SHIPWRECK REPORT: AMERICA (Propeller Tug)

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

•Name: America

•Type: Propeller Tug (originally Passenger Vessel)

•Year Built: 1915

•Builder: Burger Boat Company, Manitowoc, Wisconsin

•Official Number: 213020

•Dimensions:

•Length: 56 feet (17 meters)

•Beam (Width): 17 feet (5.2 meters)

•Depth: 6.5 feet (2 meters)

•Tonnage: Gross: 40 tons, Net: 39 tons

•Hull Material: Wood

•Final Location: Dock in Port Huron, Michigan

•Date of Loss: February 9, 1952

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The America was originally built as a passenger vessel in 1915 by the Burger Boat Company, known for crafting high-quality wooden vessels. Over its operational history, the vessel underwent several modifications, including a change in rigging to a Tugboat in 1943. Compact in size and with a wooden Hull, the America was versatile, serving both passenger and towing purposes during its lifespan.

HISTORY

The America served in various capacities during its operational history:

1.Initial Role:

Built as a passenger vessel, the America facilitated transport on U.S. inland waterways, capitalizing on its size and maneuverability.

2.Ownership Timeline:

•1924–1943: Owned by the Bay Transportation Company.

•1943–1947: Purchased by E.S. Lindsay and converted into a Tug.

•1947–1952: Operated by the Inland Lakes Towing and Dredging Company.

•Final Owners: Harold Van Niman and William D. Richards.

3.Tonnage and Rigging Changes:

The vessel underwent a tonnage adjustment in 1925 and a significant rig change in 1943, transforming it into a Tug to meet shifting industry demands.

Final Incident (February 9, 1952):

The aging America succumbed to Hull failure while docked in Port Huron, Michigan. The wooden Hull developed a significant leak, and the vessel sank at the dock. Despite salvage attempts, efforts to recover the vessel from the river proved futile. Ultimately, the America was dismantled and removed from the site by truck in July 1952.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The America was declared a Total Loss after sinking at its dock in Port Huron, Michigan, in February 1952. The vessel was dismantled on-site, and its remains were hauled away.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically associated with the America. The site no longer poses a navigational hazard due to the vessel’s removal.

LOCATED BY & DATE

The America sank at its dock on February 9, 1952, in Port Huron, Michigan. The wreck was dismantled and removed in July 1952.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

The vessel no longer exists as a wreck, having been dismantled and removed from its final location. As a result, there is no wreck site available for exploration or diving.

RESOURCES & LINKS

•David Swayze Shipwreck File

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes

•Bowling Green State University

KEYWORDS

America, Propeller Tug, Wooden Vessel, Port Huron, Lake Huron, Shipwreck, Great Lakes, Maritime History, Burger Boat Company, Inland Waterway Vessel

CONCLUSION

The America was a vessel that adapted to the changing demands of its time, transitioning from a passenger ship to a Tugboat over its operational life. Despite its resilience, the vessel’s wooden construction ultimately led to its demise due to Hull failure. The dismantling and removal of the America marked the end of its service but preserved its legacy in Great Lakes maritime history.