weather conditions. Its story is a testament to the bravery and resourcefulness of its crew, who ensured their survival despite the vessel’s demise.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Explore Records

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Comprehensive details on Great Lakes shipwrecks, including the T.M. Bradley.

KEYWORDS

T.M. Bradley, Lake Superior shipwreck, propeller Tug, Tahquamenon River, 1884 maritime disaster, Great Lakes vessel loss

CONCLUSION

The T.M. Bradley is a poignant reminder of the perils of Great Lakes navigation in the late 19th century. Although the vessel was lost, the safe evacuation of its crew serves as a testament to the skill and determination of mariners who worked these challenging waters. Its story contributes to the rich tapestry of Great Lakes maritime history.