Shotline Diving

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William H. Pringle (International • Onaping • Lucknow) US 80176

Explore the history of the William H. Pringle, a wooden tugboat with a storied past, including fires, collisions, and a final dismantling in 1935.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: William H. Pringle
  • Type: Tugboat / Towboat
  • Year Built: 1870
  • Builder: Thomas T. Arnold
  • Dimensions: 120 ft (36.6 m); Beam; Depth of hold
  • Registered Tonnage: 219 tons
  • Location: Midland Bay, Georgian Bay
  • Official Number: 80176
  • Original Owners: G.H. Parker et al, Morley & Hill, W.B. Harrow, International Wrecking & Transportation Co., Detroit Tug & Wrecking Co., John & Thomas Charlton, Midland Transportation Co., Burke Towing & Salvaging Co. Ltd.

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Wood-hulled tugboat, later converted to a barge.

Description

The William H. Pringle was a wooden tugboat built in 1870 by Thomas T. Arnold in South Saginaw, Michigan. Initially designed for towing, it underwent several modifications throughout its service life, including a significant rebuild in 1884 that transformed it into a barge.

History

The vessel had a varied ownership history, starting with G.H. Parker et al in 1875. It survived a fire on the St. Clair River in 1877 and was later owned by Morley & Hill, who renamed it Onaping in 1887. The tugboat was involved in several incidents, including a collision with the steamer North Wind in 1889 and a fire that led to its beached status in 1892.

Significant Incidents

  • May 31, 1877: Burned on the St. Clair River near Port Huron; survived.
  • October 23, 1889: Reportedly struck by steamer North Wind at Amherstburg.
  • December 8, 1892: Beached and burned at Amherstburg.
  • December 5, 1935: Dismantled and intentionally burned at Midland Bay, Georgian Bay.

Final Disposition

The William H. Pringle was dismantled and intentionally burned on December 5, 1935, at Midland Bay, marking the end of its operational life.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the William H. Pringle no longer exists as it was dismantled in 1935. Historical records and documentation provide insights into its construction and service history.

Resources & Links

References are being reviewed for this wreck.

The William H. Pringle serves as a reminder of the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes, with its numerous owners and incidents reflecting the challenges faced by vessels in this region.