VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The THOMAS COLEMAN was a wooden propeller tug built in 1864. Tugboats like the THOMAS COLEMAN were essential workhorses in both harbors and open waters, where they assisted in towing larger vessels, maneuvering ships into docks, and performing rescue operations. The THOMAS COLEMAN, with its relatively small size and substantial power, was versatile and could operate in various challenging environments, including the busy waters of New York Harbor and later the Great Lakes.
HISTORY #
Construction and Early Service:
The THOMAS COLEMAN was built in 1864 in Newburgh, New York. Initially serving as a harbor tug in New York, the vessel was involved in various towing and assistance operations typical of tugs in one of the busiest ports in the world. The vessel’s compact design and robust build made it suitable for the demanding tasks it performed.
Transition to the Great Lakes:
In 1874, the THOMAS COLEMAN was brought to the Great Lakes, a region known for its bustling shipping industry. Operating out of Detroit, Michigan, the tug continued its essential duties under the ownership of Captain William Mills. On the Great Lakes, the vessel was likely involved in towing barges, assisting in docking operations, and possibly even aiding in rescue efforts during emergencies.
The Tragic Fire of 1883:
On November 20, 1883, while lying alongside the Bar Point lightship on Lake Erie, the THOMAS COLEMAN was struck by tragedy when it caught fire. The cause of the fire is not well-documented, but it spread rapidly through the wooden structure of the vessel. The crew, faced with the immediate threat of the spreading flames, abandoned the tug and took to a lifeboat. However, the lifeboat was found to be leaky, causing a real fear of drowning among the crew members.
In a fortunate turn of events, the tug “ONEIDA” arrived in time to assist and towed the burning THOMAS COLEMAN to shore. Another tug, named “WILCOX,” managed to extinguish the fire. Despite these efforts, the fire had already consumed the entire upper works of the tug, leaving the vessel severely damaged. Although the vessel was towed ashore, some reports suggest that it was deemed a total loss due to the extent of the damage.
Ownership and Service in the Great Lakes:
The THOMAS COLEMAN, by this point, had been an integral part of the Great Lakes maritime industry for nearly a decade. Owned by Captain William Mills, the tug would have been involved in various operations across the lakes, contributing to the safe navigation and management of the busy shipping lanes.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The THOMAS COLEMAN suffered extensive fire damage on November 20, 1883, near Bar Point lightship in Lake Erie. Despite being towed ashore and having the fire extinguished, the vessel’s upper works were completely destroyed. Reports indicate that the tug was likely deemed a total loss following the incident, marking the end of its nearly two decades of service.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
There are no currently active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the wreck or location of the THOMAS COLEMAN. The vessel was towed ashore, and any remaining wreckage would have been managed at that time.
LOCATED BY & DATE: #
The THOMAS COLEMAN was last located at Bar Point lightship in Lake Erie on November 20, 1883. The vessel was towed ashore following the fire, but the specific location of the wreck or remains is not well-documented.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
CONCLUSION #
The THOMAS COLEMAN was a critical asset in both New York Harbor and later the Great Lakes region, serving for nearly two decades before its tragic end. The fire that consumed the tug in 1883 highlights the ever-present dangers faced by maritime vessels, particularly those made of wood, which were highly susceptible to such incidents. Despite the valiant efforts to save the tug, the damage was too extensive, and the THOMAS COLEMAN was likely declared a total loss. Its story is a reminder of the harsh realities of maritime work during the 19th century.
Keywords:
Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime History, Tugboat, Lake Erie, 19th Century Shipping, Fire at Sea, Bar Point Lightship, Detroit Michigan, Shipwreck Resilience
