Wreck Report: Tug LEVIATHAN

Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: LEVIATHAN
• Vessel Type: Wrecking Tug
• Date Built: 1857
• Place Built: Buffalo, New York
• Tonnage:
• Gross: 232.44 tons
• Net: 129.05 tons
• Home Port: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Owner at Time of Loss: S.B. Grummond (Grummond Line), Detroit
• Date of Incident:
• Fire: November 30, 1891
• Declared Lost: February 15, 1892
• Location: Cheboygan, Michigan
• Final Disposition: Destroyed by fire, Total Loss, along with pumps and wrecking equipment.

Vessel Type Description

The LEVIATHAN was a wrecking Tug designed for towing and rescuing stranded vessels in the Great Lakes, specifically in the Straits of Mackinac. Built for durability and versatility, the Tug played a vital role in Great Lakes maritime operations. With her tonnage and equipment, she was capable of handling significant salvage operations, making her a critical asset in maritime rescue missions.

History

The LEVIATHAN was launched in 1857 in Buffalo, New York, and had a storied career spanning over three decades. Initially serving as a standard Tugboat, she transitioned into a wrecking Tug, where she became renowned for her efficiency in rescuing stranded vessels and recovering cargo.

Over the years, she changed ownership multiple times, reflecting the financial challenges and operational demands of her career. Despite this, the LEVIATHAN remained a vital asset for her owners, particularly in the Straits of Mackinac, where she performed numerous salvage and rescue operations.

By the time of her destruction, she was owned by S.B. Grummond of Detroit and operated under the Grummond Line. On November 30, 1891, the LEVIATHAN burned while docked in Cheboygan, Michigan, resulting in the loss of the Tug and all her equipment. Her Total Loss was officially declared on February 15, 1892, marking the end of her notable service on the Great Lakes.

Final Disposition

The LEVIATHAN was destroyed by fire in Cheboygan, Michigan, and declared a Total Loss. Her pumps and other wrecking equipment were also consumed in the fire. Despite her age and financial difficulties in later years, she had a remarkable legacy as a reliable and efficient wrecking Tug in Great Lakes maritime history.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• David Swayze Shipwreck File: David Swayze Shipwreck File
• Great Lakes Shipwreck Database: Great Lakes Ships
• 3DShipwrecks – Leviathan

3D Model – Leviathan

Leviathan by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Conclusion

The LEVIATHAN was a vital part of Great Lakes maritime history, known for her efficient rescues and reliable service as a wrecking Tug. Her destruction by fire in Cheboygan in 1891 marked the end of a remarkable career, but her contributions to Great Lakes navigation and salvage operations remain a notable chapter in maritime history.

Keywords

Great Lakes wrecking Tug #Cheboygan fire incident #Wrecking equipment loss #Straits of Mackinac #Maritime rescue operations #Grummond Line