Other names
- Hull 100
- CHICAGO 1
The steamship CHICAGO, officially registered as 127590, was a propeller-type vessel made of steel. It was built in Buffalo, New York, by the Buffalo Ship Building Co. in 1901. The ship had a length of 324 feet, a width of 44 feet, and a depth of 14 feet. It had a gross tonnage of 3,195 tons and a net tonnage of 2,546 tons.
On October 23, 1929, the CHICAGO encountered a powerful storm while sailing on Lake Superior near Michipicoten Island. The vessel was carrying mixed freight at the time. As the storm intensified, the ship was battered by strong waves, causing it to run aground and sustain heavy damage. The impact of the grounding caused the bow to lift high on the rocks and partially submerge the stern.
Despite the crew’s efforts to salvage the vessel, the CHICAGO’s condition deteriorated. The storm continued to pound the ship, causing flooding in the holds and a severe list. By December 19, 1929, during salvage operations, the wreck slid off the rocks and sank into deep water. The sinking of the CHICAGO marked its final disposition.
Fortunately, there were no reported fatalities among the 31 crew members aboard the vessel during the incident. The crew had made the decision to evacuate the ship and take refuge on Michipicoten Island, enduring the harsh conditions until they were eventually rescued by the Coast Guard.
The CHICAGO had a significant history of operating in the Great Lakes region, primarily engaged in freight service. It was owned by the Western Transit Co. until 1916 when it was transferred to the Great Lakes Transit Corporation. The ship played a vital role in transporting goods between Buffalo, New York, and ports on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior.
The loss of the CHICAGO serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by sailors navigating the unpredictable waters of the Great Lakes. The shipwreck is a testament to the power of storms and the challenges inherent in maritime operations.
