The BLACK MARLIN: A Fish Tug’s Fateful Encounter with Lake Erie
The Black Marlin, formerly known as the Martha M., was a wooden propeller tug that sailed the waters of Lake Erie. Built in 1935 by Earl S. Miniger in Vermilion, Ohio, this 11-ton vessel underwent a name change in 1953 and embarked on its final journey as the Black Marlin. Sadly, the Black Marlin’s fate took a tragic turn on November 29, 1958, when it foundered in a powerful storm near Avon Point, west of Cleveland. This article delves into the details of the Black Marlin’s construction, specifications, and the circumstances surrounding its loss, offering a glimpse into the vessel’s history and its ill-fated end.
Construction and Specifications:
The Black Marlin, originally registered as the Martha M., was a fish tug with a wooden hull. Measuring 39.8 feet in length, 13.8 feet in width, and 3.5 feet in depth, it had a gross tonnage of 11 and a net tonnage of 9. Built by Earl S. Miniger, a skilled shipbuilder from Vermilion, Ohio, the Martha M. served its purpose as a fish tug for several years before undergoing a significant alteration.
Name Change and Conversion:
In 1953, the Martha M. underwent a transformation, changing both its name and rig. Renamed the Black Marlin, the vessel shifted from being a fish tug to a tow vessel, highlighting its adaptability and versatility.
Loss in Lake Erie:
Tragedy struck the Black Marlin on November 29, 1958, off Avon Point in Lake Erie. While battling extreme weather conditions, including 15-foot waves, 75 mph winds, and temperatures as low as -6°F, the tug’s engine failed. Overwhelmed by the powerful storm, the vessel foundered in the treacherous waters. Fortunately, the two crew members on board were rescued by Coast Guardsmen from Lorain, Ohio. Despite the loss of the tug, no lives were lost in this harrowing incident.
Ownership and Final Years:
Throughout its existence, the Black Marlin changed hands multiple times. Earl S. Miniger initially owned the vessel from its construction in 1935 until 1944. Lloyd W. Leidheiser then took ownership until 1953, when David A. Dyche assumed control. Finally, the D.A. Dyche Salvage Co., Inc., based in Lakewood, Ohio, became the vessel’s owner from 1954 until its untimely demise in 1958.
The Black Marlin, formerly known as the Martha M., started its journey as a fish tug and later transitioned into a tow vessel on Lake Erie. However, its final voyage ended tragically in a fierce storm near Avon Point. The vessel’s engine failure, combined with extreme weather conditions, led to its ultimate foundering. Despite the loss of the Black Marlin, the bravery and expertise of the Coast Guardsmen ensured the safe rescue of its crew members. Through its history and fateful end, the Black Marlin serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by mariners on the Great Lakes and the unpredictable nature of Lake Erie’s waters.
