Identification & Site Information

•Name: MARYSVILLE (formerly NORMANDIE)

•Type: Steambarge (later converted to a self-unloading sand Dredge)

•Year Built: 1894

•Builder: Unknown, Green Bay, Wisconsin

•Hull Material: Wood

•Length: 160 feet (48.8 m)

•Beam (Width): 35.3 feet (10.8 m)

•Depth: 10.8 feet (3.3 m)

•Gross Tonnage: 567.28 tons

•Net Tonnage: 430.13 tons

•Engine: For-and-aft compound engine (20 + 40 x 30 in), 300 HP, Phoenix Iron Works, Port Huron, Michigan

•Boiler: Firebox, 9 ft 6 in x 12 ft, 125 PSI, Phoenix Iron Works

Vessel Type Description

The MARYSVILLE was a wooden-hulled steambarge designed for cargo transport, later converted into a self-unloading sand Dredge. Equipped with a single Deck and Screw Propulsion, it was typical of steam-powered vessels on the Great Lakes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With its 700-ton cargo capacity, the vessel supported industries such as shipping, construction, and gravel and sand dredging. Its Conversion to a self-unloading Dredge reflected the evolving demands of maritime operations on the Great Lakes.

History

Construction and Early Service

Launched in 1894 as NORMANDIE, the vessel served under its original owner P. F. Thrall in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The MARYSVILLE was powered by a Phoenix Iron Works compound engine and boiler, providing reliable performance in various capacities.

Collisions and Incidents

The MARYSVILLE had its share of maritime mishaps:

•1894 Collision: The vessel collided with the Schooner ASHLAND in Lake Huron, reflecting the challenges of navigating busy waterways.

•1896 Incident: In Port Huron, the vessel struck the yacht AZALEA on the St. Clair River, a testament to the congested shipping lanes in the region.

Ownership Changes and Rebuilds

Over its operational life, the MARYSVILLE saw numerous owners and purposes:

•Early Owners: Including O. L. Harder and Charles G. Forster, among others.

•Later Owners: Companies such as Morton Salt Co., Pringle Barge Line Co., John R. Lee, and Lake Gravel Co. played roles in the vessel’s history.

•Conversion to Sand Dredge: At some point during its service, the vessel was Rebuilt and adapted into a self-unloading sand Dredge, a role it maintained until its demise.

Final Fate

On June 25, 1928, while docked at the mouth of Belle River near Marine City, Michigan, the MARYSVILLE caught fire and burned to the waterline. The vessel sank in its mooring, marking the end of its operational life. The cause of the fire is not well-documented, but the incident underscores the vulnerabilities of wooden vessels operating with combustible cargoes and equipment.

Final Disposition

•Date of Loss: June 25, 1928

•Cause: Fire leading to sinking at dock

•Location: Mouth of Belle River, near Marine City, Michigan, Lake Huron

The wreck of the MARYSVILLE remains in situ at its sinking location. The site has not been heavily documented or explored, possibly due to the vessel’s loss being primarily above-water destruction before submersion.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specific to the wreck of the MARYSVILLE. The shallow nature of the sinking site and its location near Marine City may not pose a navigational hazard in modern waterways but could be of interest to local divers or historians.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database

•David Swayze Shipwreck File

•Great Lakes Maritime Historical Society Archives

Analysis

The MARYSVILLE exemplifies the versatility of wooden steambarges during the industrial expansion of the Great Lakes region. Despite its sturdy construction and adaptability, the vessel faced the inherent risks of its era, including collisions, fires, and eventual obsolescence. The incident of its final loss highlights the vulnerabilities of wooden-hulled steamers, particularly those repurposed for industrial tasks such as sand dredging. The MARYSVILLE’s long service life and various roles make it a noteworthy chapter in the maritime history of Lake Huron and the broader Great Lakes.

Keywords

MARYSVILLE, NORMANDIE, Steambarge, Wooden Hull, Sand Dredge, Marine City, Belle River, Phoenix Iron Works, Great Lakes Maritime History, 19th Century Shipping.