Mackinaw US 6958

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Mackinaw
• Type: Wooden side-wheel or propeller steamer
• Year Built:
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage:
• Location: At dock, Port Huron, Michigan
• Official Number: 6958
• Original Owners: Rice & Van Buskirk

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

A wooden steamers originally built as side-wheel vessel and later converted to propeller-driven configuration in 1877; lengthened in 1880. Intended for freight operations on Lake Huron—common among Great Lakes steam freighters transitioning from side-wheel to propeller technology.

Description

Mackinaw was composed of typical wooden hull construction, converted and modified during her operational life. Built prior to 1877, she underwent conversion to propeller-drive that year and received a lengthening by 19 feet in 1880. Her machinery and structural character reflect evolving steamer design of the late 19th century. At loss, she was docked and actively unloading a cargo of corn.

History

• Owned by Rice & Van Buskirk of Port Huron, Michigan; commanded by Captain W. E. Rice at time of loss.
• Rebuilt to propeller from a side-wheeler in 1877 and extended by 19′ in 1880 to increase capacity and efficiency.
• Engaged primarily in regional freight traffic on Lake Huron, particularly servicing routes between Port Huron and other commercial ports.

Significant Incidents

• On October 28, 1890, Mackinaw caught fire beneath her boiler while at dock and caught well-alight. The crew and dock labourers pushed her away from the wharf to prevent damage to other vessels.
• She burned to a total loss while unloading corn cargo; entire hull destroyed and loss declared absolute.
• No life lost; crew successfully evacuated.

Final Disposition

• On October 28, 1890, Mackinaw caught fire beneath her boiler while at dock and caught well-alight. The crew and dock labourers pushed her away from the wharf to prevent damage to other vessels.
• She burned to a total loss while unloading corn cargo; entire hull destroyed and loss declared absolute.
• No life lost; crew successfully evacuated.

Current Condition & Accessibility

– No Notices to Mariners or hazard bulletins noted post-loss—likely because the wreck was dockside and removed after fire.

Resources & Links

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This incident highlights the transition-era vessels adapting from side-wheel to propeller propulsion and exemplifies the risks of moored dock operations, particularly concerning boiler area fires under cargo-handling conditions.