The Detroit Dry-dock Company successfully introduced the brand-new steamer “ALGOMAH” for the Detroit, Marquette and Mackinac Railway Company. This vessel embarked on its inaugural journey along the river, showcasing its remarkable performance and capabilities. The primary purpose of the “ALGOMAH” was to serve as a ferry in conjunction with the Detroit, Marquette and Mackinac Railway, specifically catering to the transportation needs at the Straits of Mackinac. What made the “ALGOMAH” stand out was its innovative ice-breaking design, ensuring uninterrupted operation even during the winter months when icy conditions prevailed.
Constructed with precision and attention to detail, the “ALGOMAH” boasted the following specifications: a length of 127.0 feet, a beam of 33.0 feet, and a depth of 11.1 feet. Its robust engine, a fore-and-aft compound engine featuring cylinders measuring 21 and 37 x 36, efficiently powered its operations. This power was harnessed by an Otis steel boiler, which measured 8 feet 6 inches in shell diameter and 16 feet in length with a half-inch thickness. Notably, the vessel’s construction enabled it to navigate through icy waters, making it well-suited for its intended role.
The vessel’s interior was designed for comfort and convenience. The promenade deck featured a spacious general cabin adorned with carpets and furnished with chairs and settees. Additional facilities included a commodious dining room, a dedicated ladies’ cabin and washroom, a general washroom, a pantry, a kitchen, and accommodations for the crew during inclement weather. The vessel’s pilot house was located on the hurricane deck, ensuring optimal visibility for navigation.
The “ALGOMAH” commenced its operations under the command of Captain A.A. Kirby, with James N. Riley serving as the mate and E. Saunders as the engineer. During its trial voyage, the vessel demonstrated impressive performance, achieving a speed of fifteen miles per hour with ease.
Interestingly, there was a discrepancy in the 1885 Merchant Vessel List, which inaccurately classified the “ALGOMAH” as a steam paddle. In reality, the vessel was equipped with steam screw propulsion. The vessel continued its service until it was eventually converted into a barge in 1940. Subsequently, its documentation was removed in 1944, marking the end of its storied maritime history.
Sources:
- The J.W. Hall Great Lakes Marine Scrapbook, October/November, 1881
- Detroit/Wyandotte Master Shipbuilding List, Institute for Great Lakes research, Perrysburg, Ohio
- Merchant Vessel List, U. S., 1885
