Title: The Story of the CLARENCE: A Tragic End for a Lake Superior Fish Tug
In the annals of maritime history, tales of vessels meeting their untimely demise often evoke a mix of fascination and sorrow. The story of the CLARENCE, also known as CLARENCE E, is one such account that highlights the risks and challenges faced by mariners on the Great Lakes. This gas propeller fish tug, built in 1930 at Bayfield, Wisconsin, found itself engulfed in a tragic fire that led to its total destruction on June 30, 1938, in Superior, Wisconsin.
A Glimpse into the CLARENCE’s History
The CLARENCE was no ordinary vessel; it was a dedicated gas propeller fish tug, crafted to navigate the waters of Lake Superior. Measuring 34 feet in length, with a width of 10 feet and a depth of 5 feet, this small yet essential vessel boasted a gross tonnage of 13 tons. Its significance lay in its role as a fish tug, a vessel designed for fishing expeditions and the hauling of fishing gear.
The Fateful Day: A Tragic Turn of Events
On that fateful day in 1938, as the CLARENCE prepared for another day on the waters of Lake Superior, tragedy struck. A seemingly innocuous event—a short in the tug’s engine while starting—set off a chain reaction that would ultimately lead to disaster. The electrical malfunction triggered a sudden explosion, igniting a fire that spread rapidly throughout the vessel.
The crew of the CLARENCE found themselves in a dire situation as the fire intensified, consuming the tug with a relentless fury. Despite their efforts, the flames grew too fierce to control, and the vessel was soon engulfed in a blazing inferno. The fire’s intensity was such that the CLARENCE burned down to the waterline, leaving behind only charred remnants and a poignant reminder of its tragic end.
No Escape from the Devastation
Amidst the chaos of the fire, one ray of hope emerged: the crew managed to escape the vessel unharmed. Despite the harrowing circumstances, there were no reported casualties among the crew members. While the loss of the vessel was undoubtedly a blow, the preservation of human life stands as a testament to the crew’s quick thinking and courage in the face of adversity.
The Aftermath and Reflection
The CLARENCE’s story is a somber reminder of the risks faced by mariners and fishermen who brave the unpredictable waters of the Great Lakes. The incident sheds light on the challenges presented by gas-powered vessels, where even a minor electrical malfunction can have catastrophic consequences. As the tug succumbed to the flames, it also highlighted the fragility of vessels in the face of powerful natural forces.
The CLARENCE was owned by the Bayfield Fish Company and was based in Duluth. Its tragic end serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and challenges endured by those who relied on these vessels for their livelihoods. While the CLARENCE may have met its end in Superior, its story lives on as a testament to the resilience and spirit of those who navigate the unpredictable waters of the Great Lakes.
As we remember the CLARENCE and the countless vessels that have shaped the history of maritime trade and exploration, we are reminded of the profound connection between humans and the seas—a connection marked by triumphs, tragedies, and the enduring legacy of vessels like the CLARENCE.
