Identification & Site Information
• Name: B.F. BRUCE
• Type: Propeller (Steamship)
• Built: 1852, Buffalo, New York
• Original Purpose: Tugboat
• Later Use: Small passenger Steamer and cargo carrier
• Dimensions:
• Length: 110 feet (33.5 meters)
• Beam (Width): 21 feet (6.4 meters)
• Depth: 8 feet (2.4 meters)
• Tonnage: 168 tons
• Home Port: Detroit, Michigan
• Final Resting Place: Near Port Stanley, Lake Erie
Vessel Type Description
The B.F. BRUCE began its career as a Tugboat and later underwent modifications to serve as a small passenger Steamer. It was a propeller-driven Steamship, a design that became increasingly popular on the Great Lakes in the mid-19th century. With its wooden Hull and compact size, the vessel was versatile and capable of handling both passenger services and light cargo transportation.
History
The B.F. BRUCE was constructed in Buffalo, New York, in 1852, and initially served as a Tugboat. Over time, the vessel was converted into a small passenger Steamer to meet the growing demand for transportation on the Great Lakes. The vessel’s ability to adapt to multiple roles, including carrying cargo such as staves, highlights the utilitarian nature of many mid-19th-century steamships.
Throughout its career, the B.F. BRUCE was owned by several parties, including Messrs. Trowbridge, Chapman & Rand of Detroit, and later Casey & Whipple. Its home port remained Detroit, a major hub for Great Lakes shipping during the period.
The Fire and Final Voyage
On August 11, 1862, the B.F. BRUCE was en route from Detroit to Buffalo, transporting a cargo of staves. Approximately 8 miles off Port Stanley in Lake Erie, the vessel caught fire under unclear circumstances. Despite the crew’s best efforts, the flames quickly spread throughout the wooden Hull. The captain attempted to save the ship by steering it toward shore, but the intensity of the fire forced the crew to abandon ship before reaching safety.
The burning vessel drifted ashore near Port Stanley, where it was completely consumed by the fire. Fortunately, no lives were lost during the incident, a rare and fortunate outcome for such disasters in that era.
Possible Cause
The exact cause of the fire was never conclusively determined. However, some sources suggest the possibility of arson, which was not uncommon during a time of heightened tensions and economic competition on the Great Lakes. Despite the catastrophic loss, the B.F. BRUCE was fully insured, mitigating the financial impact on its owners.
Final Disposition
The B.F. BRUCE was entirely destroyed by fire near Port Stanley, Lake Erie. The wreckage was never salvaged or documented in detail, and no remnants of the vessel are known to remain today. Its loss marks the end of a decade-long career serving the Great Lakes region.
NOTMARs & Advisories
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or Navigation Hazards associated with the wreck site of the B.F. BRUCE. The site is considered historically significant but not a point of active exploration.
Located By & Date
The B.F. BRUCE’s final location was identified near Port Stanley shortly after the fire in 1862. However, no modern records exist of attempts to locate or recover the remains.
Resources & Links
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Great Lakes Ships Database
Conclusion
The B.F. BRUCE serves as a historical example of the multifaceted roles played by steam-powered vessels during the 19th century. Its transformation from a Tugboat to a passenger and cargo Steamer demonstrates the adaptability of Great Lakes Ships during an era of rapid industrial and economic growth. The fire that consumed the B.F. BRUCE highlights the inherent dangers of wooden-hulled steamships, particularly in an era with limited fire suppression technology. While its remains are lost to history, the story of the B.F. BRUCE endures as a reminder of the challenges and risks of maritime life on the Great Lakes.
Keywords
#BFBruce #GreatLakes #Steamship #Shipwreck #LakeErie #MaritimeHistory #TugboatConversion #19thCenturyShipping #PortStanley #ArsonRumors
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