Identification & Site Information #
Vessel Type Description #
The Roswell P. Flower was a substantial bulk freighter constructed in the late 19th century, designed primarily for transporting large quantities of cargo, particularly grain, across the Great Lakes. Built with a wooden hull and a reinforced bow, it was a robust vessel capable of navigating the often treacherous waters of the lakes. Equipped with a powerful engine and screw propulsion system, the Roswell P. Flower could manage significant loads and was a critical part of the shipping network at the time.
History #
The Roswell P. Flower, originally launched in 1887, had a career punctuated by various incidents, reflecting the hazards of maritime navigation during that era. Initially owned by the Milwaukee Steamship Company, the vessel was employed in the grain trade, a vital industry for the economy of the Great Lakes region.
Throughout its operational history, the Roswell P. Flower encountered numerous challenges. In its early years, the freighter ran aground several times: first in Milwaukee shortly after its launch, and later in 1890 on Cedar Point shoal above Points aux Pins in Lake Erie. In 1892, the vessel was wrecked on a reef near Waugoschance Point in the Straits of Mackinac, demonstrating the continual risks faced by ships navigating these waters.
Despite these setbacks, the vessel continued its service, towing barges such as the Donaldson, C.P. Grover, and Lem Ellsworth, and changing ownership multiple times. In March 1915, under new ownership by John D. Wanvig, the ship was renamed Agnes W., and by May 1918, it had been acquired by D.W. Stocking of Duluth, Minnesota.
The Roswell P. Flower’s final voyage took place in July 1918, during which it attempted to enter the St. Mary’s River during a storm. The vessel, laden with grain, stranded at Canada Point on Drummond Island, Lake Huron. Despite efforts to save the freighter, it was pounded by the storm until it broke apart and sank, marking the end of its service.
Final Disposition #
The wreck of the Roswell P. Flower (also known as Agnes W.) now lies in shallow water, just 15 feet deep, near Traverse Point on the south side of Drummond Island in Lake Huron. The vessel’s lower hull remains largely intact, with a length of approximately 180 feet and a width of 35 feet. The wreckage is scattered among large rocks, making it accessible yet potentially hazardous to approach.
NOTMARs & Advisories #
- Current Status: The site is accessible to divers, snorkelers, and kayakers. Due to the shallow depth and rocky surroundings, it is advised to approach the site cautiously, especially in calm weather conditions.
Located By & Date #
- Discovery: The wreck has been well-known locally since its sinking and is frequently visited by divers and marine historians.
Resources & Links #
- Great Lakes Ships: Ship Information
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: Shipwreck Records
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Explore Maritime History
- Visit Drummond Island: Tourist Information
Conclusion #
The Roswell P. Flower (later known as the Agnes W.) serves as a poignant reminder of the perilous nature of Great Lakes shipping in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The wreck, lying in shallow water near Drummond Island, offers a unique opportunity for exploration and study. Its history of repeated groundings and eventual destruction in a storm highlights the resilience required by vessels and their crews in navigating these waters. The site continues to attract divers and history enthusiasts, providing a tangible connection to the region’s maritime past.
Keywords: #
- Roswell P. Flower
- Agnes W.
- Great Lakes Shipwrecks
- Lake Huron Wrecks
- Drummond Island Shipwreck
- Bulk Freighter
- 19th Century Shipping
- Great Lakes Maritime History
