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06/30/1998: Reported by: D. Ocean |
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Wolf River departs 06/30: Reported by: Ron Konkol |
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Surging Stone Trade Keeps Jones Act Lakers Busy in May 06/30: Stone cargos in U.S.-Flag lakers topped 4.1 million tons in May, an increase of 14.5 percent. Demand from the construction industry is driving the stone trade to levels that better even pre-recession totals. Including loadings in Canadian-flag lakers, the May stone float on the Lakes set an all-time record for a single month – 5.2 million tons. High operating rates at steel mills pushed the iron ore trade in U.S. bottoms to 7.1 million tons, a slight increase over the same period last year. Lead by growing demand for low-sulfur coal, coal cargos in U.S.-Flag lakers totaled 2.6 million tons, an increase of 7.3 percent. For the season, the iron ore trade in American lakers stands at 16.4 million tons, an increase of 7.6 percent. The stone trade in U.S. bottoms stands at 7.6 million tons, an increase of 24.8 percent. Coal cargos are slightly behind last year’s pace as the mild winter has not required some utilities to rebuild stockpiles of eastern coal at the usual pace. As May began, Lakes Jones Act operators had 63 of their 69 vessels in service. A straight-decker in the iron ore trade was temporarily idled during the month and another straight-decker dedicated to grain was withdrawn from service until demand materializes. However, a cement carrier began its season on June 3 and during 1998 only 2 U.S.-Flag lakers are not expected to operate. One vessel is a small cement carrier; the other a straight-decker best suited to the carriage of grain. Reported by: the Lake Carriers’ Association |
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Ladies and Gentlemen, Toronto introduces THE PIER. 06/30: The Pier is an interactive, highly entertaining museum dedicated to all things nautical. Through a wide range of thematic exhibits, lively and ever-changing programs and activities designed with families in mind, The Pier has been built to bring Toronto’s waterfront heritage alive! “When the Marine Museum was located on the CNE grounds, we were separated not just from the city but from the lake as well. With a new bayside home, superb exhibits and a mandate to have fun, The Pier will be one of the hottest tickets on the waterfront,” explained Heritage Toronto Chair Dr. Marion Joppe. “We expect to welcome almost 100,000 visitors to the bustling central waterfront this year!” Established in 1959, the Marine Museum of Upper Canada is owned by the City of Toronto. Planning for the relocation of the museum began in 1988; the reconstruction of the physical site commenced in late 1997. Major funding for this $2 million dollar project has come from the City of Toronto and the Canada Ontario Infrastructure Works programme. Additional support has been provided by the Ministry of Citizenship, Culture and Recreation. The Pier is housed in a warehouse originally built by the Toronto Harbour Commission for the Treeline Navigation Company. Over the past six months a design team composed of Reich + Petch Architects Inc., Taylor Manufacturing Industries Inc. and the Pier staff has turned the large two story brick building into a multi-purpose, open concept museum that comes complete with an indoor children’s discovery centre housed inside the hull of a ship! Many of the world’s great cities have begun at the water’s edge, and Toronto is no exception. The Bay and the Islands have captivated residents and visitors alike for over two centuries. There is nowhere else in the city like The Pier, with its rare mix of culture, heritage, craftsmanship and recreational pursuits. The museum combines the best of waterfront charm and history to ensure a memorable experience for everyone! Every city has a history, but few Canadian places can boast of a more dynamic and engaging past than Toronto’s waterfront. The building’s exhibits are thematic and revolve around this exciting history. Commerce, War, Pleasure and Healing are all integral parts of the story of Toronto Bay. The Pier is fittingly reachable by boat. As well visitors can get to the museum by walking, cycling, rollerblading, driving, riding the street car or even by paddling a canoe. The museum plans to use Lake Ontario to its advantage and will be offering boat rides and boat rentals! Highlights of the Pier include: “The Pier has been built to be provide the best of waterfront charm and history to ensure a memorable experience for everyone and to add an exciting new dimension to the central bay! We have designed packages and programs for both individual and group visitors. Movie nights, musical performances, narrated one or two hour schooner cruises, fine dining at the water’s edge, and escorted tours of the exhibits are programs that have been designed for groups,” said The Pier marketing manager Neil Beaudry. “The group experience is quite affordable, ranging in price from $7.50 to $26.50 per person.” Located at 245 Queens Quay West The Pier will be open year round. There is a café in the museum and facilities rental space for a wide variety of uses. The building is fully accessible. An annual schedule of seasonal events and programs will soon be unveiled by the Pier. Admission rates are: adults, $8.50; students & seniors, $6.50; children, $5.50; and family pass, $20.00. Information Contact: To Arrange for a Media Tour or for The Pier Team interviews please contact Stephen Weir 489-5868 |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 30 On June 30, 1954, the Scott Misener began her maiden voyage. In 1962 Cliffs Victory made her first trip down the Welland Canal with a load of iron ore for Hamilton, Ont. The LEON FALK, JR.’s maiden voyage began on June 30, 1961 when she departed Baltimore and loaded 20,748 tons of iron ore at Sept Îles, Que. en route for Cleveland, OH and arrived there on July 8th. The FALK was one of seven T2 tanker conversions for Great Lakes service. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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News from the Seaway 06/29: On June 11, an east coast ferry, the KATHARINE, registered at St. John`s, was towed up the Seaway by Jarrett McKeil assisted by Lac Vancouver. They were bound for Hamilton. I have no idea why McKeil Marine purchased that ferry which was owned by the Canadian Government. On June 16, the bulker APTMARINER went aground off St. Nicholas Island at the eastern end of Lake St. Louis in the St.Lawrence Seaway. It was due to steering problems. She was bound for Cleveland with a load of steel coils taken at Klaipeda, Lithuania. Built at Sunderland, England, she is a regular visitor in the Great Lakes. She also completed at least one trip under her original name of Devonbrook. She was free on June 18 a few minutes after midnight by the tug Jerry Newberry of McKeil Marine and by André H. and Avantage owned by Three Rivers Boatman. The ship sustained some damages to her forepeak and will have to be repaired in a Great Lakes shipyard, perhaps the one at Toledo. Entering the Seaway on June 20 was the chemical tanker KASLA registered at Douglas (Isle of Man) making her first trip under that name. She is best remembered by ship watchers under her previous name of Kiisla when registered in Finland. She traded between Great Lakes ports during the winter 85/86 and also from the winters 87 to 93. On her June 20 trip, she only went to Hamilton where she delivered a cargo of coal tar. Reported by: René Beauchamp |
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And the Winner is.. 06/29: Over 1300 H.P. Class: 750 – 1300 H.P. Class 410 – 750 H.P. Class 200 – 400 H.P. Class Under 200 H.P. Class Reported by: Marine Historical Society of Detroit |
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New Raffle 06/29: The International Ship Masters’ Association Detroit Lodge #7 is offering a Chance to win a trip on the S/S COURTNEY BURTON to benefit their convention fund. Grand Prize is a trip for you and 5 friends aboard the COURTNEY BURTON, flagship of the Oglebay Norton fleet. The drawing will be held on February 13, 1999, and the trip on the COURTNEY BURTON will take place during the 1999 Great Lakes shipping season. Departure port & dates will be coordinated with winner. Click here for more information and the order form |
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Upcoming Event 06/29: |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 29 The BEECHGLEN was Launched in 1923 as a) CHARLES M. SCHWAB for the Interlake Steamship Co. On June 29, 1962, the Canadian Hunter began her maiden voyage. The JOSEPH L. BLOCK was christened on June 29, 1976. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 28 On June 28, 1938, at 8:50 a.m., the William A. Irvin departed Duluth with her first cargo of iron ore for Lorain, Ohio. 48 years later, in 1986, almost to the minute, the William A. Irvin opened as a museum to the public. I had the honor of conducting the first public tour aboard the vessel. The ATLANTIC SUPERIOR arrived at the Algoma Steel Plant, Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. on her maiden voyage in 1982 with a load of taconite but before she was unloaded christening ceremonies were conducted there. the SAM LAUD ran aground June 28, 1975 on a shoal south of Sturgeon Bay, with a cargo of coal from Chicago, IL for Green Bay, WI. Six-thousand tons of coal were off-loaded the next day into the NICOLET before she could proceed to Green Bay along with the NICOLET to discharge cargoes. SAM LAUD entered the dry dock at Sturgeon Bay on July 3rd for repairs. She had suffered extensive bottom damage with leakage into seven double bottom tanks and the forepeak. She returned to service on August 21, 1975. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Tug Boat Races Today 06/27: Reported by: Marine Historical Society of Detroit |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 27 CANADIAN RANGER was launched in 1967 by Davie Shipbuilding Ltd., Lauzon, Que. as a) CHIMO, C.323030, for the Canada Steamship Lines Ltd. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Twin Ports Report 06/26: Reported by: Al Miller |
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New president of Canada Ports 06/26: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Mooring placed at the wreck of the Niagara 06/26: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Navy ship for Lakes Cruise 06/26: Reported by: David F. |
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Book on Indiana ports available 06/26: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 26 In 1926 the Lemoyne was launched at Midland Shipbuilding Co, Midland Ont. She was 6 feet wider and 4 feet shallower than the largest ship at that time. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Cleveland Report Update 06/25: Reported by: D. Doright |
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Detroit River Shut Down 06/25: Reported by: N. Schultheiss |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 25 1927 the B.F. Affleck was launched at Toledo Shipbuilding Co. On June 25, 1938, the William A. Irvin began her maiden voyage, leaving Lorain, Ohio for Duluth to load iron ore. The ALGOBAY collided head-on with the steamer MONTREALAIS in foggy conditions on the St. Clair River June 25, 1980 causing extensive bow damage to both vessels. Repairs to the ALGOBAY were made by Herb Fraser & Associates, Port Colborne, Ont. at an estimated cost of $500,000. She returned to service by mid August, 1980. INDIANA HARBOR set a Great Lakes cargo record on June 25, 1993 loading 71,369 tons of western low sulfur coal at Superior (WI) Midwest Energy Terminal and transporting it 50 miles to Silver Bay, MN. This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Ship Loses Power at Lock 06/24: The engine trouble delayed two ships scheduled to go through the lock. Several ships were also delayed in the Cape Vincent area, but Seaway officials said the problem wasn’t mechanical, but a shortage of pilots to guide the boats through the Seaway. The heavy amount of traffic on the Seaway has created a temporary shortage pilots. There is a mandatory rest period for the pilots, who are required on any ocean-going boat going through the locks and Seaway. This area is one of the most dangerous waterways and requires alert and rested pilots to safely navigate boats through. Groundings and spills here could be a major catastrophe with serious consequence. Reported by: Joan Baldwin |
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Cargo Shipments Up in Duluth 06/24: Reported by: David F. |
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Blough to Lower Lakes 06/24: Reported by: David F. |
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World registries in 1997 06/24: 4. Greece, 1,641 ships of 25.288 million gross tons, 24 years Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 24 On June 24, 1971, a fire broke out in the engine room of the ROGER BLOUGH killing four yard workers and extensively damaging her Pielstick diesel engines. Extensive repairs, which included replacement of both engines, delayed the launch for nearly a year. The RIDGETOWN was launched June 24, 1905 as a) WILLIAM E. COREY, the first flagship for the Pittsburgh Steamship Co., Cleveland, OH. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Back up and running. Should have the other pages updated later today. |
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Twin Ports Report 06/23: Fred R. White Jr., an infrequent caller in the Twin Ports, arrived in Superior on June 21 to load coal bound for Taconite Harbor. After unloading at the power plant there, the White took on taconite. A two-year project to demolish the former Cargill C and D grain elevators in Duluth took a major step over the weekend of June 20-21 when the contractor set off demolition charges in half of Cargill C. Part of the concrete silos collapsed completely, but much of the structure remained standing and canted far to one side. Reported by: Al Miller |
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Pere Marquette 41 Christeded 06/23: The new vessel gives a second life to the former City of Midland 41. Pere Marquette Shipping Company was founded by Bob Manglitz, Jim Anderson, and Don Clingan. Ed Wiltse is Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Reported by: the Max Hanley |
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New Commodity for Manistee 06/23: Reported by: Chris Franckowiak |
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Ship Runs Into Seaway Lock Wall 06/23: The MOUNTAIN BLOSSOM was the second ship to spill fuel in the locks in the past year. In August, a Maltese ship discharged jet fuel into the Snell Lock after a minor collision. This fuel dissipated within a few hours and the locks were reopened the same day. Campers were evacuated from Barnhart Island, and no one was injured in the incident. Reported by: Joan Baldwin and Steve Schultz |
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Cargo Endurance Runs aground 06/23: Reported by: John Whitehead |
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Cleveland Report 06/23: The vessel Alexandria arrived for discharge of steel products and was found with 7 feet of water in one hold and 9 feet in another! Speculation is that the Vessel hit something between Port Colborne and Cleveland. Surveyors are figuring on about a $1,000,000 in damages to cargo alone. Reported by: N. Schultheiss |
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Mackinaw seeing red 06/23: Click here for a picture from the USCG (large file size, 200+k) Reported by: Andy Torrence |
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Snowbirds Flying Team To Perform 06/23: Reported by: Philip Nash |
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New Service to Canada 06/23: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Update 06/23: Reported by: Barry Andersen |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 23 In 1926 the Lemoyne was launched at Midland Shipbuilding Co, Midland Ont. She was 6 feet wider and 4 feet shallower than the largest ship at that time. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 22 The DAVID Z. NORTON (2) was Launched and christened as the WILLIAM R. ROESCH on June 22, 1973 for the Union Commerce Bank, Ohio (Trustee) and managed by the Kinsman Marine Transit Co., Cleveland, OH. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 21 On June 21, 1942, the Alpena–formerly the Leon Fraser–entered service as the largest vessel on the Great Lakes. The former U.S. Steel bulk freighter, originally 639’6″ long, retained at least a tie for that honor until the Wilfred Sykes entered service on April 19, 1950. Also on June 21, 1942, the U.S. Steel bulk freighter Eugene J. Buffington ran hard aground on Boulder Reef in Lake Michigan and broke in two. The vessel was subsequently recovered and, after a long career with U.S. Steel, was finally sold for scrap in 1980. The M/V RANGER III was side launched at Christy Ship (Bay Ship), Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin on Saturday, June 21st, 1958. The vessel was custom designed by R.A. Stearns (Bay Engineering) also of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin for the National Park Service, Isle Royale National Park. On June 21, 1986, during a severe thunderstorm (and unofficial observations of a funnel cloud) in the Duluth area, the Joshua A. Hatfield broke loose from Azcon Scrap Dock in Duluth and was blown across the harbor and ended up hard aground on Park Point (Minnesota Point). She remained stuck for nearly 3 weeks when a storm with east winds pushed the Hatfield free and she blew most of the way back across the harbor back to the scrap dock! Tugs were dispatched in time to safely guide the Hatfield back to the scrap dock. (June seems to be a bad month for U.S. Steel in accidents, with the June 7, 1977 accident involving the William A. Irvin, the June 15, 1943 collision between the D.M. Clemson and the George M. Humphrey, and the June 21, 1942 grounding of the Eugene J. Buffington on Boulder Reef.) Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 20 The WILLIAM P. COWAN cleared Lorain on her maiden voyage in 1918 In 1903 the twin screw rail car ferry GRAND HAVEN was launched for the Grand Trunk Carferry Line, Milwaukee, WI. On June 20, 1953, the Canada Steamship Lines bulk freighter Burlington collided with and sank the Scotiadoc in Lake Superior. On June 20, 1959, the Seaway Queen began her maiden voyage. The vessel was appropriately named, as at the time she was the largest Canadian vessel on the Great Lakes, the 2nd largest on the Great Lakes overall (behind the Edmund Fitzgerald), and she entered service the same week that Queen Elizabeth II and President Dwight D. Eisenhower formally dedicated the St. Lawrence Seaway. To this day, she remains one of the more popular and classic looking vessels on the Great Lakes. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 19 1954 the George M. Humphrey (named for President Eisenhower’s Secretary of Treasury) launched at American Shipbuild Co., Lorain, OH In 1978, the Algobay was launched at Collingwood. Data from: Jody Aho Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Twin Ports Report 06/18: Reported by: Al Miller |
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Pere Marquette 41 arrives 06/18: Pere Marquette Shipping Inc. is having a re-christening ceremony and open house aboard the S.S. Badger in the “Upper Deck Cafe” at 7:30 pm today, June 18th. The public is invited to attend. Reported by: the Max Hanley |
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Kaye E. Barker loads unusual cargo 06/18: |
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Columbus to call Milwaukee in September 06/18: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Correction — New tug name 06/18: Reported by: the Interlake Steamship Company |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 18 In 1949 the Wilfred Sykes was launched at American Shipbuilding Co., Lorain, OH. At the time she was the largest and most powerful vessel on the lakes. The Sykes was also the first boat to have a poop deck. 1964 The Saguenay was launced at Davie Ship Building Ltd., Lauzon, Quebec 1968 the Algocen was launched at Collingwood Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Re-christening Scheduled 06/17: Reported by: the Max Hanley |
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Record Demand For Low-Sulfur Coal 06/17: According to published reports, SMET projects loading 16.5 million tons of coal this year, by far a new record for the 22-year-old operation. Reported by: the Lake Carriers’ Association |
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Nyanza update 06/17: Reported by: the John Whitehead |
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U.S. Coast Guard seeking committee members 06/17: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 17 The SCOTT MISENER (2) was christened on June 17, 1951. She was the first vessel built at Port Weller. The PATERSON (1) collided with the steamer EDMUND W. MUDGE in 1957 in fog on the St. Clair River opposite Marine City, MI. The WILLIAM A. IRVIN was towed back to Duluth on June 17, 1986 by the tugs SIOUX and DAKOTA to be on station as a museum ship at the new $3 million convention facility. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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June Vessel Report 06/16: Reported by: the Lake Carriers’ Association |
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Bumb Boat Returns 06/16: Reported by: Al Miller |
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Algontario becomes a regular 06/16: Reported by: Al Miller |
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Salties in the News 06/16: Lloyds Casualty list revealed today that the Salty bulk carrier GRANT CARRIER is detained in the Great Lakes, until repairs are carried out to a holed ballast tank. This was discovered June 14 when the vessel was subjected to U.S Coastguard inspection of the vessel in Cleveland. The salty NYANZA has been the subject of an internet search for her whereabouts by a UK debt management company after she left Gibraltar May 25 -destination “Canada”. She was located last week in Gros Cacouna Quebec in the Lower St Lawrence. The vessel made a very fast visit to Montreal and departed June 15, destination unknown. Reported by: John Whitehead |
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The next boat to: Bob-Lo 06/16: Great Lakes Maritime Institute presents: The next boat to: Bob-Lo / Diamond Belle / Saturday, June 20, 1998. This special voyage of the Diamond Belle will depart from Diamond Jack’s Landing at the foot of West Grand Blvd, Detroit-4 blocks from Clark Street Exit off I-75 Bob-Lo Island is in Canada. You must have two pieces of I.D., one must be passport or birth certificate. You will be required to identify yourself to both Canadian and U.S. Customs & immigration. Ships Schedule – Subject to many conditions Tickets by Reservation Only |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 16 In 1967 the Canadian Leader was launched at Collingwood. She was the last steam powered lake ship. Upbound in the Welland Canal June 16, 1963 loaded with iron ore for Chicago, U.S. Steel’s BENJAMIN FAIRLESS suffered bow damage in collision with Canadian steamer RALPH S. MISENER. In 1918 the WILLIAM P SNYDER, JR. was in collision with the steamer GEORGE W. PERKINS in Duluth Harbor resulting in damages of $5,000 to both vessels. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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New Interlake Tug Name 06/15: Reported by: the Know Your Ships |
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St. Clair Spills Fuel 06/15: Reported by: the Marine Historical Society of Detroit |
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B+B Dredging purchases new hopper 06/15: Reported by: the D. Ocean |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 15 On June 15, 1943, the D.M. Clemson collided with and sank the George M. Humphrey in the Straits of Mackinac. Both of these 600-footers recovered for long careers. The D.M. Clemson was sold for scrap in 1980. The George M. Humphrey was recovered over a year later, renamed the Captain John Roen, later converted to a self-unloader, and finished her career as the Consumers Power at the end of the 1985 season before being scrapped in 1988. In 1972, the Roger Blough entered service on her maiden voyage, departing Lorain, Ohio for Two Harbors, Minnesota to load ore. She was nearly a year late because of a fire in her engine room. 1989 Roger M. Kyes rechristened Adam E. Cornelius Data from: Jody L. Aho, Andy Hering, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Wildlife on the river 06/13: Reported by: Andy LaBorde |
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Update on the Blough 06/13: Reported by: Mark Peabody |
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New Plateau For Great Lakes Stone Trade 06/13: U.S.-Flag lakers carried 4.1 million tons of stone, or 80 percent, of the record May float. Virtually all of that stone was delivered to American ports. The movement of cargo between two U.S. ports is generally referred to as the Jones Act trades. Section 27 of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 reserves the movement of cargo between U.S. ports to vessels that are American-owned, -crewed and -built. The United States has reserved domestic waterborne commerce to American vessels since virtually the first days of the republic. For the season, stone shipments from Great Lakes ports stand at 9,569,289 tons, an increase of 21 percent over the corresponding period last year. Incredibly enough, 1997 was itself nearly a record season for stone. The 39.1 million tons loaded last year was the highest level achieved since 1978 and not too far behind the all-time high – 43.1 million tons in 1974. While demand for stone is brisk, the trade has also benefited from the mild winter. With virtually no ice and moderate temperatures, many stone docks resumed shipping in March. Typically, stone does not start moving until early April and generally does not reach its stride until late in the month. “Many people believed that the recession of last decade so changed the face of Great Lakes shipping that our heyday was behind us,” said George J. Ryan, President of Lake Carriers’ Association. “However, this new benchmark for the stone trade is just one example of how U.S.-Flag carriers and Great Lakes shippers have proved the naysayers wrong. Iron ore shipments have rebounded to levels many thought we’d never see again. The western coal trade continues to increase significantly each year.” Reported by: the Lake Carriers’ Association |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 13 On June 13, 1983, the John B. Aird began its maiden voyage, a load of coal from Thunder Bay to Nanticoke, Ontario. The IRVING S. OLDS carried a then-record 17,817 gross tons of iron ore on June 13, 1943 from Lake Superior and transported a total of 736,800 short tons of various bulk cargoes the next year. On the morning of June 13, 1905 running downbound on Lake Superior, the heavily laden SYLVANIA encountered heavy fog as she approached the Soo. Confused whistle signals resulted in the SYLVANIA glancing off the Pittsburgh S.S. steamer SIR HENRY BESSEMER which sustained a 175 foot port side gash from the SYLVANIA’s anchor. The BESSEMER required $40,000 in repairs and the SYLVANIA’s damages totaled $10,000 which included a new anchor and shell plating which was completed at the Craig Shipbuilding Co., Toledo, OH. Data from: Jody L. Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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“New” Dock in Rouge River 06/12: |
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Tug Sinks 06/12: Reported by: Lew Clarke |
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Roger Blough 06/12: Reported by: Andy LaBorde |
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Maritime Antique Show 06/12: |
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New Vessel Passage Port 06/12: |
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Welland Canal Ship Society 06/12: There is usually a slide show and presentation with a brief break for coffee and cookies. Reported by: J. J. Van Volkenburg |
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Position Open 06/12: Reported by: William Hanrahan |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 12 “STUBBY”, The bow and stern sections of the STEWART J. CORT welded together passed Port Colborne, Ont. on June 12, 1970 bound for Erie, PA under her own power. STUBBY’s bow and stern sections were later separated at Erie Marine, Inc., a Div. of Litton, and joined to the 816 foot hull mid-body The NANTICOKE departed Collingwood in 1980 starting her maiden voyage In 1959 the BENSON FORD ran aground in the Amherstburg Channel on her upbound trip with coal for the Rouge Plant. After five days of lightering and with tug assistance, she was freed. Damages amounted to 41 bottom plates which took 30 days to repair. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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St. Lawrence Seaway to 31 May 06/11: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 11 ATLANTIC SUPERIOR was float launched in 1982 for Federal Commerce & Navigation Ltd., Montreal, Quebec (Canada Steamship Lines Ltd., mgr.) built for the Caribbean trade. MESABI MINER was christened at Duluth on June 11th, the MESABI MINER became the fourth thousand foot bulk carrier on the Great Lakes and Interlake’s second. IRVIN L. CLYMER – a) CARL D. BRADLEY (1) cleared Lorain in her gray and white livery, 1917, on her maiden voyage light bound for Calcite, MI to load limestone. She was the first Great Lakes commercial ship equipped with both Morse code telegraphy as well as ship-to–shore radio in 1922, which was standard on only 20 vessels by 1924. On June 11, 1936 the EDWARD J. BERWIND collided with the AYCLIFFE HALL 16 miles West of Long Point on Lake Erie. The Hall Corp. steamer went to the bottom and was not salvaged. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 10 The OGLEBAY NORTON (a LEWIS WILSON FOY) loaded her first cargo June 10, 1978 at Burlington Northern #5, Superior, WI with 57,952 tons of Hibbing taconite pellets for Burns Harbor, IN. In 1991. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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News from the Seaway 06/09: Going up the Seaway for the first time in ten years on June 8 was the general cargo, Friendship type, Bahamas-flag ARABELLA bound for Cleveland. Back in 1988, she was then registered in Greece. Built in 1983, she had made her maiden trip in the Seaway a year later. 21 of this type of vessels were built between 1978 and 1989 in Japan and the majority of them visited Great Lakes ports over the years. 11 of them are fitted with horizontally slewing cranes such as ARABELLA and 10 are fitted with travelling gantry cranes.A sister-ship to ARABELLA, KENT NAVIGATOR called at Chicago last year. She has since been renamed AGAMEMNON by her owners. Reported by: René Beauchamp |
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Grain Slow 06/09: Last year at this time all but the Seaway Queen were out and stayed out all summer. Reported by: J J Van Volkenburg |
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More on Grain Slow Down 06/09: Reported by: Tom Coonly |
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Bridge Rehab 06/09: If you can help with this type of information please contact Tom Coonly |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 9 LIGHTSHIP 103 was delivered to the 12th District Headquarters at Milwaukee, WI on June 9, 1921 to begin her Great Lakes career. June 9, 1983 ALGOWEST loaded a then-record 1,047,758 bushels of wheat at Thunder Bay. ROGER BLOUGH began sea trials in 1972 Data from: Jody L. Aho, Andy Hering, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Lake Ontario Ferries Update 06/08: Waterways Transportation Services is still not in operation despite start dates indicated in the Globe & Mail (reported start date June 1) and the Toronto Sun (reported start date May 15). Sources in Toronto Harbour indicate that while Waterways I – the 300-seat catamaran – has been flagged Canadian she still has some modifications to her Safety Systems to complete. The Engine Room compartments are too small for standard CO2 Containers and suppliers are recommending customizing Co2 Containers for her. Waterways I will link Jordan Harbour and Toronto when her modifications are finally complete. Hydrofoil Lake Jet Lines is running the Seaflight I, a 139-passenger Hydrofoil between Toronto and Queenston, Ontario. Despite some difficulties with the Municipal Government in Queenston over Dock zoning, Seaflight I has been operating for a week now. Observers note few, if any, passengers on most of their runs. One observation that resulted in a great deal of attention was that of the U.S. Coast Guard Station Niagara which responded to complaints about Seaflight I’s wake on the Niagara River. On Saturday, June 6, videographers chronicled the passage – and subsequent wake impact on the Lewiston Anchorage – as it departed Queenston. Also in attendance was a County Sherrif’s Police Boat that reported the disturbance to the Coast Guard. Reported by: Erin Diel Corner House Imaginations |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 8 1978 the Lewis Wilson Foy ( b) OGLEBAY NORTON ) was christened for the Bethlehem Steel Co., Cleveland, Ohio. In 1938, the Governor Miller, sistership to the William A. Irvin, began her maiden voyage, leaving Lorain, Ohio. The Governor Miller was only the 2nd Great Lakes vessel to be powered by a steam turbine with a direct drive to the propeller shaft via reduction gear. 1976 – the Superior Midwest Energy Terminal loaded its first cargo of low-sulfur coal. The John J. Boland took the honors as the first vessel to load at this dock. 1977 the HARRY L. ALLEN was the first freighter to load at Burlington Northern’s Dock #5 in Superior, WI Data from: Jody L. Aho, Andy Hering, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Cuyahoga refloated 06/07: Reported by: Dan Maus |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 7 1958 the Edmund Fitzgerald was launched at Great Lakes Engineering Works, River Rouge, MI (the animated image at the top of this page shows the launch) In 1977, the William A. Irvin ran into the side of the Rock Cut after a power failure on board. The vessel received only slight damage. ( For a more detailed account, read my book “The Steamer William A. Irvin: Queen of the Silver Stackers”). Also on June 7, 1977 the MESABI MINER departed the shipyard on her maiden voyage to load ore at Duluth, MN. On June 7, 1991, the Alpena (former Leon Fraser) began her maiden voyage as a cement carrier, departing Superior, Wisconsin, for her namesake port. Fraser Shipyards, who performed the conversion, took out a full-page ad in the Superior Evening Telegram proclaiming “INLAND LAKES MANAGEMENT, YOUR SHIP IS READY” and a picture of the vessel. Data from: Jody L. Aho, Andy Hering, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Cuyahoga stuck in Saginaw River 06/06: At 10:00 A.M. the tug Gregory Busch and barge were enroute to attempt to free the Cuyahoga from mud. Reported by: Dan Maus |
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Busy Day at Port Huron 06/06: Reported by: John Meyland |
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Rare Vessel Visits Along the Seaway 06/06: Of the 2,000 Hardanger jakts built over 300 years, the ANNA KRISTANA is one of only 20 still in existence. Built in the 1880s, the ship set sail in the spring of 1890 with the name DYREFJELD. In 1977, Hans van de Vooren and his family found the ship laid up and hidden away in a northern Norway port. The family purchased the ship,renamed it and began a decade-long project to restore it. Since then the ship has sailed to various parts of the world and participated in the making of several films in Europe. The ANNA KRISTINA has her mizzenmast between the galley and the captain’s cabin and has a square top sail. She is now traveling to Chicago, Ill.where she will be part of the 1998 Great Lakes Tall Ships Race, the world’s oldest fresh water yacht race. Clayton, New York is among the first stops for the ship which is expected to visit other N.Y.ports in Oswego, Rochester, and Dunkirk. Reported by: Joan Baldwin |
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Soo Locks Engineers Day 06/06: Reported by: Know Your Ships |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 6 1944 Joseph H. Thompson participated in the D-Day invasion at Normandy The E.B. BARBER entered service on June 6, 1953. In 1953, the Armco began her maiden voyage from Lorain, Ohio bound for Superior, Wisconsin to load iron ore. On June 6, 1959, the Sarah Spencer (formerly Adam E. Cornelius, Edmund V. Smith, and Sea Barge One) began her maiden voyage from Manitowoc, Wisconsin. This was the last Great Lakes vessel constructed with telescoping hatch covers. POINTE NOIRE was in collision with Cleveland Tanker’s SATURN on June 6, 1977 near Fighting Island in the Detroit River. CLIFFS VICTORY loaded her first cargo after conversion, she loaded 13,089 gross tons of iron ore at Marquette, MI on June 6th 1951. Her downbound delivery trip to Cleveland, OH took only 38 hours, normally a 55 to 60 hour run for other lakers, and averaged over 13.9 knots (16 mph). Data from: Jody L. Aho, Andy Hering, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 5 1972 the ROGER BLOUGH was christened Also in 1972 the PARKER EVANS was in collision with the upbound Erie Sand steamer SIDNEY E. SMITH, JR. just below the Blue Water Bridge, at Port Huron, MI. The SMITH sank in twenty minutes with no loss of life. The EVANS, with bow damage, proceeded to Port Weller Dry Docks Ltd., St. Catharines, Ont. for extensive repairs. As a result of this accident, on October 4, 1972 alternate one-way traffic between the Black River Buoy and Buoys One and Two in Lake Huron was agreed upon by the shipping companies. Also a call-in system was initiated to monitor traffic between the Detroit River Light and Buoys Seven and Eight in Lake Huron by the newly established Sarnia Traffic. On June 5, 1979, the Cartiercliffe Hall (later Winnipeg and now Algontario) caught fire on Lake Superior off the Keweenaw Peninsula just before 4:00 a.m. Six crewmembers died in the fire, and the U.S. Steel bulk freighter Thomas W. Lamont was able to rescue others from the Cartiercliffe Hall. LIGHTSHIP 103 (HURON) had her keel laid June 5, 1918. In 1971 the lightship was acquired by the City of Port Huron for use as a museum. Data from: Jody L. Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Twin Ports News 06/04: Reported by: Al Miller |
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New U.S. Coast Guard commandant 06/04: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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I.T.W.F. releases crew conditions report 06/04: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 4 On May 24, 1997, the MV PATERSON sailed for the Port of Windsor with a load of Number 1 Canola which totalled 26,881.588 metric tonnes setting a new record for the Port of Thunder Bay. In 1947 the 525-foot Canada Steamship Lines bulk freighter Emperor stranded on Canoe Rocks on Lake Superior and sank with a loss of 12 lives. Cliffs Victory sailed on her maiden voyage light from South Chicago in 1951 OTTERCLIFFE HALL (e) CANADIAN TRADER had her Keel laid 1968 The EDGAR B. SPEER was christened June 4th 1980 at Lorain for the Connecticut Bank & Trust Co., Hartford, CT, managed by the Great Lakes Fleet of the United States Steel Corp., Duluth, MN. In 1988, the Irving S. Olds departed Duluth under tow, headed for scrap. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Iglehart Hits Bar 06/03: Reported by: Al Hart and Rex Cassidy |
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Top Secret Shuttle Exposed 06/03: Fake Story This never before seen photo (fake) shows the U.S.S. Wyoming exiting a SCF above the Soo Locks.
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Back to the real news
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International year of the Ocean 06/03: The Canadian Coast Guard, Central and Arctic Region, and the United States Coast Guard, 9th District, have the privilege of having the Great Lakes within our areas of responsibility. The Great Lakes, in addition to being a key commercial and recreational waterway, represents the water supply for approximately 30 million people in Canada and the United States. In recognition of the interdependencies between the oceans and the Great Lakes, the Canadian Coast Guard, Central and Arctic Region, and the United States Coast Guard, 9th District, invite you to celebrate in an international event entitled “The Great Lakes Celebrate the International Year of the Ocean”. the showcase is jointly supported by the City of Port Huron, Michigan, and the City of Sarnia, Ontario. The open house will take place on Saturday, July 11, 1998 in Sarnia. We invite you, as a member of the Great Lakies community, to attend this celebration. More details on the time, location, and events taking place can be found on the dedicated web page http://www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca/cen-arc/iyo.htm |
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New Book OUR “DOWNRIVER” RIVER 06/03: For more information please contact the book’s author: |
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Fourth annual Henry B. Smith Memorial Diver’s Weekend 06/03: |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 3 The JOHN B. AIRD was christened in 1983 at Thunder Bay for Algoma Central Marine, Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. After successfully completing her sea trials on June 3, 1951, the CLIFFS VICTORY entered service a little under six months from the time she was purchased from the U.S.M.C. The PATERSON (1) entered service on June 3, 1954 with 440,000 bushels of wheat from Port Arthur. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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Busy day for the Rouge 06/02: Reported by: Dave Marcoux |
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Twin Ports News 06/02: Reported by: Al Miller |
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Mantadoc downbound in Canal on first trip 06/02: Reported by: J. J. Van Volkenburg |
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SLOAN in Escanaba 06/02: Reported by: Rod Burdick |
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Slow Load in Milwaukee 06/02: Reported by: Andy LaBorde |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 2 In 1973 the SYLVANIA, downbound light in fog, collided with the FRANK PURNELL just north of the Detroit River Light at 0523 hours. The SYLVANIA suffered minor bow damage and went to Toledo for repairs. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
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MV Kom at Welland Lock 6 06/01: Lines where passed from the ship to Welland Seaway personnel on shore and the ship winches were used to help the Kom back to the east wall of the canal above downbound Lock 6. She then proceeded into the lock while the Canadian Leader headed to Lock 7. Reported by: Marc & Jill Vander Meulen |
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Saginaw River Closed 06/01: Reported by: Lon Morgan |
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Duluth News 06/01: Reported by: Gary A. Putney |
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Buffalo`s Standard Elevator 06/01: Reported by: Tom Coonly |
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Today in Great Lakes History – June 1, 1998 In 1943 the IRVING S. OLDS collided with the 524 foot steamer CHARLES O. JENKINS in heavy fog 28 miles northeast of Cleveland on Lake Erie and was holed eight feet above the water line. The OLDS was able to help the badly damaged JENKINS back to Cleveland by lashing the two vessels together. After a grueling seven hours the JENKINS was beached in the outer harbor to prevent her from sinking further. The OLDS was repaired in time to carry a then-record 17,817 gross tons of iron ore on June 13, 1943 In 1952 the J.L. Mauthe was launched at Great Lakes Engineering Works, River Rouge, MI. The WHITEFISH BAY, loaded with 950,000 bushels of spring wheat, was cited as she carried the billionth metric ton of cargo through the Eisenhower Lock in 1983. JOSEPH S. YOUNG (2) Launched June 1, 1907 as a) WILPEN for the Shenango Steamship Co., a subsidiary of Shenango Furnace Co., Cleveland, OH. The H. LEE WHITE departed Sturgeon Bay light on her maiden voyage June 1, 1974 to load iron ore at Escanaba, MI for Indiana Harbor, IN. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |