This historical account delves into the life and ultimate loss of the steam propeller CONGRESS, previously known as DETROIT. Built in 1861, the vessel served various purposes, from trade to wartime service. The narrative explores the ship’s construction, specifications, and notable events during its existence. The focus is on the tragic incident on October 26, 1868, when the CONGRESS met its demise due to a combination of stranding, fire, and storm near Thunder Bay Island in Lake Huron. The paper also discusses the vessel’s role as a pioneer in oil-burning technology and its association with the U.S. Quartermaster Department during the Civil War.
- Introduction:
This paper sheds light on the steam propeller CONGRESS, previously named DETROIT, tracing its history, key specifications, and notable events. It chronicles the vessel’s transformation from a freighter to an oil-burning pioneer and explores the circumstances leading to its tragic loss in 1868. - Construction and Transformation:
Built in 1861 by Peck & Masters in Cleveland, the propeller DETROIT, later renamed CONGRESS, measured 138 feet in length, 25 feet in width, and 12 feet in depth. The vessel had a storied past, transitioning from ownership by S.L. McKnight et al in Detroit to various others over the years. - Service and Innovations:
The CONGRESS played a role in history, serving the U.S. Quartermaster Department during the Civil War. In 1866, it made history as the first Great Lakes vessel to utilize oil-burning technology, showcasing innovation in maritime fuel sources. - Tragic Loss:
On October 26, 1868, the CONGRESS faced a devastating combination of challenges. Having run aground near Thunder Bay Island after being stranded on Black River Island, the vessel proceeded in heavy weather. Unfortunately, it stranded again near Thunder Bay Island, where it caught fire and burned to the waterline. The vessel’s eventual breakup in place marked the end of its journey. Despite the dramatic turn of events, no lives were lost. - Legacy and Speculation:
While the paper provides accounts of the CONGRESS’s loss in 1868, historical records suggest the possibility of its recovery and subsequent losses in either 1873 or 1893. These events highlight the uncertainties that often surround maritime history. - Conclusion:
The steam propeller CONGRESS, originally named DETROIT, lived a multifaceted life, from transporting cargo to contributing to wartime efforts and embracing innovative technologies. Its tragic loss near Thunder Bay Island in 1868 serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes. The paper sheds light on the vessel’s journey, its significance in maritime advancements, and the mysteries that linger around its later years.
