M.I. Mills

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: M.I. Mills
• Type: Tug
• Year Built:
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: Off Sand Beach, Michigan

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

A small wooden bark-tug or tow vessel used for moving sailing bark vessels like the Unadilla into port areas such as the St. Clair River.

Description

Records indicate the M.I. Mills steamed out to meet the bark Unadilla and tow her. While guiding Unadilla toward the St. Clair River entrance, M.I. Mills was involved in a collision—details of impact unspecified. Fortunately, all aboard survived, and the vessel was soon regarded as a total loss.

History

On 9 May 1873, the M.I. Mills was carrying out towing operations for the bark Unadilla toward the St. Clair River. In Lake Huron near Sand Beach, a collision occurred. No crew were lost; however, the vessel sustained critical damage and was recorded as sunk on the same day.

Significant Incidents

• Collision while towing the bark Unadilla into St. Clair River; struck another object during operation.

Final Disposition

• Outcome: Total loss
• Salvage: Unclear—likely none performed, and the wreck was abandoned
• Debris Field: No specific site recorded

Current Condition & Accessibility

No modern dive expeditions or surveys have documented the wreck. Its approximate location remains off Sand Beach; submerged remains have not been located or charted.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”m-i-mills” title=”References & Links”]

The M.I. Mills represents a small but vital class of towing vessels supporting bark arrivals on the Great Lakes. The vessel’s loss during routine service underscores the common collision risks in the era’s limited navigational aids. Although her remaining wreckage has not been found, the incident is recorded among Lake Huron’s marine operations history.