Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Annie Laura
- Type: Steam Screw Vessel (converted to Sandsucker in 1913)
- Year Built: 1871
- Builder: J. Rice in Marine City, Michigan
- Dimensions: 133 ft (40.5 m); Beam: 25 ft (7.6 m); Depth of hold: 11 ft (3.4 m)
- Registered Tonnage: 244 tons
- Depth at Wreck Site: 3.4 m / 11 ft
- Location: Near Algonac, Michigan
- Official Number: U.S. No. 105106
- Original Owners: Unknown
- Number of Masts: Unknown
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Annie Laura was a wooden steam screw vessel that served various roles throughout its lifetime. Originally built for general cargo and passenger services, it was later converted in 1913 into a sandsucker, a vessel specifically designed for dredging sand from bodies of water. These transformations reflect the vessel’s adaptability to the economic demands of the Great Lakes maritime industry.
Description
The Annie Laura exemplifies the evolution of maritime vessels on the Great Lakes, adapting to new roles such as sandsucking over its five-decade career. Despite its versatility and resilience, the vessel ultimately succumbed to fire near Lake St. Clair, marking the end of its operational life. The collision with the Lem Higby and its conversion into a sandsucker add depth to its history, showcasing the dynamic and often perilous nature of Great Lakes shipping. Today, the Annie Laura is remembered as part of the region’s rich maritime legacy.
History
Early Service and Incidents:
The Annie Laura collided with the small schooner Lem Higby near the Rush Street Bridge in Chicago during an earlier phase of its career. The schooner began to leak, but the tug Babcock, which was towing the schooner, managed to dock it at McCormick’s factory before it sank.
Repairs and Alterations:
- 1881: Underwent major repairs, ensuring its continued operation.
- 1913: Converted into a sandsucker, enabling it to participate in dredging operations critical to maintaining waterways and supporting construction projects.
Final Incident and Loss:
On August 10, 1922, the Annie Laura caught fire near the St. Clair Flats on Lake St. Clair. The fire consumed the vessel, and it was beached near Algonac, Michigan, where it burned down to the waterline. Fortunately, there were no fatalities.
Significant Incidents
- Collision with Lem Higby near Rush Street Bridge, Chicago.
- Major repairs in 1881.
- Converted to sandsucker in 1913.
- Fire incident on August 10, 1922, leading to its destruction.
Final Disposition
The Annie Laura was destroyed by fire on August 10, 1922, near the St. Clair Flats. Its remains were removed later that year to eliminate the hazard to navigation.
Current Condition & Accessibility
No active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) relate to the Annie Laura. The wreck has been removed and does not pose a navigational hazard.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”anna-laura-us-105106″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The Annie Laura serves as a reminder of the maritime history of the Great Lakes, illustrating the challenges and transformations faced by vessels in this region.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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