The Strange Transformation of a Great Lakes Steam Ship

I found the first 2 photos below on Shorpy.com and did some research to find more information about this ship.

The SEEANDBEE, once the largest and most costly inland steamer, began its career on the Great Lakes in 1912.  The 500 feet, 6,381 gross tons, all steel ship could hold 1,500 passengers on its 4 decks.  One of its features was an elegant ballroom.  It was built for, and originally operated by, the Cleveland & Buffalo Transit Co., a steamship and trucking firm.

This following 2 photos were taken on November 9, 1912 when the Seeandbee was launched from dry dock in Wyandotte, Michigan.

Someone pointed out that the flatcar wheel is dated 1888.  Now that's paying attention to detail.

 The name of the ship was selected by contest.  Seeandbee stood for C&B -- Cleveland and Buffalo -- the transportation company that owned her.

1917

On its maiden voyage it carried members of the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce to Buffalo. Regular trips began in 1913 from the E. 9th St. pier. The Seeandbee operated on a Cleveland-Buffalo route, with special cruises to additional ports such as Detroit and Chicago. It was the pride of the Cleveland and Buffalo Transit Co., and a consistent moneymaker on its summer cruises. 

1919

 

The S.S. Seeandbee docked in Buffalo, ca. 1930. Cleveland Press Collection, CSU Archives.

A film titled "Merit Club Cruise on Board SS Seeandbee" from the National Archive can be see here.


 In 1939, the liquidation of the Transit Co. began due to the firm's heavy losses in 1938. That year the Seeandbee was sold to the C&B Transit Co. of Chicago. The Seeandbee operated on a regular schedule through 1941.

In 1942 the Seeandbee was acquired by the navy and converted into the USS Wolverine. The Wolverine served as an aircraft carrier  training ship in Lake Michigan during World War II and shortly thereafter was scrapped. 

In Chicago Harbor, August 22, 1942

At anchor in Lake Michigan, 1943

Amazing!