Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Name: Preston (later renamed Harlow)

•Type: Wooden Steambarge (later converted to a self-unloader sandsucker)

•Year Built: 1891

•Builder: Green Bay, Wisconsin

•Original Owner: P.F. Thrall, Green Bay, Wisconsin

•Hull Material: Wood

•Decks: Single

Dimensions

Original (1891):

•Length: 154 feet (46.9 meters)

•Beam: 34.4 feet (10.5 meters)

•Depth: 10.7 feet (3.3 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 515 tons

After 1899 Rebuild:

•Length: 193.7 feet (59 meters)

•Beam: 35 feet (10.7 meters)

•Depth: 11 feet (3.4 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 639 tons

After 1902 Rebuild:

•Length: 193.7 feet (59 meters)

•Beam: 35 feet (10.7 meters)

•Depth: 10.6 feet (3.2 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 575 tons

Engine Specifications

•Type: Steeple Compound Engine

•Cylinders: 16.32 x 26 inches

•horsepower: 300 HP at 85 RPM

•Manufacturer: Phoenix Iron Works, Port Huron, Michigan

•Boiler: Firebox Boiler (7 feet 6 inches x 14 feet), operating at 125 psi.

History

Construction and Early Service

The Preston began its career as a wooden steambarge built in Green Bay, Wisconsin, in 1891. It was designed for general cargo transport and was equipped with a reliable steeple compound engine.

Ownership Changes

•1893: Purchased by the Cleveland Cedar Co., Cleveland, Ohio.

•1894: Ownership transferred to William J. Harlow and others in Toledo, Ohio.

•Over the years, the vessel changed ownership numerous times, including individuals and companies in Detroit, Michigan.

Significant Incidents

1.September 1894: Ran aground in the Hog Lake Canal, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Released with assistance from the Tug Brockaway.

2.1899: Underwent a significant Rebuild and lengthening in Toledo, Ohio, increasing its size and tonnage.

3.June 29, 1901: Became waterlogged and Abandoned in a gale on Lake Superior; later towed to Port Coldwell, Ontario.

4.1902: Rebuilt in Toledo, renamed Harlow, and continued operations with new owners.

5.1906: Stranded at the head of Fighting Island, near Detroit, Michigan.

6.1915: Converted into a self-unloading sandsucker, reflecting the evolving demands of Great Lakes shipping.

Final Years and Disposition

•1926: The Harlow was scrapped due to wear and age.

•1927: Official enrollment surrendered with the note “vessel Abandoned-wore out.”

•Final Fate:

•The Hull was towed and intentionally sunk by a local individual, Mr. Sears, to create a breakwall near his property.

•The wreck is located on the edge of the Middle Channel, behind the green #13 buoy, near the Chene Highway.

Current Condition and Wreck Site

•Visibility:

•In low water conditions, portions of the wreck are partially exposed and can be easily seen from the surface.

•Location:

•Middle Channel, near the green #13 buoy.

•Current Use:

•Serves as a breakwall, repurposed to protect local shoreline property.

Significance

The Harlow (formerly Preston) is a prime example of the adaptability and resilience of wooden steambarges during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its multiple rebuilds and conversions reflect the evolving needs of Great Lakes shipping, from cargo transport to specialized sandsucker operations. Its final use as a breakwall highlights a common end-of-life practice for aging wooden vessels.

Diving and Exploration Notes

•The wreck is in shallow water, making it accessible for exploration during low water levels.

•Visible remnants include portions of the wooden Hull.

•Divers and historians can find it behind the green #13 buoy on the Middle Channel.

Resources & Links

1.Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive records of vessel construction, incidents, and ownership changes.

2.David Swayze Shipwreck File: Detailed data on shipwrecks, including the Preston/Harlow.

3.Local Historical Societies: For further research on the vessel’s use as a breakwall and its historical context.

Keywords

Harlow, Preston, Steambarge, Middle Channel Wreck, Sandsucker, Great Lakes Maritime History, Fighting Island, Breakwall Conversion, Green Buoy #13.