The steamer ALBANY and the steamer PHILADELPHIA collided on November 7, 1893, off Point Aux Barques in Lake Huron. The Albany, a steel vessel built in 1884 by the Detroit Dry-Dock Company, was carrying grain from Chicago and Milwaukee to Buffalo. The Philadelphia, a smaller iron vessel built in 1867 by David Bell, was loaded with coal and general merchandise and was traveling from Buffalo to an unspecified destination.
The collision occurred in dense fog, with the Philadelphia striking the Albany head-on forward of No. 2 gangway. After the collision, both vessels sank shortly afterward in 200 feet of water. The Albany sank first, and the Philadelphia followed 30 minutes later. Fortunately, the crews of both vessels managed to escape in two small boats. One of the boats, carrying both captains and 20 men, reached the shore at Point Aux Barques the next morning. However, the fate of the other boat and its occupants is unknown.
The loss resulting from the collision was estimated to be over $400,000, including the value of both vessels and their cargoes. The Albany, rated A1 in Inland Lloyds, had a value of about $175,000, while the Philadelphia, rated A2, was valued at around $90,000.
Different reports indicate varying numbers of casualties. One report mentions that no lives were lost and that both vessels were likely insured. However, another report states that eight lives were lost, with 13 bodies recovered and 10 individuals still missing. The circumstances surrounding the loss of life involve one of the Albany’s lifeboats mysteriously failing to make it to shore, suggesting a tragic incident during calm weather. Speculation suggests that the abandoned Philadelphia, still underway, may have inadvertently collided with the lifeboat in the dense fog.
The Albany was owned by the Western Transportation Company, based in Buffalo, while the Philadelphia belonged to the Anchor Line. Both vessels were operated by experienced and trustworthy men, with Captain R.A. McDonald commanding the Albany and Captain E.A. Huff serving as master of the Philadelphia.
These details provide a historical account of the collision between the Albany and the Philadelphia in 1893, resulting in the sinking of both vessels in Lake Huron.
