Elmer S. Dailey

Nestled in the harbor of Bridgeport, Connecticut, lies a hidden piece of maritime history: the Elmer S. Dailey. This wooden barge, originally known as the Claire B. Follette, is a testament to the industrial age and the bustling waterways of the early 20th century. As the only known surviving Erie Canal boat, it offers a unique glimpse into the past, when wooden-hulled canal boats were the backbone of transportation across the northeastern United States.

The History of the Elmer S. Dailey

The story of the Elmer S. Dailey begins in 1915 when it was constructed by William H. Follette in Tonawanda, New York. Initially named the Claire B. Follette, this barge was a vital component of the Erie Canal's extensive network, transporting materials across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. In 1928, the vessel underwent a significant transformation at the Brown Drydock on Staten Island, where it was rebuilt and renamed the Elmer S. Dailey. This renovation included the installation of two Fairbanks-Morse in-line six-cylinder diesel engines, which enhanced its capabilities and allowed it to push another barge.

The barge was owned by Stewart J. Dailey, a former mule driver on the Erie Canal who transitioned into a successful shipbuilding business. Under his ownership, the Elmer S. Dailey became a symbol of industrial progress, serving the bustling ports of the northeastern United States until 1972.

The Sinking and Current State

In the spring of 1974, the Elmer S. Dailey, along with two other barges, the Priscilla Dailey and the Berkshire No. 7, met an unfortunate fate. One of the barges began taking on water, leading to the sinking of all three in the harbor of Bridgeport. Today, the Elmer S. Dailey rests beneath the waters of the Pequonnock River, its structure deteriorating over time. Despite its submerged state, the barge holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places, recognized for its historical significance and as a rare surviving example of a wooden-hulled canal boat.

Exploring the Legacy

While the Elmer S. Dailey is not visible above water, its legacy remains an integral part of Bridgeport's maritime history. The barge's story is one of resilience and adaptation, reflecting the evolution of transportation and industry in the early 20th century. For history enthusiasts and maritime aficionados, the Elmer S. Dailey represents a tangible connection to the past, offering insights into the lives of those who worked on the Erie Canal and the vital role these vessels played in commerce and trade.

The Elmer S. Dailey's inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places underscores its importance as a cultural and historical artifact. As the only shipwreck in Connecticut with such a designation, it serves as a reminder of the state's rich maritime heritage and the enduring impact of the Erie Canal on regional development.

Preservation Efforts and Challenges

Preserving the Elmer S. Dailey presents significant challenges due to its underwater location and deteriorating condition. Efforts to document the barge have been recommended, with suggestions to archive photographs and technical descriptions at the State Historic Preservation Office and the Mystic Seaport Museum. These measures aim to ensure that the Elmer S. Dailey's story is preserved for future generations, even as the physical structure continues to decay.

In the late 1990s, the historic status of the Elmer S. Dailey and its companion barges became a point of concern for the Port Authority of Bridgeport Harbor. The sunken vessels posed obstacles to a billion-dollar redevelopment project, highlighting the complex balance between preserving history and accommodating modern development needs.

Visiting Bridgeport's Maritime Heritage

For visitors to Bridgeport, the story of the Elmer S. Dailey adds a layer of intrigue to the city's waterfront. While the barge itself may not be visible, the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities to explore Connecticut's maritime history. The nearby Housatonic Museum of Art and local historical societies provide additional context and exhibits related to the region's industrial past.

In conclusion, the Elmer S. Dailey is more than just a sunken barge; it is a symbol of a bygone era, a relic of the industrious spirit that once thrived along the Erie Canal. Its story continues to captivate those who seek to understand the complexities and triumphs of early 20th-century maritime commerce, making it a fascinating subject for exploration and reflection.