Steamer Penobscot: A History

The Steamer Penobscot, a Great Lakes vessel, was an integral part of the bustling maritime commerce of the region. Designed primarily for transporting bulk cargo such as grain and other goods, the Penobscot was one of many steamers that plied the Great Lakes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Specifications and Design

•Type: Steel-hulled bulk freighter

•Construction: Built to handle the harsh conditions of the Great Lakes with a durable steel Hull.

•Primary Purpose: Grain transport, indicative of its role in supporting the agricultural economy of the Midwest.

•Capacity and Power: The vessel was designed for substantial cargo loads, reflecting the industrial demand of the era.

Role in Maritime Commerce

The Penobscot regularly transported grain and other commodities between ports such as Buffalo, New York, and other key hubs along the Great Lakes. It was part of the vital shipping networks that connected inland agricultural production with markets and export points.

The 1951 Disaster

The Steamer Penobscot is most famously remembered for its involvement in the Morania #130 disaster on October 29, 1951, a tragedy that unfolded on the Buffalo River.

•Incident Details: While departing Buffalo after unloading a cargo of grain, the Penobscot collided with the Barge Morania #130, which was laden with 800,000 gallons of gasoline. The collision caused the gasoline to ignite, resulting in a massive fire that raged for days.

•Casualties: Two of the Penobscot’s crew members were among the 11 fatalities in the disaster.

•Damage: Although the Penobscot survived the fire, the incident left an indelible mark on its history and reputation.

Legacy

The Penobscot’s involvement in one of Buffalo’s worst maritime disasters has made it a significant subject of maritime history. While the Steamer itself was a symbol of industrial progress, the tragedy underscored the dangers inherent in the shipping of hazardous materials.

Today, the Penobscot is remembered not just for its role in commerce but also as part of the cautionary tale of the Morania #130 disaster, serving as a reminder of the importance of safety in maritime operations.