Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: A.F. Bartlett
- Type: Wooden Propeller Steam Tug (Towboat)
- Year Built: 1871
- Builder: H. Heminger, East Saginaw, Michigan
- Dimensions: Length: 48 ft (14.6 m); Beam: 10.6 ft (3.2 m); Depth of hold: 5 ft (1.5 m)
- Registered Tonnage: Gross: 10 tons; Net: 5 tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 1.5 m / 5 ft
- Location: Duluth, Minnesota, Lake Superior
- Official Number: US 105130
- Original Owners: Captain R.J. Hackett; John Horn Jr.; John Quinn
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The A.F. Bartlett was a small but sturdy wooden steam tug designed for towing operations on the Great Lakes. Its relatively compact size and gross tonnage of 10 tons made it ideal for handling localized towing assignments in harbors and along short-haul routes. The vessel’s steam propulsion system, a common feature of tugs at the time, provided reliable power for towing other ships or barges.
Description
The A.F. Bartlett began its career in 1871 under the ownership of Captain R.J. Hackett, a well-known figure in Great Lakes shipping history. The tug quickly established itself as a workhorse in the region, taking on towing and harbor operations typical of vessels of its class.
History
Ownership of the tug changed hands multiple times throughout its operational life:
- 1876: Sold to John Horn Jr. of Detroit, Michigan.
- 1878: Half-interest acquired by John Quinn, a submarine diver, for $175, reflecting its use in potentially diverse roles, such as salvage or underwater work.
In September 1884, the A.F. Bartlett suffered significant damage due to a fire in Bay City, Michigan. Despite the extensive damage, the vessel was raised and repaired, returning to service. It was subsequently enrolled in Monroe, Michigan, where it continued its operations as a tugboat.
Significant Incidents
The A.F. Bartlett met its demise in September 1888 in Duluth, Minnesota, on Lake Superior. The tug caught fire and was declared a total loss. The exact circumstances of the fire remain unclear, and there is no record of any casualties associated with the incident. Despite being destroyed, the vessel remained on the official registry until 1900, likely due to an administrative oversight.
Final Disposition
The A.F. Bartlett was completely destroyed by fire in Duluth, Minnesota, and never returned to service. Its loss marked the end of a vessel that had served for nearly two decades as a small but valuable component of the Great Lakes maritime industry.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the A.F. Bartlett is not accessible for diving, and it is important to respect the site as a historical artifact. Divers are encouraged to document their experiences without disturbing the wreck, adhering to the principle of ‘leave only bubbles, take only memories.’
Resources & Links
References are being reviewed for this wreck.
The A.F. Bartlett exemplifies the small but essential vessels that played a critical role in the development of Great Lakes commerce during the late 19th century. Despite its relatively modest size, the tug was involved in numerous operations across multiple ports and underwent significant repairs to extend its service life after a fire in 1884. Its ultimate loss in 1888 highlights the hazards faced by these workhorse vessels and the often unpredictable nature of life on the Great Lakes. The story of the A.F. Bartlett offers a glimpse into the industrious spirit and resilience of Great Lakes maritime operations during a transformative period in the region’s history.