Identification & Site Information

• Original Name: Maria Love

• Final Name: Clematis

• Type: Tugboat (initially), later converted to a Schooner-Barge

• Built: 1863 by I. Lafrinier in Cleveland, Ohio

• Official Number: 5396

• Tonnage: 179 tons

• Final Voyage: May 21, 1883, Lake Huron

• Location of Wreck: Near the head of the St. Clair River, Lake Huron

Vessel Type Description

The Clematis, originally launched as Maria Love, was initially built as a Tugboat in 1863, designed to tow other vessels and provide logistical support on the Great Lakes. In 1864, it was renamed Clematis and went through several transformations throughout its life. After serving as a Tug, the vessel was converted into a Barge in 1881, adapted to carry cargo such as lumber across the Great Lakes. These modifications reflected the flexibility of Great Lakes vessels, which were often repurposed to meet changing economic demands.

History

The Clematis was built by I. Lafrinier in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1863 and began her service as a Tugboat named Maria Love. In 1864, she was renamed Clematis and gained further renown after being purchased by the U.S. Navy during the Civil War. Following her naval service, Clematis returned to the Great Lakes, where she operated as a Tug until she was converted into a Barge in 1881 under the ownership of Charles Chamberlain in Detroit. This Conversion allowed her to carry significant cargo, particularly lumber, which was in high demand during the era.

On May 21, 1883, while transporting a load of lumber across Lake Huron, Clematis encountered a severe storm. The fierce winds and waves proved overwhelming for the vessel, ultimately causing her to split into two parts and leaving her stranded and damaged beyond repair. The crew managed to escape in the Yawl boat and reached shore safely, with assistance from the Tug Champion, which arrived at the scene as the Clematis was breaking apart.

Despite the crew’s safe escape, the Clematis herself was lost. The Stern section later washed ashore near the head of the St. Clair River, a visible reminder of the vessel’s tragic end. This incident highlighted the unpredictable and often dangerous conditions of Great Lakes navigation, where even the most resilient vessels could fall victim to sudden storms.

Final Disposition

The Clematis was torn apart by a storm on May 21, 1883, in Lake Huron. The vessel disintegrated before salvage efforts could be undertaken, with parts of her wreckage eventually washing ashore near the St. Clair River. The loss of Clematis marked the end of a vessel that had undergone numerous roles and transformations over two decades of service.

Located By & Date

• Location: Near the head of the St. Clair River, Lake Huron

• Date of Sinking: May 21, 1883

Notmar & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories specific to the Clematis wreck site. The wreckage was removed from navigational areas over time.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: maritimehistoryofthegreatlakes.ca

• Great Lakes Shipwreck Research Foundation: Resources on Barge and Tugboat wrecks on the Great Lakes

• U.S. Navy Archives: Records of Civil War-era vessel purchases and deployments

Additional Notes

The story of the Clematis serves as a vivid reminder of the perils of Great Lakes shipping. The vessel’s history of transformation—from a Tug to a Barge—illustrates the adaptability of lake vessels during the 19th century, as well as the constant demand for versatile maritime assets. Her end in a fierce storm underscores the volatile weather conditions that have claimed countless vessels on the Great Lakes.

Conclusion

The Clematis embodied the multifaceted nature of Great Lakes vessels, navigating various roles from a Civil War naval Tug to a commercial Barge carrying lumber. Her final voyage highlights the inherent dangers of lake navigation, where storms could prove deadly even to well-built vessels. Though the Clematis is gone, her story endures as part of the rich maritime heritage of the Great Lakes.

Keywords: Clematis, Maria Love, Lake Huron shipwreck, Great Lakes maritime history, Charles Chamberlain, St. Clair River