IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION:
The Bruno was a wooden propeller-driven steambarge built for both passenger and freight transport across the Great Lakes. Originally constructed by Bruno Loignon in Montreal, the vessel was typical of the versatile steamers of its era, designed to navigate the challenging waters of the Great Lakes while carrying a variety of cargoes.
HISTORY:
The Bruno had a storied and eventful history from the moment it was launched in 1863. Initially owned by J. & R. Allan, the steambarge was primarily engaged in transporting goods and passengers across the Great Lakes. Over the years, it underwent multiple ownership changes and rebuilds, adapting to the evolving demands of maritime commerce.
In 1870, the Bruno was heavily damaged and reported ashore on Chantry Island. However, the vessel was salvaged and underwent significant rebuilding in St. Catharines in 1880, which increased its dimensions and tonnage. This reconstruction allowed the Bruno to continue serving as a reliable carrier of goods, such as wheat, salt, and coal, under various owners, including H. McLennan & Co., Prentiss Roberts & Co., and Sylvester Hadley.
Despite its resilience, the Bruno’s final voyage ended in tragedy. On November 11, 1890, while carrying a load of coal and towing the schooner Louisa, the Bruno encountered heavy weather near Magnetic Reef in Georgian Bay. The adverse conditions led the vessel to strike the reef and foundered. While some reports suggest a collision, it is widely believed that the reef, coupled with the severe weather, was the primary cause of the wreck.
FINAL DISPOSITION:
The Bruno was deemed a total loss after it foundered on Magnetic Reef, south of Cockburn Island in Lake Huron. The vessel sank along with its cargo of coal. Fortunately, the crew managed to escape in a lifeboat, and no lives were lost in the incident. The wreck of the Bruno now lies submerged at Marquette Reef, a silent reminder of the perils of Great Lakes navigation.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES:
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the wreck site of the Bruno.
LOCATED BY & DATE:
The wreck of the Bruno has been known since its sinking in 1890, though detailed exploration and documentation of the site have been limited.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Bowling Green State University
- Great Lakes Ships
KEYWORDS:
Bruno, steambarge, Lake Huron shipwreck, Magnetic Reef, Great Lakes maritime history, 19th-century shipping, Georgian Bay, coal transport.
CONCLUSION:
The story of the steambarge Bruno is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by mariners navigating the Great Lakes during the 19th century. Despite multiple rebuilds and a long service life, the Bruno ultimately succumbed to the unpredictable forces of nature that have claimed so many vessels on these inland seas. The tale of its final journey, marked by a violent storm and a tragic sinking, underscores the bravery and resilience of the crew who survived, and the enduring legacy of the Bruno in the annals of Great Lakes maritime history.
