The CITY OF THE STRAITS, initially known as a barkentine and later converted to a schooner-barge, had a significant presence on the waters of Lake Superior during its years of service. Here’s a comprehensive article detailing the history and events surrounding the CITY OF THE STRAITS:
Built in 1866 by J. M. Jones in Detroit, Michigan, the CITY OF THE STRAITS started its maritime journey as a barkentine under the ownership of J. E. Dilman. The vessel measured 134 feet in length, 29.4 feet in width, and had a depth of 11.5 feet, making it a substantial presence on the water. Its gross tonnage was 392, with a net tonnage of 376.
The name “City of the Straits” held a special significance as it referred to the nickname of Detroit, the bustling city where the vessel was constructed. Over the years, the CITY OF THE STRAITS underwent various changes, both in terms of ownership and role.
In 1872, the vessel encountered an incident when it struck its centerboard in the Detroit River. The subsequent years saw shifts in ownership, with the vessel being owned by Rice and others in Buffalo, New York. It was during this time that the vessel transitioned from a barkentine to a schooner-barge configuration, adapting to the evolving demands of maritime trade.
The year 1882 marked a significant moment in the vessel’s history. A collision with the R.N. RICE off Harrisville in Lake Huron led to major damage. The vessel underwent repairs, reflecting the determination of its owners to restore and preserve its maritime legacy.
As the decades passed, the CITY OF THE STRAITS continued to navigate the waters, often being towed by various steamers such as ALPENA and TEMPEST. Its roles varied, from carrying cargo to supporting towing operations. However, tragedy struck in 1896.
On August 26, 1896, the CITY OF THE STRAITS faced its final and most devastating challenge. The vessel was tied to Mercer’s dock at Ontonagon, Michigan, when a city-wide fire engulfed the area. The inferno, which consumed the city of Ontonagon, extended its destructive reach to the vessel. The fire ultimately destroyed the CITY OF THE STRAITS, ending its long and eventful maritime journey.
Despite the loss of the vessel, there was a silver lining – no lives were lost in the incident. The CITY OF THE STRAITS, which had witnessed the changing landscape of Great Lakes trade and navigation, left a lasting mark on maritime history.
From its construction in Detroit to its final moments at Ontonagon, the vessel’s story intertwines with the dynamic and sometimes challenging world of 19th-century maritime trade and transport. The CITY OF THE STRAITS serves as a reminder of the resilience of sailors, the significance of maritime commerce, and the indelible impact of vessels on the historical tapestry of the Great Lakes region.
