Identification & Site Information:

• Name(s): Fred McBrier
• Registry: United States
• Official Number: 120452
• Vessel Type: Steambarge
• Year Built: 1881
• Year Sank: 1890
• Hull Material: Wood
• Masts: 2
• Engines: Double Expansion Steam Engine

Dimensions:

• Length: 161 ft (49.1 m)
• Width: 31 ft (9.4 m)
• •Depth: 12 ft (3.7 m)

Vessel Type

The Fred McBrier was a wooden-hulled steambarge designed for carrying bulk cargo. These vessels were equipped with steam engines and were a hybrid between traditional sailing ships and early powered freighters, often retaining masts for auxiliary sails.

Description

Built in 1881, the Fred McBrier served as a cargo vessel on the Great Lakes, carrying heavy loads such as lumber, coal, and grain. Its double expansion steam engine, a relatively advanced technology for the time, made it a powerful and efficient vessel for the era.

On October 14, 1890, the Fred McBrier sank in Lake Michigan near Waugoshance Shoal in a storm. The vessel struck bottom, causing catastrophic damage that split the Hull and led to its sinking. Fortunately, all crew members were rescued by the Steamer Manhattan, making this a rare shipwreck without loss of life.

Final Dispositions

The wreck lies at a depth of 84 ft (25.6 m) in Lake Michigan within the Straits of Mackinac.

• The Stern remains intact but is missing its cabins.

• The bow is split apart, with a section of the Deck lying over the port side.

• The engine is a notable feature of the wreck, showcasing its unique double expansion steam engine design.

• The boiler is located forward of the engine and is also a significant point of interest for divers and maritime historians.

Located By & Date Found

The wreck is part of the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve, a protected area preserving historic shipwrecks in northern Lake Michigan. Its intact Stern and distinctive engine make it a notable wreck for exploration and study.

NOTMARs & Advisories

The depth of the wreck requires divers to have intermediate or advanced skills, as it lies beyond the range of casual snorkelers. The site is protected, and removal of artifacts is prohibited. Divers are encouraged to respect the historical significance of the wreck.

Resources & Links

• Great Lakes Historical Society: Fred McBrier
• Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve: Fred McBrier
• 3DShipwrecks – Fred McBrier

3D Model – Fred McBrier

Fred Mc Brier by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Keywords, Categories, Glossary

Keywords: Fred McBrier, Lake Michigan Shipwrecks, Straits of Mackinac, Steambarge, Double Expansion Engine

Categories: Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime History, Steam-Powered Vessels

Glossary: Steambarge, Double Expansion Engine, Boiler, Port Side, Stern, Shipwreck Preserve