Vessel Identification and Specifications

• Vessel Name: ALGOMAH

• Type: Steam Screw Propulsion (initially misclassified as a steam paddle in the 1885 Merchant Vessel List)

• Primary Role: Ferry for the Detroit, Marquette and Mackinac Railway Company at the Straits of Mackinac

• Builder: Detroit Dry-dock Company

• Dimensions:

• Length: 127.0 feet (38.7 meters)

• Beam (Width): 33.0 feet (10.1 meters)

• Depth: 11.1 feet (3.4 meters)

• Engine: Fore-and-aft compound engine with cylinders measuring 21 and 37 x 36 inches

• Boiler: Otis steel boiler, 8 feet 6 inches in diameter and 16 feet in length, with a half-inch thickness

Purpose and Role

The ALGOMAH was designed as a Ferry vessel to support the Detroit, Marquette and Mackinac Railway Company, catering to passenger and cargo transport needs across the Straits of Mackinac. One of the vessel’s distinguishing features was its ice-breaking capability, enabling it to maintain operations through the harsh winter months. This feature was critical for ensuring consistent transportation service despite the challenging icy conditions often encountered in the straits.

Construction and Innovative Design

Constructed by the Detroit Dry-dock Company, the ALGOMAH was built with meticulous attention to detail. The vessel’s specifications were tailored for durability and efficiency, making it suitable for its role in ferrying through ice-laden waters. Key features included:

• Ice-Breaking Capability: The ALGOMAH’s design was pioneering for its time, allowing it to operate even when the waters around the Straits of Mackinac froze.

• Powerful Engine and Boiler: The fore-and-aft compound engine, paired with an Otis steel boiler, provided the necessary power for both regular navigation and ice-breaking tasks.

Interior Layout and Amenities

The interior of the ALGOMAH was designed to offer comfort and convenience, emphasizing passenger well-being and crew functionality:

• Promenade Deck: Featured a spacious general cabin, equipped with carpet, chairs, and settees for passenger comfort.

• Dining and Cabin Facilities: Included a dining room, ladies’ cabin and washroom, general washroom, pantry, and kitchen.

• Crew Accommodations: Provided sheltered space for crew during harsh weather.

• Navigation: The pilot house, situated on the hurricane Deck, provided optimal Visibility for safe navigation.

Command and Early Operations

The ALGOMAH commenced its operations under the command of Captain A.A. Kirby, with James N. Riley as the mate and E. Saunders as the engineer. During its trial voyage, the ALGOMAH showcased impressive performance, comfortably achieving a speed of 15 miles per hour. This initial voyage demonstrated the vessel’s capabilities, establishing it as a reliable asset for the railway company.

Service History and Final Disposition

• Initial Service: Entered service for the Detroit, Marquette and Mackinac Railway Company and played a vital role in connecting passengers and cargo across the Straits of Mackinac.

• Misclassification in Merchant Vessel List: The 1885 Merchant Vessel List inaccurately categorized the ALGOMAH as a steam paddle vessel, whereas it was equipped with steam Screw Propulsion.

• Conversion and Documentation Removal: In 1940, the ALGOMAH was converted into a Barge. Its documentation was removed in 1944, marking the formal end of its maritime service.

Sources and Additional References

• The J.W. Hall Great Lakes Marine Scrapbook (October/November, 1881): Provides historical insights into Great Lakes vessels, including the ALGOMAH.

• Detroit/Wyandotte Master Shipbuilding List – Institute for Great Lakes Research, Perrysburg, Ohio.

• Merchant Vessel List, U.S., 1885: Includes historical vessel data and classifications (notably misclassified the ALGOMAH as a steam paddle).

Conclusion

The ALGOMAH stands out in Great Lakes maritime history for its ice-breaking capabilities and reliable Ferry service at the Straits of Mackinac. Introduced by the Detroit Dry-dock Company, it was designed to meet the year-round transportation needs of the Detroit, Marquette and Mackinac Railway Company, overcoming the icy challenges of winter. With a well-appointed interior, powerful engine, and robust ice-breaking design, the ALGOMAH exemplifies innovation and durability in 19th-century shipbuilding. After decades of service, its final Conversion to a Barge and subsequent de-documentation in 1944 marked the end of its notable maritime legacy.