Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: John A. Miller
- Type: Wooden-hulled steam tug
- Year Built: 1888
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Detroit River
- Official Number: 47013
- Original Owners: E. B. Ward, Detroit
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Type: Wooden-hulled steam tug
Description
The John A. Miller was a wooden-hulled steam tug built in 1888. It was primarily used for tow and harbor assistance operations in Michigan waterways.
History
The tug was owned by E. B. Ward of Detroit and played a significant role in local maritime operations. Its service history reflects the operational demands of the late 19th century.
Significant Incidents
- Final Incident: On November 29, 1891, a fire ignited due to a bursting engine-room lantern.
- The fire began dockside, burned through her mooring lines, and caused the vessel to drift downstream.
- The John A. Miller ultimately sank a few miles downstream, likely still under fire.
- The crew was rescued by the tug John P. Levy, with no casualties reported.
Final Disposition
The burned hull was raised and rebuilt as a barge in 1892. Despite the fire, the vessel’s core structure survived and was repurposed rather than scrapped.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The current condition of the wreck is not documented, but the historical significance of the vessel highlights the fire hazards of steam-powered tugs and the practice of adaptive reuse in maritime operations.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”john-a-miller-us-47013″ title=”References & Links”]
The story of the John A. Miller serves as a reminder of the risks associated with steam vessels in the 19th century and the resilience of maritime practices in the face of disaster.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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