Shipwreck Report: R.J. Henry

Identification & Site Information

• •Name: R.J. Henry
• •Type: Wooden Steamer
• •Builder: R.J. Hackett, St. Clair, Michigan
• •Year Built: 1874
• •Hull Material: Wood
• •Dimensions:
  • •Length: 203 feet (62 meters)
  • •Beam: 33 feet (10 meters)
  • •Depth: 14 feet (4.3 meters)
  • •Gross Tonnage: ~1,000 tons
• •Original Owner: Captain Alexander McDougall
• •Date Lost: October 1913
• •Final Location: Near Port Austin, Lake Huron
• •Coordinates: Not precisely recorded
• •Depth: Believed to rest at approximately 60 feet (18 meters)

Vessel Type Description

The R.J. Henry was a wooden-hulled steam-powered bulk freighter designed for carrying large quantities of grain, ore, and other bulk cargoes across the Great Lakes. Built in 1874, it was a quintessential example of the innovative “Whaleback” style pioneered by its owner, Captain Alexander McDougall.

History

Construction and Early Career

The R.J. Henry was constructed in 1874 by the renowned shipbuilder R.J. Hackett, whose designs revolutionized Great Lakes shipping. The freighter was commissioned by Captain Alexander McDougall, a maritime innovator known for developing efficient vessels tailored to the unique challenges of Great Lakes navigation.

Initially, the R.J. Henry served in the grain trade, transporting bulk agricultural products from Midwest ports to eastern markets. It also carried iron ore and coal as part of its versatile operations.

Service Incidents

• •1882: Grounded near the St. Clair River due to navigational challenges but was successfully refloated with minimal damage.
• •1896: Collided with another freighter near the Soo Locks, resulting in repairs to its Hull.
• •1905: Converted to a towbarge as newer steel freighters began dominating the industry.

Final Voyage and Loss

In October 1913, the R.J. Henry was being towed on Lake Huron with a cargo of coal when it encountered a sudden gale near Port Austin. The vessel broke free from its tow and was heavily damaged by waves before it ran aground on a sandbar. Efforts to salvage the freighter were unsuccessful, and it ultimately sank in the storm, marking the end of its operational life.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the R.J. Henry rests near Port Austin in Lake Huron at a depth of approximately 60 feet (18 meters). Its location is known to local diving communities, though it has not been extensively surveyed or explored.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck is believed to be in moderate condition for its age. Divers report remnants of the wooden Hull and parts of the machinery are still visible. The site is considered accessible for experienced divers due to its depth and exposure to potentially strong currents.

Resources & Links

• •Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Explore shipwreck history
• •NOAA Great Lakes Wreck Database: Records of notable wrecks in the Great Lakes.
• •David Swayze Shipwreck File: Comprehensive historical shipwreck accounts.

Legacy

The loss of the R.J. Henry serves as a testament to the risks faced by vessels during the early 20th century, particularly as they transitioned from wood to steel. Its story reflects the evolving nature of Great Lakes commerce and the enduring challenges of navigating one of the world’s most dynamic inland waterways.

For further research or exploration efforts, the R.J. Henry remains a significant part of Lake Huron’s underwater cultural heritage.