Argonaut – St. Clair River Barge Shipwreck (1906)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: ARGONAUT
• Type: Steam Screw Bulk Freighter (originally an unrigged barge)
• Year Built: 1873
• Builder: Detroit Dry Dock Co.
• Dimensions: Length: 213 ft (65 m); Beam: 35 ft (10.7 m); Depth of hold: 12.4 ft (3.8 m)
• Registered Tonnage: 1,118 tons
• Location: Marysville, Michigan, St. Clair River
• Official Number: 29755
• Original Owners: Argo Steamship Co., later D.W. Mills Estate

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The ARGONAUT began its life in 1873 as an unrigged barge designed to transport bulk cargo on the Great Lakes. It was later converted into a steam-powered screw propeller vessel in 1881, reflecting the era’s technological advancements and the growing demand for more efficient maritime cargo transport. As a steam-powered freighter, the ARGONAUT served the bustling trade routes of the Great Lakes, transporting materials such as ore and coal.

Description

The ARGONAUT had a storied and eventful operational history, marked by incidents and modifications: Built in 1873 by the Detroit Dry Dock Co., under the guidance of master carpenter G. Hardison, the vessel originally operated as an unrigged barge. Owned by the Argo Steamship Co. of Detroit upon construction, it was later converted into a steam-powered vessel in 1881, reflecting its owners’ need for greater efficiency and expanded operations.

History

Initially owned by Argo Steamship Co., the vessel later became the property of the D.W. Mills Estate in Cleveland. Throughout its life, the ARGONAUT underwent significant changes, including its conversion to steam propulsion, illustrating its adaptability and value to its owners.

Significant Incidents

• Sinking at Escanaba (1900) The ARGONAUT sank at the ore dock in Escanaba, Michigan, due to a machinery failure. The vessel was saved from total loss through an expensive salvage operation.
• Collision with CITY OF CONCORD (August 27, 1906) The freighter collided with the steamer CITY OF CONCORD near Port Huron, Michigan.
• Fire at Marysville Dock (October 12, 1906) While docked at Marysville, Michigan, on the St. Clair River, the ARGONAUT caught fire during the removal of its engine. The fire consumed the vessel, reducing it to a total loss. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident.

Final Disposition

The ARGONAUT was destroyed by fire at the Marysville dock on October 12, 1906. Although the vessel was being relieved of its engine at the time, the fire rendered it a total loss. The site of the incident, located in the St. Clair River, holds historical significance as the final chapter in the ship’s operational life.

Current Condition & Accessibility

As the vessel was destroyed by fire, no significant wreckage is likely to remain. Any remnants would be historical artifacts rather than intact structures.

Resources & Links

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The ARGONAUT represents a fascinating chapter in Great Lakes maritime history. From its construction as an unrigged barge to its conversion into a steam-powered freighter, the vessel played a critical role in regional commerce. Its unfortunate end in a dockside fire underscores the vulnerabilities faced by wooden vessels in the early 20th century. The ARGONAUT serves as a reminder of the technological advancements, economic contributions, and risks inherent to the Great Lakes shipping industry.