The John Ericcson, was launched by the American Steel Barge Company for its own fleet, W. Superior Wisconsin, July 11, 1896. The vessel was transferred to the Bessemer Steamship Company later the same year.
The John Ericcson was one of the only true whaleback steamers as it carried its bridge structure forward. All the rest had aft cabins.
In 1930, the John Ericcson was transferred to the Schneider Steamship Company, which in turn, sold it to James Playfair of Midland for his Great Lakes Transit Corporation Limited.
In 1931, the ship was owned by the Midland Steamship Company and used for general shipping in and out of the Port of Midland.
René Hackstetter, March 26, 2021.
