Other Names
- ANNIE L. CRAIG
The story of the steamer CITY OF WINNIPEG is both tragic and intriguing, providing a glimpse into the history of maritime transportation and the challenges faced by vessels of that era. The details you’ve shared about the ship’s construction, its activities, and its unfortunate demise paint a vivid picture of the events surrounding its loss.
The vessel’s transformation from being built as the propeller ANNIE L. CRAIG to becoming the CITY OF WINNIPEG highlights the changes that ships underwent in terms of ownership and identity during their lifetimes. Its official number, specifications, and subsequent sale to Canadian ownership in 1878 showcase its role in trade and transportation.
The account of the ship’s loss due to a fire at the Northern Pacific Railway Dock in Duluth is both tragic and heroic. The crew’s efforts to save passengers, even at the risk of their own lives, speak to their dedication and bravery. The description of the fire rapidly consuming the vessel is chilling, and the loss of four crew members and the cargo of whiskey and horses is a somber reminder of the dangers faced by those who navigated these waters.
The reactions of passengers, the swift response of the fire department, and the efforts to salvage belongings in the midst of chaos give a sense of the chaotic scene during the disaster. The subsequent sale and attempts to raise the sunken hulk, as well as the history of the whiskey cargo, add intriguing layers to the story.
