Steam barge to Fiery Demise
The Bay City, originally built in 1867 as a wood steam barge, played a vital role in the bustling lumber trade on the Detroit River. This propeller vessel, measuring 152 feet in length, 27 feet in beam, and 14 feet in depth, transported vast quantities of white pine lumber. However, its story took a tragic turn on June 6, 1891, when a devastating fire consumed the vessel while it was undergoing repairs at the foot of Rivard Street in River Rouge, Michigan. Join us as we explore the life and untimely demise of the Bay City.
Constructed by George Gardiner in Marine City, Michigan, in 1867, the Bay City was initially owned by A. Rust, George Butlin, and William Kelley of East Saginaw, Michigan. Designed specifically for the lumber trade, the vessel had a gross tonnage of 372 and net tonnage of 295. It featured a single mast and a high-pressure steam engine built by David Bell in Buffalo.
The Bay City faced adversity early in its career. In April 1871, shortly after being rebuilt, the vessel caught fire and burned nearly to the waterline during its first trip out. Despite this setback, the Bay City was raised, repaired, and came under the ownership of Burt & Co. from Marine City, Michigan. It continued its operations in the lumber industry.
The vessel underwent major repairs in 1879, which included rebuilding the deck and mast. These efforts aimed to enhance the Bay City’s seaworthiness and increase its carrying capacity. The vessel emerged from the repairs looking significantly altered, with higher sides and an improved appearance.
On the night of June 6, 1891, disaster struck the Bay City once again. While undergoing repairs at the foot of Rivard Street in River Rouge, Michigan, a fire broke out on board. The vessel’s watchman promptly reported the fire, and firemen initially believed they had extinguished it. However, the fire reignited and raged out of control, reducing the Bay City to a total wreck. The vessel was completely consumed by the flames.
Fortunately, no lives were lost in the fire. However, the Bay City’s cargo of 300,000 feet of white pine lumber was lost along with the vessel. The charred remains of the Bay City sank and were ultimately abandoned at the Riverside Ironworks dock on the Detroit River.
The Bay City’s tragic fate marked the end of its active service. Its contributions to the lumber trade and transportation on the Detroit River will be remembered. Despite its untimely demise, the Bay City leaves behind a story of resilience and the indomitable spirit of the vessels that navigated the Great Lakes during the height of the lumber industry.
