William A. Irvin

Step aboard the SS William A. Irvin, a majestic lake freighter moored in the bustling port city of Duluth, Minnesota. This grand vessel, named after William A. Irvin, once a prominent figure in the United States Steel Corporation, offers a unique glimpse into the golden age of Great Lakes shipping. The William A. Irvin is not just a ship; it is a floating museum, a testament to the engineering marvels and maritime history that defined an era.

The History of the William A. Irvin

The SS William A. Irvin was launched on November 21, 1937, at the American Ship Building Company in Lorain, Ohio. She embarked on her maiden voyage on June 25, 1938, amidst the challenging backdrop of the Great Depression. This vessel was the first of a distinguished four-vessel class, including Governor Miller, John Hulst, and Ralph H. Watson. Each of these ships cost approximately $1.3 million to build, a significant investment at the time.

Named after the fourth president of US Steel, the ship was christened by William Irvin's wife, Gertrude Irvin. The William A. Irvin quickly became the flagship of the US Steel fleet, renowned for its technological advancements and luxurious accommodations. It was not just a workhorse of the Great Lakes but also a vessel of prestige, often hosting company guests in its opulent guest quarters.

Exploring the William A. Irvin

As you step onto the William A. Irvin, you are immediately transported back to a time when lake freighters were the lifeblood of the Great Lakes region. The ship's exterior, with its striking red hull, stands as a proud symbol of maritime heritage. Inside, the ship is a labyrinth of historical treasures, from the oak-paneled guest quarters to the brass-adorned engine room.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the William A. Irvin is its three-tiered bow cabin, a unique feature among lake freighters. This extra deck houses four guest cabins and a guest lounge, all meticulously preserved to reflect the ship's heyday. The guest dining room, located where the number two hatch would typically be, is a testament to the ship's dual role as both a freighter and a floating hotel.

The Engine Room

The heart of the William A. Irvin lies in its engine room, a marvel of early 20th-century engineering. Unlike older ore-carrying ships of the period, which relied on massive reciprocating engines, the William A. Irvin is powered by geared steam-turbine engines. These engines, fueled by coal from a gravity-fed bunker, generate steam that propels the ship at speeds of up to 12.5 mph when empty.

The engine room is a maze of pipes, valves, and gauges, all meticulously maintained to preserve the ship's operational integrity. Communication between the pilothouse and the engine room was facilitated by the Chadburn telegraph and sound-powered telephones, ensuring seamless coordination during the ship's voyages.

Loading and Unloading

The William A. Irvin was designed to carry up to 14,000 tons of iron ore, primarily in the processed taconite form. Loading and unloading this massive cargo was a feat of engineering, accomplished through 18 hatches on deck. Each hatch was covered by a steel cover weighing 5.5 tons, which had to be lifted off using a hatch crane. The cargo was then dumped into three holds, a process that typically took three to four hours.

Unloading was equally impressive, with the use of Hulett cranes that could reach into the holds and grab up to 15 tons of ore at a time. This efficient system ensured that the William A. Irvin could quickly turn around and head back out to the open waters of the Great Lakes.

The William A. Irvin Today

Today, the William A. Irvin serves as a museum ship, moored at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. It offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of Great Lakes shipping and experience the grandeur of a bygone era. The ship's inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989 is a testament to its significance in the themes of engineering, maritime history, and transportation.

Each year, the ship also lends its name to the William A. Irvin 5K race, held during the Grandma's Marathon weekend. This event attracts nearly 2,000 runners who race along a course that begins and ends at the iconic red hull of the ship, celebrating both the vessel's legacy and the spirit of the Duluth community.

In conclusion, the SS William A. Irvin is more than just a retired freighter; it is a living museum, a symbol of industrial prowess, and a cherished landmark in Duluth. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a maritime aficionado, or simply looking for a unique experience, a visit to the William A. Irvin promises to be an unforgettable journey through time.