Title: The Tragic Sinking of the Steam Barge NEW YORK
Introduction:
The harrowing tale of the steam barge NEW YORK and its ill-fated journey on Lake Huron in October 1876 remains etched in the annals of maritime history. Laden with cargo and towing several vessels, the NEW YORK encountered treacherous conditions that would lead to a desperate struggle for survival. Despite the courageous efforts of the crew, only a few would be saved from the clutches of the unforgiving waters. This article delves into the events that unfolded during that fateful voyage, shedding light on the valiant rescue attempt by the little schooner NEMESIS and the heroics of those who braved the elements.
The Departure and Troubled Waters:
On a brisk October day, the steam barge NEW YORK set sail from Cove Island, Georgian Bay, with a valuable cargo of lumber. In tow were the schooner BUTCHER BOY and the barges NELLIE McGILVRA and R.J. CARNEY. The weather quickly turned treacherous as towering waves battered the vessels, and the towline connecting the NEW YORK to the BUTCHER BOY snapped, separating them.
The Ordeal Begins:
As if fate itself conspired against the NEW YORK, she soon sprung a leak, and desperate efforts were made to reach shallower waters. Unfortunately, the water relentlessly filled the vessel, eventually drowning out the fires, leaving her powerless in the face of the raging tempest. With the NEW YORK now drifting aimlessly, the crew knew their perilous situation was dire.
The Call for Help:
A signal of distress was raised, but it went unnoticed by passing vessels. Left with no other option, the crew of sixteen, including one woman, sought refuge in the yawl boat. With Captain Michael Galvin being the last to embark, the crew clung to hope as they faced the raging sea. The boat’s situation grew desperate as waves crashed over, leaving them with just inches between life and death.
A Ray of Hope – The Arrival of NEMESIS:
Just as hope seemed to fade, the small Canadian schooner NEMESIS came into view. Captain Spence and his brave crew of three took immediate action. Despite the dangerous conditions, they executed twelve perilous maneuvers to approach the struggling yawl boat. With extraordinary skill and courage, the NEMESIS managed to rescue most of the crew.
A Heartbreaking Loss:
In the chaos of the rescue, tragedy struck when William Sparks, the fireman from Buffalo, fell between the yawl boat and the schooner NEMESIS, vanishing beneath the waves. The valiant efforts of the NEMESIS crew, despite losing much of their deckload of tanbark, ensured the survival of most of the NEW YORK’s crew.
Safe Arrival and Heroic Acts:
After enduring over five hours of peril on Lake Huron, the rescued crew arrived safely at Port Huron, Michigan. The other vessels, BUTCHER BOY, NELLIE McGILVRA, and R.J. CARNEY, also reached the port later, all thanks to the dedication and resourcefulness of their crews.
Insurance Troubles:
As the NEW YORK’s owners sought to deal with the aftermath of the tragedy, they faced further challenges regarding insurance. Allegations emerged that premiums had not been paid, leading to a potential legal battle over the vessel’s coverage.
Conclusion:
The sinking of the steam barge NEW YORK on Lake Huron in 1876 stands as a testament to the unpredictable and unforgiving nature of the Great Lakes. The courageous rescue efforts of the little schooner NEMESIS and the heroics of the crew saved several lives but also serve as a poignant reminder of the perils faced by mariners on these majestic waters. The tragic event left an indelible mark on the maritime community and serves as a cautionary tale for those who dare to navigate the unpredictable waters of the Great Lakes.
