Nelson Mills (Propeller), U18755, aground, 15 Jul 1892

Manistique, July 16. -- The steamer HUNTER arrived here this morning with the crew of the steam barge NELSON MILLS, which was wrecked in yesterdays gale. The NILL's had left here for Detroit and when just off Naubenway yesterday afternoon, she was driven on Ten Foot Shoal, and at once filled. The crew were in a most perilous position, when the HUNTER was sighted. They were rescued with difficulty. The wreck was then towed to three and one half fathoms of water where her anchors were let go.
      Buffalo Enquirer
      July 16, 1892


      Friday morning the steambarge NELSON MILLS left S. Manistique bound for Cleveland with 435,000 feet of lumber. Shortly after leaving, a heavy gale arose at about 3 o'clock Friday afternoon as the MILLS was heading for Naubingway, where she was going to get a barge she had left there. She struck a reef which her captain knew nothing about, the rocks not being marked in the chart. She went down in 10 milutes. The MILLS struck amidship. The distress signals were at once hoisted from the mainmast and the steamer HUNTER was sighted. The HUNTER hastened to the sinking steamer. In the meantime, the crew, 17 in all, including the Captain's wife and 2 children, got into the yawl boat. In a few minutes the MILLS settled, her stern sinking completely under water and her bow resting on the reef and remaining partly above water. The HUNTER rescued the crew and ran into Naubingway. The MILLS was valued at $30,000 and insured only against fire. She was owned by Nelson Mills, Henry McMorran and Alvin Neel.
      Port Huron Daily Times
      Monday, July 18, 1892
     
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      The wrecker FAVORITE has succeeded in raising the steamer NELSON MILLS which sank near Naubingway two weeks ago.
      Port Huron Daily Times
      Thursday, July 28, 1892
     
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      Steam screw NELSON MILLS. U. S. No. 18755. Of 391 tons gross; 305 tons net. Built Vicksburg, Mich., 1870. Home port, Port Huron, Mich. 164.4 x 29.9 x 11.6 Crew of 14. Of 432 indicated horsepower. Freight service.
      Merchant Vessel List, U. S., 1903