Identification & Site Information #
Vessel Type Description #
The C.W. Armstrong was a wooden-hulled propeller steam tug built for towing operations. Steam tugs like the C.W. Armstrong were essential during the 19th century for guiding larger vessels through harbors, rivers, and along the Great Lakes. These versatile vessels were typically smaller and robustly built to handle the challenging conditions of the Great Lakes. The C.W. Armstrong was a classic example of these hardworking tugs, measuring 57 feet in length, making it a relatively small but powerful asset for its time.
History #
The C.W. Armstrong was constructed in 1856 in Albany, New York, and was primarily used for towing purposes throughout its operational life. It had a storied career with a mix of successes and unfortunate incidents.
In June 1856, shortly after it was built, the C.W. Armstrong experienced a significant setback when its boiler exploded near Erie, Pennsylvania. This tragic incident resulted in the loss of a crew member’s life. Despite the damage, the vessel was repaired and returned to service, continuing its towing operations on the Great Lakes.
Throughout its years of service, the C.W. Armstrong changed ownership multiple times. Some of its known owners included M.B. Kean of Detroit, Michigan, W.C. Roberts of Cottrellville, Michigan, Duncan McGregor of Algonac, Michigan, and C.M. Little of East Saginaw, Michigan. Each owner likely employed the tug in various towing tasks along the lakes and rivers of Michigan.
The C.W. Armstrong’s final demise came on November 21, 1870, while it was docked at Bay City in the Saginaw River, Lake Huron. A fire broke out aboard the vessel, originating from an escaped boiler fire, which eventually consumed the tug. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in this incident. However, this marked the end of the C.W. Armstrong’s service on the Great Lakes.
There is some confusion in historical records regarding another potential fire incident in January 1879. It is unclear whether this refers to the same vessel, possibly recovered after the 1870 fire, or another vessel with a similar name. What is known is that by May 1879, the documents for the C.W. Armstrong were surrendered at Port Huron, Michigan, signaling the official end of the vessel’s career.
Final Disposition #
The C.W. Armstrong met its end in the waters of the Saginaw River, where it sank after being consumed by fire in 1870. The exact location of the wreck is within the river near Bay City, Michigan, in Lake Huron. The vessel’s final years were marked by this unfortunate fire, which ultimately rendered the tug a total loss.
NOTMARs & Advisories #
- Current Status: There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the C.W. Armstrong wreck site. The wreck location in the Saginaw River may have been cleared over time due to navigational requirements in the area.
Located By & Date #
- Discovery: The wreckage of the C.W. Armstrong has not been widely documented or explored. Specific discovery records are not available.
Resources & Links #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: Shipwreck Records
- Great Lakes Ships: Great Lakes Ships Database
Conclusion #
The C.W. Armstrong served as a reliable steam tug on the Great Lakes for nearly 15 years. Despite enduring challenges like a boiler explosion early in its career, the vessel continued to operate under various owners, providing valuable towing services. Its eventual loss to fire in the Saginaw River marks a common end for many wooden vessels of its time, which were often vulnerable to such incidents. The story of the C.W. Armstrong offers a glimpse into the lives of the hardworking tugs that once plied the waters of the Great Lakes, essential yet often overlooked components of maritime history.
Keywords: #
- C.W. Armstrong
- Steam Tug
- Great Lakes Shipwreck
- Saginaw River
- Lake Huron
- 19th Century Maritime History
The C.W. Armstrong’s legacy, though not widely known, contributes to the broader narrative of Great Lakes maritime history, illustrating the vital roles these vessels played in the economic and industrial development of the region.
