Identification & Site Information #
Vessel Type Description #
The Lena Behm was a wooden schooner, a common type of vessel in the late 19th century, particularly on the Great Lakes. Schooners were typically used for transporting cargo due to their ability to navigate the often-shallow waters of the Great Lakes with their flat-bottomed hulls. The Lena Behm’s two masts and relatively small size made her a nimble vessel, well-suited for the freight demands of the time.
History #
Constructed in 1886 by F. Behm in Grand Haven, Michigan, the Lena Behm was part of a lineage of wooden schooners that were vital to commerce across the Great Lakes. Measuring 59 feet in length with a beam of 16.3 feet, she was a modest-sized vessel, yet significant enough to serve various freight purposes along the lake routes.
Initially, the schooner was owned by its builder, F. Behm. However, in 1899, ownership changed hands to William McCullough, who enrolled the vessel in Port Huron. Under McCullough’s ownership, the Lena Behm continued her service on the lakes until the tragic incident that led to her demise.
In 1900, while sailing off the coast of Port Hope, Michigan, the Lena Behm encountered a catastrophic event—a fire broke out on board. The blaze quickly spread through the wooden structure, and despite any efforts to save her, the schooner was completely consumed by flames. The cause of the fire remains a mystery, and historical records do not provide details on any potential loss of life or the cargo she might have been carrying at the time of the incident.
The severity of the fire led to the total destruction of the vessel. By the end of the year, on December 31, 1900, the official documentation for the Lena Behm was surrendered at Port Huron, marking the end of her existence as an active vessel.
Final Disposition #
The Lena Behm was declared a total loss following the fire. The exact location of her wreck remains unclear, and there are no detailed reports of her remains being found or salvaged. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of wooden ships, particularly to fire, which was a significant hazard in an era before modern firefighting techniques and equipment.
NOTMARs & Advisories #
- Current Status: There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the wreck of the Lena Behm. Given the complete destruction by fire, it is unlikely that the wreck presents any navigational hazards today.
Located By & Date #
- Discovery: The exact location of the Lena Behm’s wreck has not been identified or confirmed.
Resources & Links #
- Great Lakes Ships: Great Lakes Ships
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: Swayze Shipwreck File
Conclusion #
The fiery loss of the Lena Behm in 1900 off Port Hope, Michigan, highlights the ever-present dangers faced by sailors and vessels on the Great Lakes. Despite her small size, the Lena Behm played a role in the economic life of the region, contributing to the movement of goods across the water. Her untimely demise is a reminder of the challenges of maritime navigation during this era and the unpredictable nature of life on the Great Lakes.
Keywords: #
- Lena Behm
- Wooden Schooner
- Lake Huron Shipwreck
- Port Hope, Michigan
- Maritime Fire
- Great Lakes History
- Sailing Vessel
- 19th Century Shipping
- William McCullough
- Grand Haven, Michigan
The story of the Lena Behm adds to the rich tapestry of Great Lakes maritime history, representing both the industrious spirit of the region and the hazards that came with navigating its vast and often treacherous waters.
