Donnelly, Sin-Mac

Donnelly, Sin-Mac was a notable partnership in the Canadian maritime industry, known for their involvement in ship ownership, towing, and salvage operations in the early-to-mid 20th century. This partnership played a significant role in the Great Lakes region, contributing to the management and utilization of vessels designed for bulk transport, towing, and salvage work.

Overview of Donnelly, Sin-Mac

• Industry: Maritime operations, including vessel ownership, towing, and salvage.
• Primary Region of Operation: Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.
• Era: Mid-20th century.
• Core Services: Tugboat operations, barge management, vessel salvage, and cargo transport.

Key Contributions

Towing and Salvage Services: Donnelly, Sin-Mac was a trusted name in towing operations, assisting vessels in navigating the often challenging waters of the Great Lakes.The company played a pivotal role in the salvage and towing of aging vessels, often repurposing or scuttling them at the end of their operational lives.

Vessels Owned or Operated by

• Cobourg: Donnelly, Sin-Mac became the owners of the steel schooner barge Cobourg, which they utilized for its bulk cargo capabilities before it was scuttled in 1967 near Amherst Island in Lake Ontario.
• Frontenac was a wooden screw steamer tugboat built in 1901 by the Calvin Company at Garden Island, Ontario. The vessel was specifically designed for towing large rafts of square timber, a crucial part of the timber trade in the early 20th century. The Frontenac was sturdy and capable of handling the heavy loads required for this purpose, which contributed to its significant role in the industry.

Support of Maritime Infrastructure:

Through their operations, Donnelly, Sin-Mac supported the maritime infrastructure of the Great Lakes, ensuring that vessels were kept in service as long as economically feasible and contributing to the regional economy.

Operational Practices Repurposing of Older Vessels:

The company was known for acquiring aging ships and extending their operational life through repairs and modifications. When vessels could no longer be repaired, they facilitated their intentional scuttling, as with the Cobourg, to clear space for newer, more efficient ships. Collaboration with Prominent Towing and Salvage Firms: The partnership often worked with other towing and salvage companies, including McAllister Towing, to provide comprehensive maritime services.

Legacy

The efforts of Donnelly, Sin-Mac left a lasting impact on the Great Lakes maritime industry. Their work in managing vessels like the Cobourg and ensuring the continuity of shipping and salvage services highlighted their importance in maintaining the region’s shipping network. Although their operations have ceased, the remnants of their work, including historical wrecks and salvaged vessels, remain significant artifacts of the Great Lakes’ rich maritime history.

Resources & Further Reading

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