IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Cayuga was a wooden propeller steam tug, a crucial type of vessel in the mid-19th century maritime industry. Steam tugs like the Cayuga were essential for towing larger vessels, assisting in navigation, and providing various support services in busy harbors and along treacherous waterways. Powered by a single-cylinder engine and a single propeller, the Cayuga was designed for durability and reliability, capable of performing the demanding tasks required on Lake Huron.
HISTORY #
The Cayuga was built in 1864 in Geneva, New York, as a propeller-driven steam tug. With a gross tonnage of approximately 43 tons, it was designed to be a robust and reliable vessel, capable of handling the rigors of towing and assisting other ships on the Great Lakes. For two years, the Cayuga served as a vital workhorse on Lake Huron, playing an essential role in the regional maritime industry by helping larger vessels navigate the lake’s challenging waters.
However, in 1866, tragedy struck the Cayuga while it was docked in East Saginaw, Michigan, on the shores of Lake Huron. A fire broke out on board, rapidly consuming the wooden vessel. Despite efforts to control the flames, the fire quickly spread, engulfing the tug and leading to its total destruction. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident, as the crew managed to escape the burning vessel without injury. The Cayuga was not carrying any cargo at the time, which likely prevented further damage and loss.
The fire that destroyed the Cayuga highlights the inherent dangers faced by wooden vessels during this period. Fires were a constant threat to steam-powered ships, particularly those constructed from wood, which could ignite easily and burn rapidly. The loss of the Cayuga serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of such vessels to catastrophic accidents and the bravery of the crews who worked aboard them.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The Cayuga was completely destroyed by fire in 1866 while docked in East Saginaw, Michigan, on Lake Huron. The vessel was a total loss, and no efforts were made to salvage or rebuild it following the incident. The fire that consumed the Cayuga marked the end of its short but significant service on the Great Lakes.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The remains of the Cayuga have not been definitively located. The vessel was lost to a fire in 1866 in East Saginaw, Michigan, and any remnants of the wreck likely deteriorated over time or were cleared from the site.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the wreck of the Cayuga. However, East Saginaw and other areas of Lake Huron have a history of maritime incidents, and mariners should be cautious when navigating in areas known for historical wrecks.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Great Lakes Ships Database: Great Lakes Ships
CONCLUSION #
The tragic end of the steam tug Cayuga underscores the dangers inherent in maritime operations during the 19th century, particularly for wooden vessels powered by steam. Despite its brief service, the Cayuga played a vital role on Lake Huron, assisting in the navigation and safety of other ships. The fire that led to its total loss in 1866 serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by those who worked on the Great Lakes, and the story of the Cayuga remains a poignant chapter in the region’s maritime history.
KEYWORDS #
- Cayuga steam tug
- Lake Huron shipwreck
- East Saginaw Michigan
- Great Lakes maritime history
- 19th-century tugboat
- Wooden vessel fire
GPS COORDINATES & ADDITIONAL INFO #
Specific GPS coordinates for the wreck site of the Cayuga are not available. Further research and exploration may provide additional details regarding the location and condition of any remnants. Maritime historians and shipwreck enthusiasts should monitor ongoing research for any new information related to this historic vessel.
