DUKE LUEDTKE (formerly ALPENA) U216022

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

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VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The DUKE LUEDTKE was originally built as a steam-powered tugboat named ALPENA in 1917 by the Great Lakes Towing Company in Cleveland, Ohio. The vessel was constructed with a hull number of 26 and was initially used for towing operations on the Great Lakes.

The tug measured 68 feet in length and was known for its durability and power. In 1957, the tug underwent a significant conversion from steam to diesel power, enhancing its operational efficiency. The single-screw tug was equipped with a 900-horsepower engine, making it a reliable asset for various towing and engineering tasks.

HISTORY #

The tugboat DUKE LUEDTKE had a long and varied history, marked by multiple ownership changes and a notable conversion from steam to diesel power:

• 1917: The tug was built and launched as ALPENA by the Great Lakes Towing Company in Cleveland, Ohio. It served under this name for several decades, primarily engaged in towing operations across the Great Lakes.
• 1945: The Merritt-Chapman and Scott Corporation of New York, New York, acquired the tug. It continued to operate under the name ALPENA.
• 1957: A significant modification took place when the tug was converted from steam-powered to diesel-powered. This upgrade enhanced its performance and prolonged its service life.
• 1966: General Piping Incorporated of Indianapolis, Indiana, became the new owner, retaining the name ALPENA.
• 1972: The Luedtke Engineering Company of Frankfort, Michigan, purchased the tug and renamed it DUKE LUEDTKE. The tug continued to serve in various engineering and towing capacities under this name.

The vessel operated successfully for many years under the ownership of Luedtke Engineering Company. However, in 1993, the DUKE LUEDTKE tragically sank in Lake Erie. The exact details of the sinking, including the cause and any rescue efforts, are not provided in the available information.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

The DUKE LUEDTKE now lies at the bottom of Lake Erie near Avon Point, at a depth of 70 feet. The wreck’s condition is unknown due to the lack of specific details about the circumstances of the sinking. The site may hold significant interest for maritime historians and divers exploring the wrecks of Lake Erie.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #

No current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to this wreck site have been issued. Mariners and divers should exercise caution when approaching the area, as the wreckage may pose hazards at the specified depth.

LOCATED BY & DATE #

The wreck of the DUKE LUEDTKE was reported following its sinking in 1993. The site is known to local divers and maritime historians, with its coordinates documented for reference.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #

The wreck of the DUKE LUEDTKE lies in 70 feet of water, making it accessible to experienced divers. However, the exact condition of the wreck remains unclear, and further exploration may be required to assess its state. The wreck may be of interest to those studying Great Lakes maritime history, particularly the transition from steam to diesel power in early 20th-century tugboats.

RESOURCES & LINKS #

• Primary Sources: Historical records, maritime logs, and vessel documentation.
• Further Reading:
  • Erie Wrecks
  • Great Lakes Ships
  • Maritime History of the Great Lakes

CONCLUSION #

The DUKE LUEDTKE tugboat, with its origins dating back to 1917 as the ALPENA, had a long and varied service life on the Great Lakes. Its conversion from steam to diesel power and multiple ownership changes reflect the evolving needs and technologies of the maritime industry. The vessel’s final chapter ended with its sinking in Lake Erie in 1993, marking the conclusion of its service. The wreck now lies near Avon Point, offering a glimpse into the history of Great Lakes towing vessels and the challenges they faced.

TAGS #

• Tags: #GreatLakes #Shipwrecks #LakeErie #MaritimeHistory #Tugboat #DukeLuedtke #AvonPoint #HistoricalShipwreck #UnderwaterExploration