City - Chicago, IL - A.B. Ward and Andy 1900

by Mike Savad

Title

City - Chicago, IL - A.B. Ward and Andy 1900

Artist

Mike Savad

Medium

Photograph - Hand Colored Photo

Description

Colorized photo from 1900
Original Title: 12th St. Bascule Bridge
Photographer: Detroit Publishing
Location: Roosevelt Road Bridge, Chicago IL

The A.B. Ward is seen crossing the Chicago Terminal Transfer Railroad Bridge over the Chicago River around 1900, between 12th and Taylor Streets. This view offers a fascinating snapshot of bustling marine traffic on the river in the early 20th century.

Built in 1866 by the Miller Brothers, Chicago's pioneering shipbuilders, the A.B. Ward was operated by the Y&L Coal Company, specializing in fueling vessels along the river. Here, she tows a crane barge used to lift buckets of coal and deposit them into waiting bunkers.

Nearby is the Andy, built by E.A. Heath for the Graham & Morton Transportation Company of Benton Harbor, Michigan. Used initially for harbor work, the Andy later shuttled tank barges for the Texas Company's refinery in Lockport. Tragically, she was crushed by ice at the refinery in 1911.

In the distance, the I.M. Weston, built by Scottish shipbuilder Duncan Robertson, can be seen. Originally from Grand Haven, Michigan, she was repurposed by the Drainage Canal Amusement Company for river excursions from 12th Street, offering passengers scenic tours of the canal.

Uploaded

October 27th, 2024

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