IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

Vessel Name: Jordan Beebe Jr.

Type: Schooner (Converted to Steam Tug in 1884)

Built: 1881, by R. Satimore, Bay City, Michigan

Dimensions:

•Length: 46 feet (14 meters)

•Beam: 14 feet (4.3 meters)

•Depth: 5 feet (1.5 meters)

Tonnage:

•Gross: 21 tons

•Net: 20 tons

Final Resting Place: Off Put-in-Bay, South Bass Island, Lake Erie

Date of Incident: November 20, 1893

Condition: Completely destroyed by fire

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The Jordan Beebe Jr. was originally built as a Schooner for fishing on the Great Lakes, showcasing the robust yet nimble design required for effective operation in variable lake conditions. Schooners of this era were integral to the commercial fishing industry, particularly in transporting large hauls of fish. In 1884, the vessel underwent a significant transformation into a steam Tug, reflecting the industrial shift toward mechanized propulsion. The Conversion added versatility to its operations, including towing and expanded fishing capabilities, aligning with the increasing demands of the maritime industry.

HISTORY

The Jordan Beebe Jr. began its service in 1881, owned by W.A. Beebe of Bay City, Michigan. It was a modest but essential part of the fishing fleet, capable of navigating the sometimes challenging conditions of the Great Lakes. Its Conversion to steam power in 1884 allowed it to take on additional roles, such as towing and supporting more efficient fishing operations.

The vessel changed hands multiple times, demonstrating its continued utility and value:

•1888: Owned by C.B. Curtis.

•1889: Purchased by Henry L. Shaw and Laura W. Shaw.

•1891: Acquired by David E. Dues.

On November 20, 1893, tragedy struck when the Jordan Beebe Jr. caught fire near Put-in-Bay, South Bass Island, Lake Erie. Despite the devastation, no lives were lost. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it highlights the inherent risks associated with steam-powered vessels, including boiler explosions and flammable fuel stores.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The fire completely consumed the Jordan Beebe Jr., leaving no recoverable wreckage. The vessel’s documentation was officially surrendered on December 29, 1893, concluding its service history. The site of the incident is not accessible for diving or exploration due to the total destruction of the vessel.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) concerning the Jordan Beebe Jr., as the vessel was entirely destroyed.

LOCATED BY & DATE

The fire occurred off Put-in-Bay, South Bass Island, Lake Erie. The precise location is known from contemporary accounts, but no wreckage remains to be discovered or documented.

RESOURCES & LINKS

•Great Lakes Ships Database: General vessel information and historical records.

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive maritime history repository.

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Database of Great Lakes shipwrecks and maritime losses.

•Historical Newspapers: Buffalo Courier-Express, November 21, 1893—Reported on the fire and loss of the Jordan Beebe Jr.

•Photo Archives: Great Lakes Maritime Collection may include archival images or sketches of the vessel pre-Conversion or post-Conversion.

CONCLUSION

The Jordan Beebe Jr. tells a story of adaptability and innovation, transitioning from a traditional Schooner to a modern steam Tug during a pivotal period of maritime history. Its destruction in 1893 underscores the dangers of evolving technologies and the harsh conditions of the Great Lakes. While the vessel’s physical remains are lost, its legacy persists as part of the rich maritime history of the region.

KEYWORDS

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