Identification & Site Information

• Wreck Name: Detroit
• Type: Sidewheel Steamer
• Date of Incident: May 25, 1854
• Location: Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron
• Coordinates: Approx. 15 miles north of Point au Barques, in 30 fathoms (180 feet / 55 meters) of water
• Owner: Capt. E.B. Ward
• Value: $12,000 (not insured)

Vessel Type Description

The Detroit was a wooden Sidewheel Steamer, a vessel design that relied on large paddle wheels on either side for propulsion. These steamers were a common sight on the Great Lakes during the mid-19th century, often employed for passenger and cargo transport. The Detroit’s cargo capacity made her a valuable asset, as she could carry mixed goods such as hay and lumber, making her an essential vessel for regional trade.

History

The Detroit was chartered to the Sault Ste. Marie Canal Company at the time of the incident. She was partially loaded with hay and lumber and towing two large scows similarly loaded, headed for the Sault Ste. Marie area.

Collision with the NUCLEUS

•Time: Approximately 8:30 a.m., May 25, 1854

•Conditions: Dense fog in Saginaw Bay severely limited Visibility.

•Details: The collision between the Detroit and the Bark NUCLEUS was severe, causing catastrophic damage to the Detroit. The smoke pipe fell during the collision, crushing the wheelhouse and severely injuring the pilot and another person.

•Outcome:

•The Detroit sank rapidly, submerging in about 1.5 hours.

•Two crew members were severely injured, including one with a broken leg.

•Cargo and much of the onboard furniture were lost.

•Despite the loss of the Detroit, no fatalities were reported.

The collision was the eighth major maritime loss on the Great Lakes during the 1854 season, reflecting the high risks faced by vessels during this period.

Final Disposition

The Detroit sank in 180 feet (55 meters) of water, approximately 15 miles north of Point au Barques, in Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron. The wreck has not been located definitively in modern times, and it is presumed that the remains rest largely undisturbed on the lakebed.

Significance of the Incident

The sinking of the Detroit highlights the perils of Great Lakes navigation in the mid-19th century, including:

•Poor Visibility during foggy conditions.

•High maritime traffic on major trade routes like Saginaw Bay.

•Limited technological solutions to prevent or mitigate collisions.

The loss of the Detroit, valued at $12,000 and uninsured, was a significant financial blow to her owner, Capt. E.B. Ward, and underscored the economic vulnerability of marine operations during this era.

NOTMARs & Advisories

•No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with the Detroit wreck. However, its location near a well-navigated region of Saginaw Bay suggests potential interest for future exploration.

Resources & Links

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Documenting maritime losses in the Great Lakes.
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Historical accounts of vessels like the Detroit.
• Great Lakes Historical Society: Repository of regional maritime records.
• Saginaw Bay Maritime Archives: Local history resources related to navigation and shipwrecks.

Keywords

Detroit, NUCLEUS, Sidewheel Steamer, Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron Shipwreck, Point au Barques, Great Lakes Maritime History, 19th-Century Collisions, Uninsured Vessel Loss.

Conclusion

The Detroit’s tragic collision with the NUCLEUS in Saginaw Bay is emblematic of the challenges faced by 19th-century vessels on the Great Lakes. Dense fog, high traffic, and limited navigational aids contributed to frequent and often devastating incidents. The loss of the Detroit and her cargo underscores the harsh realities of maritime commerce during this period, while her story remains a poignant reminder of the perils of Great Lakes navigation.

3D Model – Detroit

Sidewheel Steamer Detroit Shipwreck by BeckyKaganSchott on Sketchfab