Shipwreck Report: Alberta

Name: Alberta

Type: Wooden Propeller Tug

Year Built: 1907

Built At: Rossport, Ontario, Canada

Official Number: C122177

Vessel Details

•Length: 30 feet (9.1 meters)

•Beam: 10 feet (3 meters)

•Depth: 4 feet (1.2 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 7 tons

•Net Tonnage: 5 tons

•Purpose: Towing operations on Lake Superior

•Home Port: Port Arthur, Ontario

History

The Alberta was built in 1907 in Rossport, Ontario, as a small but sturdy wooden propeller Tug designed for towing operations. Registered out of Port Arthur, the Tug primarily served the bustling maritime industry along Lake Superior’s northern shores, which included towing and transporting small cargoes.

On November 22, 1917, the Alberta met its end during a storm in Thunder Bay, Ontario, on Lake Superior. At the time of its loss, the vessel was carrying 4-5 tons of herring. The sudden storm overwhelmed the Tug, causing it to founder. Despite the loss of the vessel, all crew members survived, and no casualties were reported.

Final Disposition

The Alberta sank during the storm in Thunder Bay, Lake Superior, on November 22, 1917. The incident highlights the unpredictable and treacherous weather conditions often faced by vessels on Lake Superior, particularly during late fall when storms are at their peak.

Current Condition & Accessibility

No specific details about the wreck’s location or condition are available. The vessel is presumed to have remained in Thunder Bay’s waters, but its exact resting place has not been identified or marked as a dive site.

Resources & Links

•David Swayze Shipwreck File

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes

Keywords

Alberta, propeller Tug, Lake Superior, Thunder Bay, Port Arthur, towing operations, shipwreck, Great Lakes, herring cargo, 1917 storm

Analysis

The Alberta represents the workhorse vessels that played a vital role in supporting the maritime economy of Lake Superior in the early 20th century. Despite its small size, the Tug was integral to local industries, particularly for cargo and towing operations. The storm that claimed the Alberta’s life is a testament to the harsh and often unpredictable conditions of the Great Lakes, which have challenged vessels of all sizes for centuries. The absence of casualties during the incident is a fortunate outcome, making this shipwreck a story of resilience amidst adversity.