Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Waters W. Braman
- Type: Propeller Steam Tug
- Year Built: 1858
- Builder: Boston, Massachusetts
- Dimensions:
- Registered Tonnage: 89
- Location: The Passage near Pelee Island, approximately 7 miles east of the Dummy
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Type: Propeller Steam Tug
Description
The Waters W. Braman was originally built as the U.S.Q.M.C. tug Rescue in 1858 in Boston, Massachusetts. It was constructed as a wooden vessel and initially had its home port in Port Royal, South Carolina. The tug had a tonnage of 89.
History
Original Role: Built as the U.S.Q.M.C. Tug Rescue for use during the mid-19th century.
Later Modifications: Brought to the Great Lakes from New York City and rebuilt just five weeks before its loss.
Significant Incidents
Date of Loss: June 26, 1867
Location: The Passage near Pelee Island, approximately 7 miles east of the Dummy (Lake Erie)
Cause: Fire originating in the coal bunker area near the boilers
Fate:
- Burned out and sank near Point Pelee after failed suppression efforts.
- Crew abandoned the vessel and were rescued by the propeller steamship Trader.
- No casualties reported.
Final Disposition
In 1883, a wrecking expedition sought to recover the engine and boiler from the submerged wreck. It was believed that portions of the machinery were undamaged and could be repurposed.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The Waters W. Braman serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by vessels operating on the Great Lakes. Despite its relatively short service life and an untimely demise, the tug’s story highlights the challenges of 19th-century maritime operations. The fire, though devastating, fortunately resulted in no loss of life—a rare mercy in Great Lakes shipwreck history.
Resources & Links
References are being reviewed for this wreck.
The tale of the Waters W. Braman adds depth to the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes, serving as both a cautionary tale and a testament to the resilience of seafarers in the face of adversity.