Identification & Site Information

• Original Name: T.D. DOLE
• Other Names: J.C. CLARK, J.C. CLARKE, JAMES CLARK
• Type: Propeller Wood Package Ferry
• Official Number: C 11866 (Canadian Registry)
• Year Built: 1865
• Builder: D.M. Dole, Marine City, Michigan
• Dimensions: Not specified in historical records
• Material: Wooden Hull
• Last Known Location: Black River, Port Huron, Michigan
• Date of Final Incident: May 13, 1905

Vessel Type Description

The vessel, originally named T.D. DOLE, was a wooden propeller-driven Ferry designed to carry packaged cargo and passengers across the Great Lakes. The ship exemplified mid-19th-century engineering and craftsmanship, with a sturdy wooden Hull built to endure the challenges of the lakes’ unpredictable conditions. Over its operational life, the vessel adapted to various roles and underwent several ownership and name changes, reflecting its utility in regional trade and transportation.

History

Construction and Early Service. The T.D. DOLE was launched in 1865 in Marine City, Michigan. It initially served as a package Ferry, facilitating the movement of goods and passengers in the bustling maritime routes of the Great Lakes. The vessel’s original owner, D.M. Dole, envisioned it as a robust and versatile addition to the growing fleet of ferries servicing the region.

Transition to Canadian Ownership. In 1871, the vessel was sold to Canadian owners and renamed J.C. CLARK. It played a pivotal role in the Port Huron-Sarnia Ferry trade, connecting communities across the U.S.-Canada border. Over time, ownership transferred between several parties, including T. Bury of Sombra, W.B. Clark of Sarnia, and finally, the Sarnia Transportation Co. in 1895.

Major Incidents

• Fire in Erie, PA (1870): While still operating as T.D. DOLE, the vessel nearly succumbed to a fire in Erie, Pennsylvania. Despite the damage, the ship was salvaged and returned to service.
• Capsize Below Sarnia (1878): After transitioning to Canadian ownership, the vessel capsized near Sarnia, Ontario. Details of this incident are sparse, but the ship was refloated and repaired, continuing its service.
• On May 13, 1905, the J.C. CLARK met its tragic end. While docked at the Black River in Port Huron, Michigan, a devastating fire broke out, consuming the ship at the Ferry dock. The exact cause of the fire is unclear, and the vessel was declared a Total Loss. This incident marked the end of the ship’s storied career.

Final Disposition

• Date of Loss: May 13, 1905
• Cause of Loss: Fire at dock
• Location: Black River, Port Huron, Michigan
• Fate: Destroyed beyond repair

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Link to relevant records
• Great Lakes Ships Database: Comprehensive database of historical vessels in the Great Lakes.
• Sarnia Heritage Archives: Records of regional maritime activity and vessel ownership.
• Library and Archives Canada: Repository of Canadian ship registries and documents.

Tags

#TDDole #JCClark #GreatLakesShipwrecks #PortHuronHistory #WoodenFerry #19thCenturyShipping #SarniaTransportation #GreatLakesMaritimeHeritage

Analysis

The J.C. CLARK, once the T.D. DOLE, epitomes the dynamic life cycle of vessels during the 19th century. Transitioning through multiple names and owners, the ship bore witness to the evolution of maritime trade and transportation in the Great Lakes region. Despite its resilience in overcoming incidents like fire and capsizing, the vessel ultimately succumbed to a dockside blaze, ending a four-decade legacy. The story of the J.C. CLARK reflects not only the technological and economic aspirations of its era but also the inherent risks faced by those who depended on the Great Lakes for livelihood and connection.