The Great Lakes and the SS Carl D. Bradley

Overview of the Great Lakes

• The Great Lakes are large, dangerous, and crucial for US and Canada.
• They aid in transporting over 160 million tons of cargo annually.

The SS Carl D. Bradley

Construction and Specifications

• Built: 1923-1927 at American Shipbuilding Company in Lorain, Ohio.
• Maiden Voyage: July 1927.
• Length: 639 feet; Beam: 19.9 meters; Draft: 9.2 meters.
• Weight: 10,028 tons; Crew: 35.
• Powered by two coal-fired boilers, producing 4,800 horsepower.
• First fully electric ship in the Bradley fleet.

Career Highlights

• Title of "Queen of the Lakes" for 22 years.
• Primarily transported limestone from Michigan to other Great Lakes ports.
• Notable for self-unloading capabilities, using a 180-foot boom.
• Survived through the Depression and WWII.

Final Voyage

• Departed Gary, Indiana, on November 17, 1958.
• Was en route to dry dock but diverted for one last cargo haul.
• Encountered severe weather with winds 40-55 knots.

Sinking of the SS Carl D. Bradley

Sequence of Events

• Ship broke apart amid a storm on November 18, 1958.
• A loud thud signaled the break, leading to the sinking.
• Emergency mayday was sent but quickly lost communication.

Rescue Efforts

• Only two crew members survived: Elmer Fleming and Frank Mays.
• Rescues hampered by severe weather conditions.
• Total of 17 bodies were recovered from the disaster.

Investigation and Findings

• US Coast Guard investigated the incident.
• Significant hull damage and rust were found, with recommendations for better inspections and safety equipment.
• 1997 exploration confirmed the ship broke into two parts during sinking.

Legacy

• Significant impact on Rogers City, Michigan, with 20 out of 33 deceased crew from there.
• Recommendations for better safety measures on future vessels.
• Survivors' testimony initially doubted but later confirmed.

Acknowledgments and Further Information

• The presentation thanked the Presque Isle County Historical Museum for their support and information.
• The speaker expressed gratitude for the audience's support and provided links for further engagement and merchandise.