Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Vulcan
- Type: Wooden steam tug
- Year Built: 1868
- Builder: W. Crosthwaite in Saginaw, Michigan
- Dimensions: 63 ft (19.2 m) long × 14 ft beam × 5 ft depth; ~35 tons burthen
- Registered Tonnage: Not listed
- Location: Offshore Lake Huron between Saginaw and Cleveland
- Official Number: Not listed in primary databases
- Original Owners: Alger, Smith & Co. of Detroit
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Type
Wooden steam tug, employed in log rafting.
Description
Description
The Vulcan was a small wood-hulled steam tug built in 1868, primarily used for towing log rafts.
History
History
Owned by Alger, Smith & Co. of Detroit and commanded by Capt. William Rolls, the Vulcan was engaged in towing a large log raft from Saginaw toward Cleveland.
Significant Incidents
Significant Incidents
- On June 7, 1883, a fire broke out around her engine room while offshore.
- The blaze engulfed the vessel rapidly, leading the crew to abandon ship.
- The crew of 14 successfully reached Vermilion, Ohio, with no fatalities reported.
Final Disposition
Final Disposition
The still-aflame hull was towed to Vermilion, where it was allowed to sink. It was later refloated for salvage, primarily to recover the engine and boiler.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Current Condition & Accessibility
The submerged hulk remained until it was raised for marine salvage. It is unclear whether any structural remains still exist underwater, suggesting the hull debris was likely removed.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”vulcan-1868″ title=”References & Links”]
Conclusion
The Vulcan suffered a catastrophic engine-room fire offshore Lake Huron, leading to its abandonment. While no permanent wreckage appears to remain, further investigations may reveal residual debris or enhance our understanding of her final chapter.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
Join Shotline to read more →