HELENA
The Helena, also known as the Amboy, was a schooner-barge that was built in 1874 in Cleveland, Ohio. Constructed by Quayle & Martin, the vessel was originally owned by the Cleveland Transportation Company, a part of Hanna-Garretson’s “Black Fleet.” With a length of 205.4 feet, a beam of 34.2 feet, and a depth of 14.4 feet, the Helena had a gross tonnage of 863.93.
The Helena had a single deck and was primarily propelled by sails, with three masts. Throughout its history, it served as a consort to the screw bulk freighter Havana, which was built in 1873. The Helena played a role in various trade routes, including the Ashland ore trade, where it was towed by the Havana. Over the years, the Helena encountered several accidents and incidents, including collisions, sinkings, and groundings.
In an unfortunate turn of events, the Helena met its final fate on November 28, 1905. While being towed by the steamer George Spencer near Thomasville, Minnesota (possibly in Ontario), the Helena struggled against a powerful gale for a full day. Despite their efforts, the vessel eventually went ashore and broke up. The final cargo aboard the Helena was coal.
The wreck of the Helena serves as a reminder of the challenging conditions faced by sailors on Lake Superior. Today, the remains of the Helena rest in the vicinity of Thomasville, a testament to the rich maritime history and the perils of navigating the Great Lakes.
