IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: The Bayport was a steel-hulled, steam-powered tugboat, initially named Fairport, built for the Great Lakes Towing Company. Tugboats like the Bayport played critical roles in towing, icebreaking, and assisting larger vessels in harbors and along the Great Lakes. The Bayport was later converted to oil power after its recovery.
HISTORY: The tugboat began its life in 1914 as the Fairport, constructed by the Great Lakes Towing Company in Cleveland, Ohio. It was equipped with a reinforced bow for icebreaking and served primarily in the Great Lakes region. In the winter of 1941, the vessel was sold to Canadian owners, renamed Bayport, and operated out of Midland, Ontario. Here, it played a vital role in breaking ice for grain-carrying bulkers during harsh winter months.
The Bayport was transferred to Canada Steamship Lines, Ltd. in 1943, continuing its service in various roles. However, on June 22, 1959, while attempting to take a line from the steamer Captain C.D. Secord near Collingwood, Ontario, the Bayport encountered a tragic accident. The tug became entangled with its own tow cable, leading to its capsizing and sinking. Sadly, three out of the six crew members aboard lost their lives.
Despite the tragedy, the Bayport was raised and underwent significant repairs and modifications. During the winter of 1959-1960, it was converted from steam to oil power, ensuring its continued service on the Great Lakes. The vessel was renamed Tug A in 1962 and later Twin Port in 1963, reflecting its evolving roles and ownership.
FINAL DISPOSITION: The Bayport met its initial end on June 22, 1959, when it capsized and sank near Collingwood, Ontario, on Lake Huron, resulting in the loss of three crew members. The tug was later raised, repaired, and converted to oil power, allowing it to return to service under different names until the late 1970s.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the wreck site of the Bayport.
LOCATED BY & DATE: The wreck was located shortly after the sinking in June 1959, and the vessel was subsequently raised and repaired.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
KEYWORDS: Bayport, Fairport, tugboat, Great Lakes shipwreck, Collingwood, Lake Huron, Canada Steamship Lines, maritime history, Great Lakes Towing Company.
CONCLUSION: The story of the Bayport, from its construction as the Fairport to its tragic sinking and remarkable recovery, exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of the maritime industry on the Great Lakes. The vessel’s ability to return to service after such a significant loss underscores the determination of those who worked tirelessly to ensure its legacy endured. The Bayport’s tale is a testament to the enduring spirit of maritime operations, highlighting the risks faced by crews and the relentless effort to salvage and rebuild valuable vessels.
