1. IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
2. VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Anna Ruth, originally built as the American Favorite in 1920, was a propeller tug and packet vessel constructed by M.B. Petersen in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. Weighing 27 tons, the vessel was versatile, serving both as a tugboat, likely involved in towing operations, and as a packet boat for transporting passengers or cargo. The vessel was known by several names throughout its history, including Anne Ruth and Ruth Anne, though it was officially registered under the name Anna Ruth in 1926.
3. HISTORY #
The Anna Ruth had a varied and eventful history on the Great Lakes. Initially launched as the American Favorite in 1920, the vessel was renamed Anna Ruth in 1926. During its service, the Anna Ruth operated as both a tugboat and packet vessel, contributing to the transportation and maritime operations on Lake Superior.
In 1926, the Anna Ruth was sold to the Pigeon Timber Company, based in Port Arthur, Ontario. The vessel played a crucial role in supporting the lumber industry, transporting fuel and supplies to remote lumber camps.
Tragedy struck on December 9, 1928, when the Anna Ruth was engulfed in a devastating fire near Edward Island in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The vessel was carrying fuel and supplies destined for a lumber camp at the time of the incident. Despite the total destruction of the vessel, there were no reported casualties or loss of life. The remains of the Anna Ruth were abandoned in Pringle’s Bay, where they still rest today.
4. FINAL DISPOSITION #
The Anna Ruth was lost to a fire on December 9, 1928, while operating near Edward Island in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Lake Superior. The vessel was completely destroyed by the fire, and its remains were left in Pringle’s Bay. The loss of the Anna Ruth marked the end of its service life, with the wreck remaining at the site as a reminder of the tragedy.
5. NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) or advisories specifically related to the wreck of the Anna Ruth. Mariners navigating in Pringle’s Bay near Edward Island should be aware of the historical wreck site and potential underwater hazards.
6. LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck of the Anna Ruth is located in Pringle’s Bay, near Edward Island in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Lake Superior. The specific date of the wreck’s discovery is not provided, but the site has been known since the time of the vessel’s loss in 1928.
7. CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The condition of the Anna Ruth’s wreck is not documented in available records. Given the nature of the fire that destroyed the vessel, it is likely that the wreck is severely deteriorated. The remains are located in Pringle’s Bay, and further exploration would be required to assess the current state of the wreck.
8. RESOURCES & LINKS #
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Website
9. ADDITIONAL NOTES #
The loss of the Anna Ruth serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by vessels operating on the Great Lakes. The vessel’s role in supporting the lumber industry and its tragic end reflect the challenging conditions of maritime operations in the early 20th century. The wreck remains in Pringle’s Bay, a testament to the vessel’s history and the resilience of those who worked on the Great Lakes.
10. DIVING NOTES & RECOMMENDATIONS #
Due to the limited information on the depth and condition of the Anna Ruth’s wreck, diving details are not readily available. However, if the site were to be explored, it would likely require advanced diving skills due to the potential deterioration of the wreck and the historical significance of the site. Divers should approach the site with caution and respect.
TAGS #
- Lake Superior
- 20th Century
- Tugboat
- Packet Vessel
- Maritime History
- Shipwreck
CONCLUSION #
The Anna Ruth, formerly known as the American Favorite, played an important role as a tug and packet vessel on Lake Superior before meeting its tragic end in a fire in 1928. The vessel’s history, marked by its service to the lumber industry and its eventual loss, highlights the challenges faced by maritime operations on the Great Lakes. The wreck of the Anna Ruth remains in Pringle’s Bay, serving as a silent witness to the vessel’s past.
