Fred McBrier
| Depth: | 84′ to 100′ |
|---|---|
| Dimensions: | 161′ x 31′ x 12′ |
| Cargo: | Iron ore |
| Cause of Sinking: | Collision with propeller Progress |
| Built: | 1881, F.W. Wheeler, West Bay City, Michigan |
| Date Lost: | October 3, 1890 |
| Construction: | Wooden bulk cargo carrier |
| Propulsion: | Steam propeller |
| Skill Level: | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Location: | N45° 48.342′ W084° 55.301′ |
History
This small steamer was built in West Bay City, MI in 1881, and spent her career towing schooner-barges as a means of increasing her per-trip capacity. On her final trip she was westbound in the Straits with a load of iron ore, towing the schooner-barges J.B. Lozen and A. Stewart. In the darkness, there was confusion over passing signals with the oncoming propeller Progress, and the resulting collision sent the McBrier to the bottom quickly, but without loss of life.
St. Ignace diver Jim Ryerse led the group that located the McBrier in 1967 about 9 miles west of the Mackinac Bridge.
Present Condition
The McBrier sits upright, her stern is intact with engine and boiler in place, but the decks have shifted to port towards the bow. Mast sections lay alongside, and many small artifacts are scattered about.
Mooring Buoy Status
This buoy was reinstalled May 11, 2023. The mooring runs to a helix anchor off the starboard side, straight out from the engine. A guideline extends from this mooring to the boiler piping in case of poor visibility.
Photos of the Fred McBrier
For an interactive 3D view by Ken Merryman, click HERE
