Identification & Site Information #
- Vessel Name: MAPLEGULF (formerly PAWNEE)
- Vessel Type: Wooden Steam Barge
- Depth: Unknown (wrecked on Lake Ontario)
- Location: Lake Ontario
- Coordinates: Not specified
- Year Built: 1888
- Built At: Marine City, Michigan
- Hull Materials: Wood
- Builder: Not specified
- Original Owner: Toledo and Saginaw Transportation Co.
- Dimensions:
- Length: 174 feet (US measurement) / 175.1 feet (Canadian measurement)
- Beam (Width): Not specified
- Depth: Not specified
- Gross Tonnage: 639.9 tons (US measurement) / 621 tons (Canadian measurement)
- Net Tonnage: 475.02 tons (US measurement) / 453 tons (Canadian measurement)
- Engine Type: Compound Steeple Engine
- Horsepower: 80 HP
Vessel Type Description #
The MAPLEGULF was originally built as the PAWNEE, a wooden steam barge constructed in Marine City, Michigan, in 1888. The vessel was designed with a well deck, steel arches, and a reinforced bow for ice protection, reflecting its intended use in challenging conditions on the Great Lakes. The barge was powered by a compound steeple engine producing 80 horsepower, making it a robust vessel for its time.
History #
The PAWNEE began its career under the ownership of the Toledo and Saginaw Transportation Co., entering service in 1889. Over the years, the vessel changed hands several times, reflecting its ongoing utility in Great Lakes shipping.
1889: The PAWNEE was sold to Curtis and Brainerd of Toledo, Ohio, and entered service for them.
1900: The PAWNEE ran aground on Gull Island Reef while towing three barges, an incident that marked one of the significant challenges in its operational history. Notably, two of the barges involved, J.R. EDWARDS and MINNIE E. ORTON, would later be owned by the Montreal Transportation Co.
1910: The vessel underwent extensive repairs, ensuring its continued service in the demanding environment of the Great Lakes.
1919: The PAWNEE was acquired by Canada Steamship Lines, although the details of this transaction vary according to different sources. Some reports suggest the vessel was purchased from the Reid Wrecking Co., while others indicate it was acquired through the Port Huron, Michigan branch of the firm. The Canadian Railway & Marine World reported in June 1920 that the PAWNEE was bought by the Montreal Transportation Co. from H. McMorran of Michigan.
1920: Under the name MAPLEGULF, the vessel was operated by Canada Steamship Lines. Despite the confusion over the exact ownership details, it is clear that the MAPLEGULF was an integral part of the shipping operations on the Great Lakes during this period.
Final Voyage and Wreck #
On November 15, 1920, while navigating Lake Ontario, the MAPLEGULF encountered a severe storm that ultimately led to its demise. The vessel “broke its back,” a term used to describe a structural failure often caused by the flexing and twisting of a ship in rough seas. The catastrophic damage caused the MAPLEGULF to wreck. The remains of the vessel were later scrapped, marking the end of its service life.
Final Disposition #
- Date of Loss: November 15, 1920
- Cause of Loss: Structural failure during a storm (broke its back)
- Crew: Not specified
- Salvage Operations: The wreck was later scrapped.
Tags #
- Shipwreck
- Steam Barge
- Lake Ontario
- Wooden Vessel
- 19th Century Vessel
- Maritime History
- Great Lakes Shipwreck
- MAPLEGULF
- PAWNEE
Conclusion #
The MAPLEGULF, initially launched as the PAWNEE in 1888, serves as a historical marker of the evolution and challenges of maritime trade on the Great Lakes. From its construction in Marine City, Michigan, to its eventual wreck in Lake Ontario, the vessel’s journey reflects the dynamic and often perilous nature of Great Lakes shipping. The MAPLEGULF‘s loss in 1920 underscores the constant threat posed by the region’s unpredictable weather, which has claimed many ships over the centuries. Despite its tragic end, the vessel’s story contributes to the rich tapestry of maritime history that defines the Great Lakes.
