Identification & Site Information

•Name: Bayport (formerly Fairport)

•Type: Steel, Steam-Powered Propeller Tugboat

•Built: 1914, by Great Lakes Towing Company, Cleveland, Ohio

•Hull Dimensions:

•Length: 72 feet (21.95 metres)

•Beam: 17 feet (5.18 metres)

•Depth: 12 feet (3.66 metres)

•Gross Tonnage: 65 tons

•Net Tonnage: 31 tons

•Final Location: Near Collingwood, Ontario, Lake Huron

•Status: Capsized and sank on June 22, 1959; raised, repaired, and returned to service.

Vessel Type Description

The Bayport was a steel-hulled Tugboat with a steam-powered engine, later converted to oil power. Designed for towing and icebreaking, its robust construction included a reinforced bow to navigate harsh Great Lakes winters. Tugboats like the Bayport were vital to shipping operations, providing assistance to larger vessels in harbors and along treacherous waterways.

History

The Tugboat began its service in 1914 as the Fairport, constructed for the Great Lakes Towing Company. Its role included icebreaking and towing in the Great Lakes. In 1941, the vessel was sold to Canadian owners, renamed Bayport, and based in Midland, Ontario. It became a key player in maintaining shipping lanes, particularly for grain carriers, during the winter months.

In 1943, the Bayport became part of Canada Steamship Lines’ fleet. On June 22, 1959, while assisting the Steamer Captain C.D. Secordnear Collingwood, Ontario, the Bayport capsized after becoming entangled in its tow cable. The tragic accident resulted in the deaths of three of the six crew members aboard.

Despite the calamity, the vessel was salvaged shortly after its sinking. Over the winter of 1959-1960, it underwent extensive repairs and modifications, including Conversion from steam to oil power. Renamed Tug A in 1962 and later Twin Port in 1963, the vessel continued to serve in various roles until the late 1970s.

Final Disposition

The Bayport met its end in a tragic accident on June 22, 1959, but was salvaged and repaired to resume service under new names. The vessel remained in operation until the late 1970s, highlighting its resilience and utility despite its earlier disaster.

Located By & Date

The wreck was located shortly after its sinking in June 1959. The vessel was successfully raised and repaired.

Notices & Advisories

•NOTMARs: There are no active Notices to Mariners related to the wreck site of the Bayport.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes

•David Swayze Shipwreck File

•Bowling Green State University’s Great Lakes Ships Database

Keywords

•Bayport

•Fairport

•Tugboat

•Great Lakes shipwreck

•Collingwood

•Lake Huron

•Canada Steamship Lines

•Maritime history

•Great Lakes Towing Company

Conclusion

The story of the Bayport, from its early service as the Fairport to its catastrophic sinking and remarkable recovery, embodies the resilience of the Great Lakes maritime industry. This vessel’s history reflects the critical role tugboats played in maintaining commerce and navigation through treacherous waters. The Bayport’s recovery and continued service until the late 1970s exemplify the determination of its owners and crew to preserve its utility and legacy, despite the risks and losses endured.