Sunday, December 31, 2023

State of Duluth Harborcams 2024

Thank you for another beautiful year of Harborcam Operations.

2023

In 2023, we installed two new cameras, one (Western Haborcam) at Lincoln Middle School and another at the Port Terminal (Cargo Connect). These two cams play an essential part in complete Duluth Harbor coverage.


Some of the live Stream Moderators have taken over camera operations and are doing an excellent job, as well as Toni, who maintains the STOWS Schedule.

Another big thank you to the business and facilities that allow us to have a camera atop their buildings.


This includes the Maritime Visitor Center, Great Lakes Aquarium, Pier B Resort Hotel, Fairlawn Mansion, AMI, the Duluth School District, Two Harbors Chamber of Commerce, Lake County Historical Society, Superior Museums, and the Army Corps of Engineers.


Another thank you goes to all visitors who come and enjoy the views every day and generously contribute to operating expenses, camera purchases, and upgrades. This would not work without your support.


2024

Going forward into 2024, with 17 live cameras, we will strive to maintain the cams in order to provide the incredible view of ships, weather, and other harbor activity that was not possible for the general public even a few years ago. My hope is that these little "Windows to the Northland" continue to provide a "virtual" escape for you and your family in 2024.

I am humbled to be part of this operation and wish you a very Happy New Year.


Thank you!
Dennis O'Hara


Friday, December 29, 2023

Thursday, December 28, 2023

"Call of the Wild" Wilfred Sykes departed Duluth 12/28/23

Blasting it's horn all the way down the canal, the Wilfred Sykes made sure everyone knew they were leaving for the season.

"Midnight Call" John D Leitch & Wilfred Sykes arrived in Duluth 12/27/2023

With a rare midnight Master Salute, the Wilfred Sykes announced its arrival as it followed the John D Leitch a few hours after it's arrival.

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

"Barker's Blast James R Barker departed Duluth 12/27/2023

James R Barker departed Duluth this evening loaded with iron ore pellets an greeted the canal visitors with a loud Master Salute.

Saturday, December 23, 2023

"FOG" John G Munson arrived in Duluth 12/23/2023

John G Munson arrived in Duluth this afternoon through thick fog to load iron ore pellets.

Thursday, December 21, 2023

"Solstice Departure" Edgar B Speer departed Duluth12/21/2023

Edgar B Speer departed Duluth on this Winter Solstice afternoon loaded with iron ore pellets.

"Pit Stop" Edwin H Gott arrived in Duluth 12/21/2023

Edwin H Gott arrived in Duluth this morning to refuel and load iron ore pellets.

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Monday, December 18, 2023

"Barker's Return" James R Barker departed Duluth 12/18/2023

James R Barker departed Duluth this evening loaded with iron ore pellets. The Barker had been in for maintenance that lasted several weeks.

"Bentleyville 2023"

With more than 5 million lights, Bentleyville has been taking home national lighting awards and bringing cheer to just as many faces this season. Enjoy this 13 minute walk through. I hope it brings you a bit of joy to you Holiday.

"The Iron Lady" Michipicoten arrived in Duluth 12/18/2023

Michipicoten arrived in Duluth this afternoon to load more iron.

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Monday, December 11, 2023

"Moving Grain" Drawsko departed & Federal Montreal arrived in Duluth 12/...

Drawsko departed & Federal Montreal arrived in Duluth for grain this afternoon with the helping hand of the mighty tugs.

Friday, December 8, 2023

Thursday, December 7, 2023

Story of the Edna G

 
  Story of the Edna G  - The Edna G was a tugboat operated on the Great Lakes for over 80 years. It was built in 1896 and was initially named the Edward H. Rozell. In 1919, the tugboat was sold to the Cleveland-Cliffs Iron Company. It was renamed the Edna G. It worked as a harbor tug, assisting large ore boats in docking and undocking at the company's Two Harbors ore docks in Minnesota. Named after the daughter, Edna Greatsinger, of the President of the Duluth & Iron Range Railroad president, this tug boat is still in operating condition. The original engine is still in place. A 1000 hp boiler was installed in the 1940's. I's steel hull was reinforced for ice-breaking duty. Operating with a crew of four, the Edna G was used around the dock to help boats dock, move boats around from dock to dock, and assist in life-saving efforts. Except for two years in WW1, Edna G has always called Two Harbors and Agate Bay her home. The Edna G was retired in 1981 and was eventually donated to Two Harbors. It was restored and is now on display as a museum ship at the Two Harbors waterfront. Visitors can tour the tugboat and learn about its history and role in the Great Lakes shipping industry. 
 Overall Length: 110 ft, 91 feet on keel 
Beam: 23 feet Height: 15.5 feet 
Rudder: 11 ft 
Draft: 15.5 feet. 

 Information provided from plaque near the tug.


Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Friday, December 1, 2023

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Monday, November 27, 2023

"Chip Off the OLD Block" Joseph L Block arrived in Duluth 11/27/2023

Joseph L Block came off the lake loaded with ice after making it's way through the Superior Gales. The Block will be loading iron ore pellets.

"On The Move" American Century, Philip R Clarke, Whitefish Bay, Walter J...

With a short break in the Lake Superior Gales, American Century, Philip R Clarke, Whitefish Bay, Walter J McCarthy Jr are on the move.

Sunday, November 26, 2023

Friday, November 24, 2023

"Barkers Bark" James R Barker arrived in Duluth 11/24/2023

James R Barker arrived in Duluth this morning with it's famous Captains Salute. The Barker will be getting some port services.

Thursday, November 23, 2023

"Building the Wall" Seawall construction timelapse 11/21/2023ws

Each steel plate is carefully placed into position and then hammered down with a pile driver.

"Thanksgiving Sunrise" Sunrise timelapse 11/23/2023

"THANK YOU" to all the viewers and moderators of Duluth Harborcams. It is such a joy to be able to operate these cameras. Happy Thanksgiving: Den

"Thanksgiving Tw-fer" John G Munson & Victory/Maumee112323

John G Munson & Victory/Maumee in hauling iron on a beautiful Thanksgiving morning.

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

"Glory" Sunrise Timelapse 11/22/2023

Sunrises over Lake Superior never seem to get old. This video is taken from four different harborcams all turned to view the sunrise.

Sunday, November 19, 2023

Saturday, November 18, 2023

"Crosswind Arrival" Clyde S VanEnkevort / Erie Trader arrived in Silver ...

Fighting strong cross winds, the Clyde S VanEnkevort / Erie Trader pushed it's way into Silver Bay to load iron ore pellets this afternoon.

Thursday, November 16, 2023

Trotman Folding Stock Anchor from the Whaleback Thomas Wilson

This anchor is on the lawn of the visitor center along the lakeshore.
From the adjoining plaque:  1892, This conventional ship anchor from the whaleback steamer Thomas Wilson, sunk a half mile outside the Duluth Piers. Recovered in 1973 by the USCC Cutter Woodrush with divers Elmer Engman, Dave Anderson, Dan Gomsn, and Paul Von Goertz. 
The anchor weighs a ton and 1/2.

You can read more about the Thomas Wilson HERE.


"Early Morning Departure" Lee A Tregurtha departed Duluth 11/16/23

Lee A Tregurtha departed Duluth for the anchorage.

"Two Ships Passing in the Night" Lee A Tregurtha & Arthur M Anderson 11/...

Lee A Tregurtha & Arthur M Anderson traversed the Duluth Superior Harbor on a moonless night.

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Saturday, November 11, 2023

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

" Tug Along" Philip R Clarke arrived in Duluth 11/01/2023

Philip R Clarke arrived in Duluth this morning with a little help from the super tug, Hellen H. The Clarke headed in to the Port Terminal for port services.

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

"First Snow" Arthur M Anderson arrived in Duluth 10/30/2023

Arthur M Anderson arrived in Duluth shortly after a passing snow squall blanketed the city as a reminder of the beautiful season ahead.

Sunday, October 29, 2023

Monday, October 23, 2023

"Jeffery's Dilemma" Stuck gull on the lamp post 10/23/2023

 
After somehow getting his webbed feet stuck in the light housing, Jeffery was rescued by the Duluth Fire Department (thank you). He should be back at the popcorn wagon in no time.

Sunday, October 22, 2023

Friday, October 20, 2023

Tuesday, October 17, 2023

"October Sunrise" Timelapse10/17/2023

Mornings break over Lake Superior with incredible beauty. I great way to start your day!

"2 X 1000 Footers" Paul R Tregurtha departed & Walter J McCarthy Jr arri...

Paul R Tregurtha departed with coal & Walter J McCarthy Jr arrived for iron ore pellets Monday evening.

Monday, October 16, 2023

"Just Passing By" Mesabi Miner 10/16/2023.

Mesabi Miner transiting the front channel going to BN to load iron ore pellets.

Friday, October 13, 2023

Thursday, October 12, 2023

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

"Evening Departures" State Of Michigan, Jamno & Volgaborg departed Dulut...

State Of Michigan, Jamno & Volgaborg departed Duluth Monday evening under to Duluth Lift Bridge lit in pink for breast cancer awareness.

Sunday, October 8, 2023

"Blast from the Past" John G Munson arrived in Duluth 10/08/2023

Build in 1952, the John G Munson arrived in Duluth this afternoon with a load of limestone and a Master Salute.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

"October Sunrise" time-lapse 10/03/2023

With color to match the autumn landscape, this mornings sunrise was breathtaking.

Thursday, September 28, 2023

50 Years Old!

 Congratulations to the Lake Superior Marine Museum for turning 50 today.

Rangers Jeanette, Kaylee, and Hannah treated visitors to some cake and coffee to celebrate.



"Quick Trip" Mesabi Miner arrived in Duluth 09/28/2023

Mesabi Miner arrived in Duluth this morning for some port services.

"Big Boy" Maxima arrived in Duluth 09/28/2023

After a week anchoring outside the harbor, Maxima made it's way into port to load grain.

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

"Grand Old Lady" Kaye E Barker departed Duluth 09/27/2023

Kaye E Barker departed Duluth this morning. Built in 1952, the Kaye E Barker has been a pleasant site for more than 70 years.

Monday, September 25, 2023

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

"Munson Salute" John G Munson departed Duluth 09/20/2023

With a prolonged salute, the John G Munson showed off it powerful horn to a delighted crowd at the Canal. The Munson departed loaded with iron ore pellets.

Sunday, September 17, 2023

Friday, September 15, 2023

Thursday, September 14, 2023

"The Fleet Departs" Fishing boats deploy from Duluth 09/14/2023

The crisp morning air carried the sound of boats departing through the canal for a day of fishing. The sun had just risen, casting an orange and pink glow across the sky. Seeing the fishing fleet leaving the port of Duluth, ready to release their lines and bring back their catch was a beautiful sight. The calm seas will likely produce a memorable experience and more than enough fish.

"Harbor Arrivals" Philip R Clarke, Michipicoten, & Mesabi Miner arrived ...

Philip R Clarke, Michipicoten, & Mesabi Miner arrived in Duluth on a warm September afternoon.

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

"Anchors Aweigh" Viking Polaris departed Duluth 09/12/2023

The Viking Polaris departed Duluth Tuesday evening with passengers bound for Antarctica.

Tuesday, September 12, 2023

"Polaris Arrival" Viking Polaris arrived in Duluth 09/12/2023

Viking Polaris arrived in Duluth this morning to greet passengers from around the world that will be embarking on a 71 day cruise to Antarctica and beyond.

Saturday, September 9, 2023

"Silent Departure" Federal St Laurent departed Duluth 09/09/2023


Federal St Laurent departed Duluth early this morning loaded with iron ore pellets for overseas.

Thursday, September 7, 2023

"Dancing with the Tugs" Federal St. Laurent arrived in Duluth on 09/07/2023

Federal St. Laurent arrived in Duluth this afternoon to load iron ore pellets.

"Master of the Lakes" John G Munson departed Duluth 9/07/2023

The John G. Munson departed Duluth with iron ore. As one of the few remaining steam-powered vessels still in operation, the Munson is a fascinating piece of maritime history. Its reliability and longevity are a testament to the skill and dedication of the crew who maintain and operate this remarkable vessel, which is still a vital part of the Great Lakes shipping industry, transporting bulk cargo like coal across the region.

"Mighty Miner" Mesabi Miner departed Duluth 9/07/2023

The Mesabi Miner departed Duluth this morning loaded with iron ore pellets. This massive ship is a sight as it navigates through the Duluth-Superior Harbor. It's always impressive to see such a gigantic vessel in action and think about how much cargo it can carry. The Mesabi Miner is a true workhorse of the Great Lakes and a testament to the engineering expertise that goes into creating such a magnificent vessel. As it sets sail, it reminds us of the importance of shipping in our economy and its vital role in transporting goods across North America. Safe travels to the crew of the Mesabi Miner!

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

"Red White & Blue" Michipicoten arrived in Duluth 09/05/2023

Michipicoten arrived in Duluth early this morning with the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge lit up in Red White & Blue.

Monday, September 4, 2023

"Labor Day 2-fer" Paul R Tregurtha, American Century in Duluth 09/04/2023

Paul R Tregurtha, American Century trading places at the coal dock.

"Big Ships Moving Overnight" Duluth 09/03/2023

Philip R Clarke, American Century, Indiana Harbor and Arthur M Anderson arrived in Duluth overnight. The Indiana Harbor departed for Two Harbors after refueling.

Sunday, September 3, 2023

Friday, September 1, 2023

"Just Sailing" Duluth 08/30/2023

I was going to speed this up and run it in a few minutes, but, I found myself just relaxing and enjoying the view. I hope it does the same for you.

"Morning Departure" John G Munson 09/01/2023

The John G Munson quietly slipped out of port Friday loaded with iron ore pellets.

Thursday, August 31, 2023

Wednesday, August 30, 2023

"Big Red" Edwin H Gott arrived in Duluth 08/30/2023

 
Edwin H Gott arrived in Duluth Port Terminal today for an unknown visit.

"Moonlit Arrival" Edwin H Gott arrived in Two Harbors 08/30/2023

Edwin H Gott arrived in Two Harbors with calm seas and a moonlit night.

In Agate Bay, where waters kiss the shore, The Edwin H Gott laker comes once more. Her steel frame etched by moon’s ethereal glow, She sails with purpose, steady and slow. Two Harbors waits, a haven in the night, A peaceful port 'neath heaven’s silver light. Guiding her in, with strength in full display, She finds her way as darkness starts to sway. The cargo waits—iron ore’s heavy song, A tale of journeys, both arduous and long. Yet for this moment, all is calm and still, As moonbeams dance on water, hill to hill. In silent grace, she docks without a sound, While sleepy Two Harbors barely stirs around. In Agate Bay, where past and present meet, The Edwin H Gott rests—her voyage complete. ---- Anonymous ----

"Pit Stop" Michipicoten arrived in Duluth 083023

Michipicoten arrived early this morning and refueled prior to loading.

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

"Triple Bypass" H Lee White, Federal Yukina & Walter J McCarthy Jr in Du...

H Lee White, Federal Yukina & Walter J McCarthy Jr carefully navigated the waters of the Duluth Harbor on a warm summer evening.

Friday, August 25, 2023

"The Old Man and the Sea" Arthur M Anderson arrived in Duluth 08/25/2023

The Arthur M Anderson, Built in 1952, arrived in Duluth with a Master Salute on a warm August Afternoon. Not too long ago, the Anderson arrived in more challenging weather in a tribute to the Edmund Fitzgerald.    • Arthur M Anderson Master Salute to th...  

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

"Sailing maneuvers" Vezhen departed Duluth 08/23/2023

Vezhen departed Duluth scattering the arriving armada of Wednesday night sailboats.

Monday, August 21, 2023

"Tug Along" BBC Utah arrived in Duluth 08/21/2023

After spending a week anchored outside Duluth, the BBC Utah finally made it into the harbor to load grain.

Friday, August 18, 2023

"Vikings Escape" Viking Octantis departed Duluth 08/18/2023

After a raid on gift shops and restaurants in Duluth, the Viking Octantis escaped through the Duluth Shipping Canal this evening. (actually they paid for their loot)

Camera Fund Fundraiser Honor Roll

Thank you very much for you generous support of these cameras. Happy Viewing!

"Just Passing Through" John G Munson, Barge Ecosse, Viking Octantis arr...

John G Munson, Barge Ecosse, Viking Octantis arrived in Duluth overnight.

Thursday, August 17, 2023

"Feeding the World" Vezhen arrived in Duluth 08/17/2023

Vezhen arrived in Duluth to load grain for overseas ports.

2023 Camera Fundraiser

 2023 Camera Fundraiser


Unexpected high maintenance costs this summer has depleted our camera fund.  

My hope is that we can build the the camera fund back up to $3000 in order to cover continuing operations, maintenance and emergency repair.

As always, thank your generous and faithful support of the harborcams.

Dennis O'Hara

" Midnight Maneuvers" Edwin H Gott arrived in Two Harbors 08/17/2023

Entering Two Harbors on a dark windy night displays the skill of maneuvering the 1000 ft Edwin H Gott into the dark harbor.

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

"Leviathan" Mesabi Miner arrived in Duluth 08/15/2023

Leviathan - A Sea Monster - Mesabi Miner arrived in Duluth this morning to load iron ore pellets.

Monday, August 14, 2023

"Catch Your Breath" sunrise 08/14/2023

Every Day is a gift from God, take time to "Catch Your Breath" and enjoy life.

Sunday, August 13, 2023

Daybreak081323


Have a great day!

O satisfy us in the morning with Your lovingkindness,
That we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. Psalm 90:14

Thursday, August 10, 2023

Saturday, August 5, 2023

Friday, August 4, 2023

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

"Loud & Proud" John G Munson arrived in Duluth 08/01/2023

With a double salute, the John G Munson arrived in Duluth this afternoon to load blast furnace trim.

Thursday, July 27, 2023

Monday, July 24, 2023

"Hazy Arrival" James R Barker arrived in Duluth 07/24/2023

With a light haze of smoke from wildfires in Canada, the James R Barker arrived in Duluth to load iron ore pellets.

Friday, July 21, 2023

Thursday, July 20, 2023

"A Superior Rainbow" - Duluth Canal 07/19/2023

A stunningly beautiful rainbow appeared over Lake Superior after the passing storms last evening. The music "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" from the Wizard of Oz is played on the piano by a good friend Mary Beth Carlson who passed away in 2021. Mary Beth and here husband Kent enjoyed many hours watching Lake Superior from their home on Burlington Bay. 
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The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Psalm 19

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

"Incoming" Federal Montreal, Paul R Tregurtha, Hon James L Oberstar arr...

Federal Montreal, Paul R Tregurtha, Hon James L Oberstar arrived in Duluth Tuesday evening to the delight of many boat watchers.

Monday, July 17, 2023

"Farewell Blue Angels" Blue Angels departed Duluth 07/17/2023

After a thrilling weekend at the Duluth Airshow, the Navy Blue Angles made some noise as they departed Duluth until next time.

Sunday, July 16, 2023

"The Turn" James R Barker arrived in Silver Bay 07/16/2023

James R Barker arrived in Silver Bay making a sweeping 20 degree turn to back into North Shore Mining.

"Lakers, Freighters, & a Wedding - Duluth 7/15/2023 (republished)

The Indiana Harbor arrived, the Vectis Progress departed and a wedding took place at the end of the pier at Duluth Shipping Canal.

Friday, July 14, 2023

Monday, July 10, 2023

Friday, July 7, 2023

Wednesday, July 5, 2023

Duluth 4th of July Fireworks Display 07/04/2023

Thousands of visitors and locals alike enjoyed the traditional 4th of July Fireworks Display celebration Independence Day 2023

Tuesday, July 4, 2023

"July 4th Boats" - Paul R Tregurtha, John G Munson, Walter J McCarthy Jr...

Paul R Tregurtha, John G Munson, Walter J McCarthy Jr entertained thousands of tourist as they transited the Duluth Shipping Canal.

Monday, July 3, 2023

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

"Old Boats & New" HANSEATIC INSPIRATION arrived & Michipicoten departed ...

HANSEATIC INSPIRATION arrived (with passengers) & Michipicoten departed Duluth (with iron ore pellets). early this morning.

Sunday, June 25, 2023

Friday, June 23, 2023

Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Arthur M Anderson, Philip R Clarke & John G Munson arrived In Duluth 6/2...

Arthur M Anderson, Philip R Clarke & John G Munson arrived In Duluth today in a rare convergence of Great Lakes Fleet boats.

Monday, June 19, 2023

"Floating in Concrete" The Federal Biscay arrived in Duluth 06/19/2023

The Federal Biscay arrived in Duluth this evening loaded with much needed concrete for the Midwest. The concrete is from Turkey.

Sunday, June 18, 2023

"Shiver Me Timbers" James R Barker arrived in town - 06/18/2023

With it's famous Captains Salute, the James R Barker raised a ruckus as she arrive in Duluth to load iron ore pellets.

Saturday, June 17, 2023

"Marathon Boat" Michipicoten arrived in Duluth 06/17/2023

Michipicoten arrived in Duluth this afternoon in presence of thousands of Grandma's Marathon fans attending the Bayfront Festival

Friday, June 16, 2023

William A Irvin 5K running race start 06/16/2023

While running isn't really part of this channel, the William A Irvin is a classic Laker and the start happens to be right in front of the GLA cam.

"Morning Saltie" Aujaq arrived in Duluth 06/16/2023

Aujaq arrived in Duluth this morning with containers.

Thursday, June 15, 2023

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

"Just Passing" Paul R Tregurtha & American Century 06/14/2023

Two 1000 ft ships take up a lot of harbor space when passing. The Paul R Tregurtha & American Century skillfully navigate the harbors. The hazing conditions is due to fires in Canada.

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

Monday, June 12, 2023

Saturday, June 10, 2023

Friday, June 9, 2023

"Welcome Aboard" Ocean Navigator arrived in Duluth 06/09/2023

Ocean Navigator arrived in Duluth this morning with passengers for a pleasant visit to the Northland.

Sunday, June 4, 2023

"Double Header" Hanseatic Inspiration & Hon James L Oberstar departed Du...

Hanseatic Inspiration & Hon James L Oberstar departed Duluth on a warm summer evening.

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Arthur M Anderson, HANSEATIC Inspiration, & Walter J McCarthy Jr made for a great morning triple header of boats.

Thursday, June 1, 2023

"Moving Iron" Mesabi Miner, Walter J McCarthy Jr, & Michipicoten 06/01/2023

Mesabi Miner & Michipicoten departed Duluth this afternoon loaded with iron ore pellets, while the Walter J McCarthy Jr arrived to load iron ore pellets.

"The Queen Arrives" Paul R Tregurtha arrived in Duluth 06/01/2023

Paul R Tregurtha arrived in Duluth this morning to load coal

Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Tuesday, May 30, 2023

Saturday, May 27, 2023

"Superior Traveler" Michipicoten arrived in Duluth 05/27/2023

Michipicoten arrived in Duluth on one of its many voyages from one side of Lake Superior to the other hauling iron ore pellets.

Thursday, May 25, 2023

The North Pier Lighthouse: Guiding Ships and Preserving History in Duluth

 


One of the most prominent points of interest on the Canal Cam is the North Pier Lighthouse. The lighthouse is a historical gem of maritime safety. With a century-old legacy, it has guided ships and captured the hearts of visitors. So let's delve into the captivating story of the North Pier Lighthouse.



Constructed in 1910 by architect Oliver G. Traphagen, the North Pier Lighthouse was built to aid ships entering Duluth Harbor. It has since become a cherished landmark, embodying Duluth's rich maritime heritage.

Equipped with a Fourth Order Fresnel lens, the lighthouse's powerful beam guided ships through foggy nights and stormy weather, ensuring their safe passage. Its contribution to maritime safety cannot be overstated.



 Despite facing challenges, dedicated organizations and enthusiasts have kept the North Pier Lighthouse. Restoration efforts have maintained its structural integrity and original charm.

The lighthouse's striking red hue against the backdrop of Lake Superior makes it a visual delight. Visitors can capture its timeless beauty from vantage points along the shoreline and nearby parks.



Located near Canal Park, the North Pier Lighthouse offers easy access for locals and tourists. While visitors cannot enter the lighthouse, they can enjoy scenic walks along the pier and appreciate its significance.



The North Pier Lighthouse represents Duluth's maritime heritage, guiding ships, and captivating visitors. Preserved with care, it symbolizes the bravery of sailors and the enduring connection between Duluth and Lake Superior.

Monday, May 22, 2023

"Honorable Mention" - Hon James L Oberstar departed Duluth 05/22/2023

Hon James L Oberstar departed Duluth this evening loaded with Iron ore pellets.

The Duluth Shipping Canal: Gateway to the Great Lakes

 Introduction

The waterway you see before you on the Canal Cam is located at the far western end of Lake Superior in Minnesota, the Duluth Shipping Canal has served as a crucial gateway between the Atlantic Ocean and the North American heartland for centuries. The canal is an engineering marvel, a testament to human ingenuity, and a centerpiece of Duluth's industrial and cultural history.


Historical Background

The Duluth Shipping Canal came into existence in the late 19th century. Its construction was motivated by a need to facilitate the flow of goods and raw materials across Lake Superior. This objective was becoming increasingly significant due to the booming industry in the region. Iron ore, grain, timber, and coal were in high demand and required an efficient transportation route.

Two entrepreneurs, William Austin, and John D. Ray, began the canal project unofficially in 1870. They took the rather bold step of digging a canal across Minnesota Point, a thin sand spit separating the St. Louis River from Lake Superior. Their action was initially controversial and only partially legal. However, the benefits of the new route became immediately apparent, and the canal soon received official sanction.


Engineering Marvel

The canal was initially a simple, man-made cut through the sand spit. However, the risk of sand filling the channel and the high waves of Lake Superior threatened its usability. This led to the construction of two parallel piers extending into the lake, ensuring that the canal remained open and navigable. The iconic Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge was later added in 1905, initially as an aerial transfer bridge, before it was altered to its current design in 1930.

The Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. It operates by lifting a section of the roadway vertically to allow ships to pass underneath, rather than using a traditional drawbridge design. When raised, a clearance of 180 feet will enable even the most massive lake freighters to pass through.


Economic Importance

Since its inception, the Duluth Shipping Canal has been central to the region's economy. Serving as the entry point to the Duluth-Superior Harbor, the largest and farthest-inland freshwater port in North America, the canal plays a significant role in North American trade routes. Annually, it sees over 900 vessel visits and handles around 35 million short tons of cargo.

The raw materials transported through this gateway, such as iron ore, coal, and grain, are vital to industries across the continent. This constant flow of goods fuels the economy, supports jobs, and provides resources for industries far removed from the shores of Lake Superior.


Cultural Significance

Over the years, the canal and the adjacent Canal Park have become cultural hubs of Duluth. Canal Park, once an industrial warehouse area, has been transformed into a bustling district filled with restaurants, shops, and hotels. Visitors can watch ships pass, learn about the area's history at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, or enjoy the beautiful lakeside scenery.

The sight of massive freighters silently gliding through the canal, yards away from spectators, is genuinely something to behold. This daily spectacle has turned the shipping canal into a significant tourist attraction, and watching the ships has become a beloved pastime for locals and visitors.


Conclusion

The Duluth Shipping Canal is not just a man-made waterway but a lifeline connecting North America's heartland with the world. As we look towards the future, the canal's importance as a center of commerce, transportation, and culture will remain. Its history is a testament to the innovation and resilience of those who dared to dream, and its future holds the promise of continued relevance and vibrancy in an ever-changing world.