Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: Barge 104 (No alternate names)

• Type: Steel Whaleback Barge (Unrigged)

• Built: 1890 by A. MacDougall, American Steel Barge Co., Superior, Wisconsin

• Official Number: 53257

• Dimensions:

• Length: 276 feet (84 meters)

• Beam: 36 feet (11 meters)

• Depth: 19 feet (5.8 meters)

• Gross Tonnage: 1295.44 tons

• Net Tonnage: 1230.69 tons

• Final Location: Cleveland Harbor, Lake Erie

• Final Incident Date: November 10, 1898

Vessel Type Description

Barge 104 was a steel Whaleback Barge, designed by Alexander McDougall and part of the innovative fleet of “Whaleback” vessels built for bulk freight transport. The characteristic rounded Hull of Whaleback vessels minimized resistance, allowing for better handling in rough seas. These vessels were integral to the industrial boom of the late 19th century, ferrying iron ore, coal, and other bulk goods across the Great Lakes. As an unrigged Barge, Barge 104 relied on tugboats or steamers like the ROCKEFELLER for towing between ports.

History

Construction and Purpose

Barge 104 was launched in 1890, part of the growing fleet of Whaleback barges built to support the expanding freight demands of the Great Lakes region. Its steel construction and innovative design made it well-suited for carrying heavy cargo across the sometimes-treacherous waters of the Great Lakes.

Final Voyage and Incident

On November 10, 1898, Barge 104 awaited towing by the Steamer ROCKEFELLER, preparing to depart Cleveland for Duluth. At the time, it was under tow by the Tug ALVA B when a severe storm hit Lake Erie. The Barge broke free of its Towline and collided with Cleveland’s Breakwater. The collision caused catastrophic damage, and the Barge sank rapidly.

Despite the adverse weather conditions, the crew of Barge 104 was saved by the U.S. Lifesaving Service, marking a rare survival in a significant Great Lakes shipwreck. Fortunately, no lives were lost.

Recovery and Legacy

Initially, fragments of the vessel were believed to be all that remained of Barge 104. It was later discovered that the wreck had drifted underwater approximately 500 feet from the collision site. This incident marked the first Total Loss of a Whaleback vessel in Great Lakes history, a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by these unique ships.

Final Disposition

Barge 104 was declared a Total Loss after sinking in Cleveland Harbor. While remnants of the vessel were initially recovered, most of the wreckage remained submerged and was later documented to have drifted underwater. The wreck remains a part of Cleveland Harbor’s maritime legacy.

NOTMARs & Advisories

• Status: No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories are issued for the wreck of Barge 104.

• Hazards: The site’s depth and exact condition may pose challenges for divers or salvage efforts, though it is not considered a navigational hazard today.

Located By & Date

• Location: Cleveland Harbor, Lake Erie

• Date of Discovery: The exact discovery of the remaining wreckage is not well-documented but was identified after the initial incident in 1898.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of Barge 104 is believed to be in poor condition, with much of its structure either destroyed or scattered. Its exact location may remain difficult to pinpoint due to its drift following the sinking. The site has not been extensively explored or surveyed in recent history.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• David Swayze Shipwreck File

• Great Lakes Ships Database

Conclusion

The tragic loss of Barge 104 underscores the dangers of navigating the Great Lakes, especially during the unpredictable storm seasons. As the first Whaleback vessel to meet a Total Loss on the Great Lakes, its story contributes to the legacy of these innovative vessels and the maritime history of Cleveland Harbor. Though its physical remains lie scattered and deteriorated, the memory of Barge 104 continues to evoke the resilience of Great Lakes mariners and the challenges they faced.

Keywords

#Barge104 #WhalebackVessel #ClevelandHarbor #LakeErie #GreatLakesShipwreck #MaritimeHistory #USLifesavingService #1898Storm