Wreck Report: Steambarge MARY JARECKI

Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: MARY JARECKI

• Type: Steambarge

• Year Built: 1871

• Location of Loss: Point Sauble, Lake Superior

• Date of Loss: July 1883

• Dimensions & Tonnage:

• Gross Tonnage: 502 tons

• Age: 12 years at the time of loss

• Value at Time of Loss: $28,000

Vessel Type Description

The MARY JARECKI was a wooden steambarge, a robust vessel designed primarily for hauling bulk cargo such as timber, ore, or grain across the Great Lakes. These vessels were vital during the late 19th century, supporting the booming industries surrounding the lakes. The MARY JARECKI exemplified this era, serving as a key transport vessel for goods across Lake Superior and beyond.

History

The MARY JARECKI faced her tragic demise in July 1883 while navigating Point Sauble on Lake Superior. The vessel encountered significant structural failure, described as being “raised amidships,” indicating a severe break or damage to the Hull. Efforts to pump out water and stabilize the steambarge failed as the boiler shifted, worsening the situation.

The vessel was Abandoned by the crew, who safely made it to Sault Ste. Marie. Salvage efforts were led by S.A. Murphy, who successfully recovered the steambarge’s machinery, including its boiler and additional valuable components. However, much of the vessel and its cargo were lost, leaving only the outfit (equipment and tools) salvageable.

Final Disposition

The MARY JARECKI was declared a Total Loss. While parts of the machinery were recovered, the vessel was deemed irreparable and Abandoned. It remains a symbol of the dangers of shipping on the Great Lakes during the 19th century, particularly on Lake Superior, known for its unpredictable weather and treacherous waters.

Current Condition

The wreck of the MARY JARECKI is presumed to be heavily deteriorated or buried in the sediment at Point Sauble, Lake Superior. There is no detailed documentation or recent exploration of the site, making its exact condition uncertain.

Significance

The loss of the MARY JARECKI highlights the vulnerabilities of wooden steambarges in the face of Lake Superior’s harsh environment. Its story reflects the challenges faced by mariners navigating the vast and often perilous waters of the Great Lakes.

Resources & References

• J.W. Hall Great Lakes Marine Scrapbook, July 1883

• Marine Record, July 12, August 30, September 27, December 27, 1883

• Lost Tonnage on the Lakes, Marine Record, 1883

• Merchant Vessel List, U.S., 1871

Tags

• MARY JARECKI

• Lake Superior Shipwreck

• 19th-Century Steambarge

• Great Lakes Maritime History

• Point Sauble Wrecks

Conclusion

The MARY JARECKI‘s loss at Point Sauble in 1883 is a stark reminder of the risks and challenges of Great Lakes shipping during the 19th century. While her machinery was salvaged, the vessel itself was Abandoned, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and the perils faced by steambarges of the era. The story of the MARY JARECKI remains an integral part of Lake Superior’s maritime history, preserving the memory of a vessel that once played a vital role in the region’s industrial growth.