This historical paper recounts the life and tragic demise of the steam ferry OMAR D. CONGER. Built in 1882, the ferry served as a vital link between Port Huron, Michigan, and Sarnia, Ontario, for many years. The narrative explores the vessel’s construction, specifications, and notable events during its service. The paper focuses on the catastrophic boiler explosion that occurred on March 26, 1922, leading to the loss of four lives and extensive damage. The explosion’s cause, whether due to an unattended boiler or ignited cargo of explosives, is examined within the context of local testimonies and historical records.
- Introduction:
The steam ferry OMAR D. CONGER, a vital connection between Port Huron, Michigan, and Sarnia, Ontario, met a tragic end on March 26, 1922. This paper recounts the vessel’s history, specifications, and its ill-fated final moments due to a catastrophic boiler explosion that caused significant loss of life and damage. - Construction and Specifications:
Built in 1882 by George Hardison in Port Huron, the OMAR D. CONGER was a wooden propeller ferry with a passenger and package capacity. It measured 92.2 feet in length, 26 feet in width, and 11 feet in depth, with a gross tonnage of 200 and net tonnage of 159. The ferry was equipped with a high-pressure engine and a single boiler, propelling it through its routes. - Years of Service and Incidents:
Throughout its service, the OMAR D. CONGER connected Port Huron and Sarnia, contributing to local transportation and trade. The ferry operated alongside vessels like the GRACE DORMER and JAS. BEARD. In 1891, the original owners, D. N. Runnels and James Moffat, incorporated the Port Huron & Sarnia Ferry Co. to manage the vessel. The ferry faced challenges, such as getting stuck in ice in 1893 with passengers on board, and a fire at Black River dock in 1901, which led to its reconstruction. - The Tragic Explosion and Loss of Lives:
On March 26, 1922, tragedy struck the OMAR D. CONGER when a devastating boiler explosion occurred while docked on Black River, Port Huron. The explosion’s force was so immense that debris, including parts of the vessel’s upperworks and engine, was scattered throughout Port Huron. Four lives were tragically lost in the explosion, leaving a mark of sorrow on the vessel’s legacy. - Uncovering the Cause:
The exact cause of the boiler explosion was a subject of speculation and investigation. Local residents attributed it to an unattended boiler, while some accounts suggested that an unregistered cargo of explosives ignited, intensifying the blast. Historical records highlight the confusion surrounding the explosion’s origin. - Conclusion:
The steam ferry OMAR D. CONGER, which had served as a vital link between Port Huron and Sarnia for decades, met a tragic end due to a devastating boiler explosion on March 26, 1922. The loss of lives and extensive damage underscore the dangers faced by maritime vessels. The circumstances leading to the explosion remain shrouded in mystery, leaving behind a legacy of sorrow and questions.
