SHIPWRECK REPORT – ANNA SMITH

Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Name: ANNA SMITH

•Vessel Type: Steam Barge

•Date of Fire: December 26, 1889

•Location of Incident: Burt’s Dock, Upper End of the City Cheboygan

•Final Disposition: Became a Total Loss; wreckage salvaged to Cheboygan, leaving the engine and boiler behind

Vessel Type Description

The ANNA SMITH was a steam Barge, a workhorse vessel commonly employed on the Great Lakes during the late 19th century. Steam barges were typically used to carry bulk cargoes such as lumber, grain, or coal and were equipped with engines for propulsion, making them versatile in all weather conditions. These vessels often served as towing boats for additional barges, amplifying their transport capacity.

History

On December 26, 1889, the ANNA SMITH was docked at Burt’s Dock when a fire broke out near the aft end of the vessel, close to the engine. The origin of the fire remained unknown. Fortunately, the CITY OF NEW BALTIMORE, a nearby propeller, responded promptly, deploying two water streams to extinguish the flames. Thanks to this swift action, the fire caused only minor damage to the vessel at the time.

Despite surviving this incident, the ANNA SMITH met its end as a Total Loss at an unspecified later date. The valuable portions of the wreck were salvaged and taken to Cheboygan, leaving only the engine and boiler at the wreck site.

Final Disposition

The ANNA SMITH was declared a Total Loss after its abandonment. The salvaging of valuable components highlights its industrial significance, even in loss. The engine and boiler were left behind at the final location, likely due to their immovable or deteriorated condition.

NOTMARs & Advisories

No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the ANNA SMITH have been documented. However, the remnants of the engine and boiler may have posed a hazard to navigation in the immediate aftermath of the wreck.

Located By & Date

The wreck of the ANNA SMITH was partially salvaged to Cheboygan at an unspecified date following its declaration as a Total Loss. Its exact location has not been widely documented.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The engine and boiler reportedly remained at the site, suggesting the wreck may have been left to deteriorate naturally. Without further records of its exact location, it is unclear if any remnants are currently accessible for diving or exploration.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database

•Cheboygan Historical Maritime Records

•Local Great Lakes Wreck Reports

Conclusion

The story of the ANNA SMITH reflects the challenges faced by steam barges on the Great Lakes, from the hazards of onboard fires to the industrial salvaging that followed their loss. While the vessel’s final wrecking details are sparse, its near escape in 1889 underscores the vigilance and community response that characterized Great Lakes maritime operations in the 19th century.

Keywords

#AnnaSmith #SteamBarge #GreatLakesHistory #CheboyganSalvage #MaritimeFire #ShipwreckReports