Identification & Site Information

• Name: B.W. Blanchard

• Type: Steambarge (originally built as a package freighter)

• Built: 1870 by Quayle & Martin, Cleveland, Ohio

• Final Length: 221 feet (70 meters)

• Beam (Width): 32.4 feet (9.9 meters)

• Depth: 11.8 feet (3.6 meters)

• Gross Tonnage: 919.62 tons (post-reconstruction)

• Depth of Wreck: 10 feet (3 meters)

• Location: Thunder Bay, Lake Huron, near Alpena, Michigan

• Coordinates: N 45°01.271’ W 83°15.763’

• Final Resting Place: North Point Reef, Thunder Bay, Lake Huron

Vessel Type Description

The B.W. Blanchard was originally constructed as a package freighter, a versatile vessel type used for carrying general cargo. It was later converted into a steambarge in 1902, reflecting its transition to bulk cargo operations, primarily transporting lumber. The vessel featured a single Deck, two masts, and one stack after its reconstruction, making it more suitable for heavy cargo. Its propulsion was provided by a steeple compound engine, with a single screw propeller driven by 400 horsepower.

History

Construction and Early Service

The B.W. Blanchard was built in 1870 by the shipbuilding firm Quayle & Martin in Cleveland, Ohio. The wooden-hulled vessel began its life as a package freighter, regularly operating on routes between Chicago, Milwaukee, and Buffalo. It often towed barges and transported a variety of cargo, showcasing its importance in regional trade.

During its early years, the vessel experienced several notable incidents:

• 1873: Collided with the Steamer Arizona.

• 1878: Damaged in a collision with the scow Mary Garrett.

• 1884-1885: Sustained fire damage while docked in Milwaukee.

Reconstruction and Later Service

In 1902, the B.W. Blanchard was sold and underwent significant modifications in Chicago. It was converted into a steambarge, primarily used for lumber transportation. This reconstruction altered its dimensions, tonnage, and overall configuration, adapting it to new demands.

Final Voyage

On November 28, 1904, the B.W. Blanchard was en route from Cheboygan, Michigan, to Detroit, towing two lumber-laden barges (J.T. Johnson and John Kelderhouse). The vessel encountered a severe gale in Thunder Bay, Lake Huron, which drove it onto North Point Reef. The impact caused the vessel to break in half and sink.

Despite the destruction of the B.W. Blanchard, all crew members were successfully rescued by the U.S. Life Saving Service. Salvage efforts recovered some of the lumber and parts of the boiler, but the vessel itself was Abandoned.

Final Disposition

The B.W. Blanchard remains in 10 feet (3 meters) of water at North Point Reef near Alpena, Michigan. The wreck is broken and scattered, reflecting the catastrophic damage sustained during its final voyage. It serves as a stark reminder of the hazards of navigating Lake Huron’s treacherous waters.

NOTMARs & Advisories

• Current Advisories: No active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with the wreck. Divers and maritime enthusiasts are advised to approach the site with caution due to the shallow depths and potential hazards from debris.

Located By & Date

The wreck of the B.W. Blanchard was known immediately after its sinking in 1904 due to its proximity to shore and the rescue of its crew. Its shallow depth makes it accessible for divers and historians.

Current Condition & Accessibility

• Condition: The wreck is heavily deteriorated, with significant portions scattered across the lakebed at a depth of 10 feet (3 meters).

• Accessibility: Due to its shallow depth and location near Alpena, Michigan, the site is accessible for divers and snorkelers, though care must be taken to preserve the wreckage.

Resources & Links

• Thunder Bay Marine Museum: Insights into local shipwrecks and maritime history.

• David Swayze Shipwreck File: Comprehensive database of Great Lakes shipwrecks.

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Detailed historical records of vessels like the B.W. Blanchard.

• Great Lakes Ships Database: Vessel details and operational histories.

• Bowling Green State University Archives: Photographs and archival records.

Conclusion

The B.W. Blanchard had a storied career spanning decades, transitioning from a package freighter to a steambarge. Its ultimate demise on North Point Reef during a fierce gale in 1904 exemplifies the inherent dangers of maritime transport on the Great Lakes. The wreckage, now a part of Thunder Bay’s underwater heritage, serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and risks of Great Lakes shipping in the early 20th century.

Keywords

#BWBlanchard #ThunderBay #LakeHuron #Steambarge #Shipwreck #GreatLakesMaritimeHistory #NorthPointReef #AlpenaMichigan