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The year was 1871, and in the bustling shipyard of Graig & Linn at Gibraltar, Michigan, a formidable vessel was being brought to life. This vessel, known as the BRUNETTE, was destined for a career in the iron ore trade, a testament to the Great Lakes’ industrial might during that era. She was a grand creation, measuring 220 feet overall, with a beam of 36 feet and a depth of hold reaching 14 feet. This sturdy schooner-barge was designed to carry a substantial load of 1,400 tons, making her a formidable presence on the waters of the Great Lakes.
The BRUNETTE was initially under the ownership of George W. Bissell, hailing from Detroit, Michigan. She was proudly operated by the Western Transportation & Coal Co., ready to embark on her journey into the world of shipping.
Throughout her storied history, the BRUNETTE witnessed several changes in ownership and underwent significant transformations:
– In 1881, she found herself under the ownership of Thomas Axworthy from Cleveland, Ohio.
– By April 30, 1883, both Thomas Axworthy and George W. Hale could proudly claim ownership of the vessel.
– In 1884, the BRUNETTE underwent a significant reconstruction, breathing new life into her aging frame.
– April 14, 1886, marked a change in ownership as J. H. Palmer and C. H. Wallace took the helm.
– In 1893, J. H. Palmer became the sole owner of the BRUNETTE.
The ship’s journey was not without its twists and turns. In 1898, the BRUNETTE ventured to the east coast, exploring new waters beyond the Great Lakes. However, by 1900, she returned to her familiar territory, once again gracing the Great Lakes with her presence.
A pivotal moment in the BRUNETTE’s history occurred on November 29, 1901, when she, in tow of the steamer W. L. WETMORE, faced a catastrophic event. Caught in a relentless storm near Rabbit Island, close to Tobermory, Ontario, disaster struck. The steamer WETMORE, along with the consorts BRUNETTE and KING, laden with lumber, faced a tragic fate. While no lives were lost, all three vessels were considered total losses.
Despite the tremendous challenges posed by the storm, the crew’s spirit prevailed. Their coordinated efforts ensured that everyone made it safely to the island, battling the elements for 36 hours until rescue arrived. The crews’ teamwork and determination became legendary, demonstrating the indomitable spirit of sailors facing adversity.
The aftermath of the storm saw the BRUNETTE floating again, thanks to the tugs sent to her assistance. She was later placed in drydock at Collingwood for repairs. In 1902, she emerged with a new name—BUFFALO—a tribute to her resilience and the enduring spirit of the Great Lakes shipping industry.
As the years passed, the BUFFALO continued her journey, experiencing further changes in ownership and purpose:
– In 1912, she was converted to a barge at Reid Shipyard in Port Huron, Michigan.
– In 1913, she was sold to Canadian ownership, under the purview of James Reid in Sarnia.
– By 1915, her role had evolved into that of a lighter, assisting in various maritime operations.
Sadly, the BUFFALO’s active years came to a close in 1915 when she was abandoned, marking the end of her storied career on the Great Lakes. Her memory lives on through the tales of her resilience and the indomitable spirit of her crews, who faced the perils of the open waters with courage and determination.
Sources and External links
- Port Huron Daily Times, May 4, 1871
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes Website
- Great Lakes Register, 1900
- Duluth News Tribune, December 2, 1901
- Marine Record, December 5, 1901
- David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Duluth News-Tribune, December 12, 1901
- Marine Record, December 19, 1901
- Marine Record, January 2, 1902
- Marine Record, January 30, 1902
- Great Lakes Ships Website
- Marine Record, February 20, 1902
- Marine Record, February 27, 1902
- Marine Record, March 20, 1902
- Marine Record, July 3, 1902
- Marine Record, September 18, 1884
- Port Huron Daily Tribune, September 16, 1996
- Toledo Shipbuilding Master List, Institute for Great Lakes Research, Perrysburg, Ohio
- Mapping the Great Lakes Website
