SHIPWRECK REPORT: Harlow (formerly Preston)

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Original Name: Preston

• • Renamed: Harlow (1902)
• • Type: Wooden Steamship (later converted to self-unloading sandsucker)
• • Location: Middle Channel, near green #13 buoy, Chene Highway
• • Coordinates: Not specified
• • Depth of Wreck: Partially exposed at low water levels

CONSTRUCTION & SPECIFICATIONS

• • Original Dimensions (Preston, 1873):
• • Length: 174.5 feet (53.2 meters)
• • Beam: 35 feet (10.7 meters)
• • Depth: 10.7 feet (3.3 meters)
• • Gross Tonnage: 511 tons
• • Rebuilt Dimensions (1899 & 1902):
• • Length: 193.7 feet (59.0 meters)
• • Beam: 35 feet (10.7 meters)
• • Depth: 10.6 feet (3.2 meters)
• • Gross Tonnage: 575 tons
• • Engine: Steeple compound engine with two cylinders (16.32 x 26 inches), 300 horsepower at 85 RPM, manufactured by Phoenix Iron Works, Port Huron, Michigan
• • Boiler: Firebox Boiler (7’6” x 14’), operating at 125 psi, also manufactured by Phoenix Iron Works

HISTORY

The vessel began its career in 1873 as the Preston, owned by P.F. Thrall of Green Bay. Over its long operational life, it underwent multiple ownership changes, rebuilds, and incidents:

• • 1893: Owned by Cleveland Cedar Co., Cleveland, Ohio.
• • 1894: Ownership transferred to William J. Harlow and partners, Toledo, Ohio. Ran aground in Hog Lake Canal, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan; released with Tug assistance.
• • 1899: Rebuilt and lengthened in Toledo.
• • 1901: Became waterlogged during a gale on Lake Superior; Abandoned and later towed to Port Coldwell, Ontario.
• • 1902: Renamed Harlow after another rebuilding in Toledo.
• • 1906: Stranded on Fighting Island, near Detroit, Michigan.
• • 1915: Converted into a self-unloading sandsucker.
• • 1927: Enrollment surrendered in Detroit, marked as “Abandoned-worn out.”

FINAL DISPOSITION

After being scrapped in 1926, the Hull of the Harlow was towed and intentionally sunk to form a breakwall near its 1906 grounding site. Local resident Mr. Sears used the wreck to create a barrier for his property.

Today, the wreck lies on the edge of the Middle Channel, near the green #13 buoy by the Chene Highway. During low water levels, portions of the wreck become exposed, offering a visible reminder of its storied history.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

• Condition: The Hull remains partially intact and is exposed during low water levels. The wreck is a shallow site accessible for visual exploration.

• Accessibility: Easily located near the Middle Channel. While primarily a surface landmark, portions of the wreck can be observed in greater detail during diving or snorkeling.

SIGNIFICANCE

The Harlow’s history reflects the evolution of Great Lakes vessels, from wooden steamships to self-unloading sandsuckers. Its repeated rebuilds and eventual use as a breakwall symbolize the adaptive and pragmatic approaches of Great Lakes maritime industries.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• • David Swayze Shipwreck File: Explore Record
• • Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Historical Vessel Information
• • Great Lakes Ships Database: View Record

CONCLUSION

The wreck of the Harlow offers a unique perspective on Great Lakes maritime history, showcasing the lifecycle of a vessel that transitioned through various roles before becoming a breakwall. It remains a tangible link to the past, easily accessible for both history enthusiasts and casual observers.spotted.