Identification & Site Information #
Vessel Type Description #
The Roswell P. Flower was a large bulk freighter, primarily used for transporting goods across the Great Lakes. Constructed with a wooden hull, single deck, and reinforced bow, it was a robust vessel built for heavy cargo, especially grain. It was equipped with a powerful compound engine and screw propulsion, making it one of the more advanced freighters of its time. Its four masts and significant carrying capacity of 2400 tons highlighted its role as a critical player in Great Lakes shipping during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
History #
The Roswell P. Flower was built in 1887 by Wolf & Davidson in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for the Milwaukee Steamship Co. This bulk freighter was designed to carry heavy cargoes such as grain and other bulk goods across the vast and often treacherous waters of the Great Lakes. The ship’s initial operations involved towing barges like the Donaldson and C.P. Grover, showcasing its strength and versatility in the shipping industry.
Throughout its career, the Roswell P. Flower experienced several incidents. It grounded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on April 21, 1887, and again near Cedar Point shoal above Points aux Pins, Ontario, in Lake Erie on July 14, 1890. A significant wreck occurred in 1892 when the vessel struck a reef near Waugoschance Point in the western Straits of Mackinac, but it was salvaged and returned to service.
In 1915, the vessel underwent a name change to Agnes W. after being acquired by John D. Wanvig et al. in Milwaukee. The ship continued its operations under new ownership, and in 1918, it was owned by D.W. Stocking in Duluth, Minnesota.
Final Disposition #
The Roswell P. Flower met its tragic end on July 3, 1918. While attempting to enter the St. Mary’s River during a storm, the ship stranded at Canada Point, Drummond Island, in Lake Huron. Despite efforts to salvage the vessel, the relentless storm pounded it to pieces, and the ship was lost. The final cargo aboard the ship was grain, which was never delivered to its intended destination.
NOTMARs & Advisories #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically associated with the Roswell P. Flower wreck site. However, divers should be cautious due to the shallow depth of the wreck and potential for strong currents in the area, especially during adverse weather conditions.
Located By & Date #
The wreck of the Roswell P. Flower is well-documented and can be explored by divers. It lies in shallow waters near Canada Point, Drummond Island, Lake Huron, making it an accessible site for divers interested in Great Lakes maritime history.
Resources & Links #
- Great Lakes Maritime History
- Bowling Green State University – Great Lakes Vessel Database
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Visit Drummond Island
Conclusion #
The Roswell P. Flower, later known as Agnes W., played a vital role in the maritime trade across the Great Lakes. Built for durability and strength, this bulk freighter was a significant asset to its various owners throughout its career. Unfortunately, the ship’s life ended in tragedy when it succumbed to the forces of nature near Drummond Island in 1918. Today, the wreck of the Roswell P. Flower serves as a poignant reminder of the perils faced by ships navigating the Great Lakes and stands as an accessible site for divers to explore and reflect on the rich maritime history of the region.
Keywords: #
- Great Lakes
- Lake Huron
- Shipwreck
- Bulk Freighter
- Roswell P. Flower
- Agnes W.
- Maritime History
- Drummond Island
- Shipwreck Diving
- Great Lakes Maritime Heritage
