CASCADE U126913

The Tug Cascade: A Brief History #

The Cascade was a wooden-hulled steam tug built in Buffalo, New York, in 1892. It was initially owned by the Hand & Johnson Tug Line and later transferred to Elihu M. Pierce and Walter R. Wood. The tug was highly regarded for its engineering excellence, with its powerful engine and large propeller. This article explores the construction, specifications, notable events, and eventual loss of the Cascade tugboat.

The Cascade was constructed by O’Grady & Maher in Buffalo, NY, and completed in 1892. It had a wooden hull, measured approximately 73.42 feet in length, 19.66 feet in width, and had a depth of 10.42 feet. The tug had a gross tonnage of 77 and a net tonnage of 38.

The Cascade was equipped with a high-pressure non-condensing engine built by Whitman & Co. in Buffalo, NY. This engine was the largest among Buffalo tugs at the time and provided a significant power output. The engine had a single cylinder and drove a single propeller. Additionally, the tug had a 9′ x 15′, 145-pound firebox boiler.

Upon its completion, the Cascade underwent a thorough inspection by tug engineers in the harbor, who deemed it a perfect example of a well-made tugboat. It received high praise for its design and engineering, particularly its powerful engine. The tug was owned by the Hand & Johnson Tug Line during its early years and later transferred to Elihu M. Pierce and Walter R. Wood in 1895.

Tragically, the Cascade met its demise on January 24, 1904. While operating on Lake Erie, the tug encountered heavy ice, resulting in damage to the vessel. The Cascade eventually sank approximately 1,000 feet northeast of the breakwall at Lorain, Ohio. Fortunately, the crew managed to escape, and there were no reported casualties.

The Cascade tugboat, built in 1892, showcased exceptional engineering and design. It was recognized for its powerful engine, large propeller, and overall excellence as a tug. However, the tug’s career was cut short when it encountered ice that caused significant damage, ultimately leading to its sinking. The Cascade’s loss serves as a reminder of the challenging conditions faced by vessels on the Great Lakes and the risks associated with navigating icy waters.

External Links #

• Great Lakes Ships
• David Swayze Shipwreck File
• Bowing Green State University
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes