Identification & Site Information:

• Name: MILLS
• Type: Wooden-Hulled Barge
• Built: 1870, Vicksburg (Marysville), Michigan
• Builder: Philander Lester
• Original Owners: Mills Transportation Co. (Nelson and B. Mills of Marysville, Henry McMorran of Port Huron)
• Dimensions:
• Length: 164.4 feet (50.1 meters)
• Beam: 29.9 feet (9.1 meters)
• Depth: 11.6 feet (3.5 meters)
• Tonnage:
• Gross Tonnage: 391.49
• Net Tonnage: 305.91
• Capacity: 385,000 board feet of lumber
• Final Resting Place: Opposite McGregor Point, St. Clair River
• 42.7955000°, -082.4778167°

Vessel Type Description:

The MILLS was a wooden Barge designed primarily for the lumber trade, equipped with a single Deck and a robust build to accommodate large loads. Its design included a steeple compound engine, which provided reliable towing power for its time.

The Barge was an integral part of the lumber industry in the Great Lakes region, capable of carrying significant cargo and frequently operating in conjunction with tugs.

History:

The MILLS was constructed in 1870 by Philander Lester, marking the beginning of its career in the lumber trade. Owned initially by the Mills Transportation Co., it was frequently used to transport lumber across the Great Lakes. Over the years, the vessel underwent several ownership changes, reflecting its steady use and importance in the regional economy.

The vessel’s engine, a steeple compound model built by Cuyahoga Iron Works in Cleveland, Ohio, was a technological feature that enabled efficient towing operations, producing 400 horsepower at 95 RPM.

In 1901, ownership transferred to the Port Huron Navigation Co., with N. Mills serving as the company president.

Final Disposition:

On September 6, 1906, while en route from Cleveland, Ohio, to Algoma Mills, Ontario, the MILLS was in tow by the Tug A. ANDERSON. The Barge collided head-on with the Steamer MILWAUKEE in the St. Clair River, south of St. Clair. The collision crushed the MILLS’ bow, causing it to sink rapidly.

Tragically, two lives were lost, including the wife of the engineer. To ensure navigational safety, the wreck of the MILLS was later blown up to clear the channel.

Notable Modifications:

The MILLS underwent repairs and modifications throughout its operational life to maintain its reliability and adapt to the demands of the lumber trade.

Located By & Date:

The site of the sinking is known (St. Clair River), but there are no specific records of modern recovery or detailed exploration of the wreckage.

NOTMARs & Advisories:

No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with the wreck of the MILLS.

Resources & Links:

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• David Swayze Shipwreck File

3D Modela

Mills Boiler by Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary on Sketchfab

Mills Engine by Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary on Sketchfab