Identification & Site Information

Vessel Name: Portsmouth

Vessel Type: Propeller

Year Built: 1853

Built At: Buffalo, New York

Final Location: Northeast end of Middle Island, Lake Huron

Date of Loss: November 14, 1867

Cause of Loss: Ran aground in severe weather conditions

Gross Tonnage: 525 tons

Owner: Erie Railway Company

Value: $16,000

Depth: Not specified

Vessel Type Description

The Portsmouth was a steam-powered propeller vessel, a hallmark of mid-19th-century maritime innovation. With a tonnage of 525 tons, it was designed for the efficient transport of both freight and passengers across the Great Lakes. Propeller-driven ships like the Portsmouthwere instrumental in the region’s growing commerce, as they offered superior speed and reliability compared to sailing vessels. The Portsmouth played a pivotal role in the burgeoning ore transport industry, connecting Lake Superior’s mineral-rich ports with major hubs in the lower Great Lakes.

History

Launched in 1853 in Buffalo, New York, the Portsmouth was owned by the Erie Railway Company, a key player in mid-19th-century transportation. For 14 years, the vessel operated as a workhorse, transporting goods and ore between Great Lakes ports. Undergoing repairs in 1861, the ship was maintained in good condition, reflecting its importance in the Erie Railway Company’s fleet.

On November 14, 1867, while carrying a cargo of ore from Lake Superior, the Portsmouth encountered a powerful storm on Lake Huron. Battling severe weather, the ship was driven aground on the rocky shoals of Middle Island’s northeast end. Despite attempts to save the vessel, the unforgiving conditions made it impossible to free her. Stranded and exposed, the Hull became encrusted in ice as winter set in, sealing the ship’s fate.

By December 4, 1867, salvage efforts were Abandoned. The ship was stripped of valuable equipment and left to the elements. Salvage teams later managed to recover most of the cargo and machinery during the summer of 1868, but the Hull remained stranded, a poignant reminder of the hazards of Great Lakes navigation.

Final Disposition

The Portsmouth was declared a Total Loss after running aground on Middle Island. The harsh winter conditions and the vessel’s deteriorated state rendered further salvage efforts impractical. The Hull, visible for some time after the incident, eventually succumbed to decay and the elements.

Located By & Date

The wreck’s location was well-documented shortly after its grounding in November 1867. Its presence on the northeast end of Middle Island was a noted cautionary marker for mariners navigating the area, though exact modern GPS coordinates are not available.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the Portsmouth, as the wreck no longer poses a significant navigational hazard. However, its historical location near Middle Island serves as a reminder of the region’s challenging conditions for shipping.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database: Maritime History of the Great Lakes

•NOAA Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: NOAA Thunder Bay NMS

Conclusion

The wreck of the Portsmouth underscores the risks of Great Lakes navigation during the 19th century, particularly for ships tasked with heavy freight in unpredictable weather. Despite its robust design and a capable crew, the vessel was ultimately undone by the severe storm and the rocky shoals of Middle Island. Today, the story of the Portsmouth serves as a testament to the resilience of Great Lakes mariners and the enduring legacy of these waters as a vital but perilous artery of commerce.

Keywords

•Portsmouth propeller ship

•Lake Huron shipwreck

•Middle Island grounding

•Great Lakes maritime history

•Erie Railway Company vessel loss

GPS Coordinates & Additional Info

While exact GPS coordinates for the wreck of the Portsmouth are not available, it lies at the northeast end of Middle Island in Lake Huron. Researchers and maritime historians exploring the area should take note of its historical significance and exercise caution due to the rocky terrain.