Summary
The Beaver Islander began its 1972 season on April 20 with a heavy load of needed supplies. Harbor ice delayed its return to Charlevoix until the following week. A faulty water-cooling pump caused one engine to overheat on April 26, and the ferry was laid up for more than a week while repairs were made. It then went to the Soo on May 14 for its five-year hull inspection and was expected back from dry dock on May 19.
Evidence and limits
This is a dated operational snapshot, not a complete voyage, repair, or inspection log. The source does not identify the repair yard, inspectors, technical findings, or whether the ferry returned exactly on May 19.
Open questions
- Which company, Coast Guard, or shipyard records document the 1972 inspection and repairs?
- What route and cargo details survive for the first 1972 supply trip?
See also
Sources
- Beaver Beacon, April 1972, “Beaver Islander Ready.”Reports the crew painting the Beaver Islander and checking its machinery while harbor ice delayed the ferry season; it does not provide a departure date or mechanical inspection record.
- Beaver Beacon, March 1972, “Spring” report.Anticipates the Beaver Islander’s departure to the Soo for a five-year inspection before its 1972 schedule; the later May report supplies the observed April–May service and dry-dock interval.
- Beaver Beacon, May 1972, “Hectic Season Start.”Reports the Beaver Islander’s first trip on April 20 with supplies, delayed return because of harbor ice, an overheated engine caused by a faulty water-cooling pump on April 26, repairs lasting over a week, and the vessel’s May 14–19 Soo dry-dock period for its five-year hull inspection.