1. IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
2. VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The Bay City began its life as a brig, a type of sailing vessel with two masts, often used for bulk freight transport on the Great Lakes. Built for durability and capacity, the Bay City was constructed with the strength needed to withstand the harsh conditions of Great Lakes shipping. In 1871, the vessel was converted from a brig to a barge, which involved reducing it to a single-masted vessel, indicating a shift in its function, likely related to the lumber trade in the Saginaw River region.
3. HISTORY #
The Bay City was launched in 1857 and was primarily used as a bulk freight carrier on the Great Lakes. Initially owned by H.D. Braddock of East Saginaw, Michigan, the vessel had a varied and eventful career. In 1858, it was dismasted during a storm on Lake Huron, but managed to make its way to Detroit for repairs. Later that same year, it ran aground on Point Pelee Reef while carrying grain but was successfully refloated without major damage.
Throughout its operational life, the Bay City changed ownership several times and underwent significant alterations, including a major re-measurement in 1864. By 1867, it was enrolled in Chicago and Buffalo, becoming a familiar sight in ports across the Great Lakes. The conversion to a barge in 1871 marked a new chapter for the Bay City, as it was primarily used in the Saginaw River lumber trade from that point forward.
4. FINAL DISPOSITION #
On November 29, 1902, the Bay City met its final fate when it was left anchored in Thunder Bay by the steamer Huron City. A severe storm caused the anchor chains to break, driving the Bay City against the Gilchrist dock. The impact caused extensive damage to the vessel, rendering it a total wreck. Although the crew managed to abandon ship, the Bay City could not be salvaged and was ultimately abandoned in Alpena, Michigan, ending its long career.
5. NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to the wreck of the Bay City.
6. LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck of the Bay City is located off the coast of Alpena, Michigan, in Thunder Bay. It was not refloated after its wrecking and has remained in its final resting place since 1902.
7. CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY #
The Bay City is a part of the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary, an area known for its significant number of shipwrecks. The vessel’s remains are considered accessible to divers, although the condition of the wreck may be deteriorated due to its age and exposure to the elements. Divers should approach with caution and respect for the historical significance of the site.
8. RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Great Lakes Ships
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary
- YouTube – Bay City Shipwreck
- Michigan Preserves
9. ADDITIONAL NOTES #
The Bay City’s history highlights the challenging conditions faced by vessels on the Great Lakes during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its transition from a brig to a barge reflects the evolving needs of maritime trade during that period, particularly in the lumber industry. The vessel’s final wrecking in Thunder Bay underscores the dangers of Great Lakes shipping, especially during the stormy fall season.
10. DIVING NOTES & RECOMMENDATIONS #
The wreck of the Bay City, now part of the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary, is accessible to divers interested in exploring historical shipwrecks. Due to its historical significance and the presence of other wrecks in the area, it is recommended that divers contact local dive shops or the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary for guided dives and detailed site information. Divers should be mindful of the delicate nature of the wreck and avoid disturbing the site.
TAGS #
- Great Lakes Shipwreck
- Bay City
- Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary
- Alpena, Michigan
- 19th Century Maritime History
- Great Lakes Brig
- Saginaw River Lumber Trade
- Maritime Transportation
- Storm Wreck
CONCLUSION #
The Bay City represents a significant chapter in the history of Great Lakes maritime transportation. From its construction in 1857 to its final resting place in Thunder Bay, the vessel’s journey reflects the resilience of the maritime industry during a time of great change and development in the region. Although the Bay City now lies in ruins, its story continues to be told through the remnants preserved within the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary, offering a glimpse into the past for divers and historians alike.
