When I see the alert for new content on your channel I know good things await!This was interesting Don and your guest is a very gregarious guy ,as are most sailors.Keep em coming!
Thank you, Don and Ferrell for this interview. Bruce Hudson was a handsome man and was clearly a fun friend to spend time with. My cousin owned a '74 Challenger and, man...that thing flew!
@@ripperace I know that there are friends from high school still alive that knew Bruce. I would love to hear what they say and also any cadets that knew David Weiss. I have a theory that he was on the bridge when she sank wanting to go out to secure the hatch and vents. It makes sense that the captain said don’t let nobody on deck and since the cowboy was the only crewman that I know of who had a actual beard, would have worn a set of coveralls, I think he was the body that Shannon found on his dive. The description of what they saw fits this to a tee! I’m sure I’m wrong but it makes sense
@ no we never will, but after watching this video I got to thinking, if Bruce had his cabin in the aft section, would that mean that it’s probably totally destroyed since the aft area was found upside down? I know his cabin was described as the one every young crew member went to off duty. He had a tv, and a really cool radio to play all his favorite music. It’s described by his mom as a fraternity type feel. I could just imagine all the deckhands meeting there and maybe one or two would sneak off to the fantail to smoke a joint and drink some beer! He was the man on board! The older crew members would hang out in the mess deck playing card games and smoking cigars and of course’s they had a little bit of beer too!!!
@@robertschultz6922 I’d have to say either destroyed, or buried in the lake floor. Seeing as how the bow was buried, what, 28 or so feet into the floor, I’d have to assume the rear is at least that deep. All the pics and videos I’ve ever seen of the stern just shows the hull, and that’s it. One can assume it’s pretty well sunk in the lake floor.
I’m 23, with a Dodge Challenger. I’d definitely do this job still knowing the risks. I feel like me and Bruce would be great buds if I were alive back then. 🙏
I was 8 yrs, old, when the his ship went Down 😢,& Remember them guys, a few came my Elementary school to talk about the Big ships & workings,, Bruce was probably one of them guys, can't Remember who tho, if he was one or not that showed up
Just came across this. Remember song from childhood and hear it now at least once a week at bankshots in Bakersfield ca. Thank you for keeping these memories alive.
You're welcome! Thanks for your support from Bakersfield. "Winding your way down on Baker Street...Light in your head and dead on your feet...another crazy day..."
Another great video HHM. Appreciate the heartfelt memories of a vibrant, energetic young man so full of life. These crew members will never be forgotten as long we are talking about them and remembering the lives lived from the friends, wives, sons and daughters. Love your channel.
Simply put, this was great. We can all remember those carefree days drinking beers, listening to tunes and shooting the yit. Life was simpler and then tragedy strikes. So tough...
HMM, as always a Heartfelt Thank You and Hand Salute! Over the years I've read most of the books about the Fitzgerald but the interviews and history you do is tops. Very amazing and I always come away with a lot that I didn't know and was glad to learn more. Thank You Once again and Be Safe!
😊 Great video sir!! Thank you and Mr. Farrell as well. I'm sure there were many tears when friends of Bruce and all the crew perished 😢. This should be a movie made to benefit the Fitz and her crews legacy and mariners in need.😊
What a truly wonderful video Don. Your guest did a great job. As you know, this past Summer I ventured up to Whitefish Bay and the Shipwreck Museum. While walking on the beach, I came across a little memorial of several Fitz crew members. One of them was Bruce Hudson. There was a picture of him. It was quite touching to say the least. Again, really enjoyed watching this one.
Great video as always Don! It was fun listening Farrell talking about Bruce who was no doubt an awesome friend. I can't wait to see the next video about him
What a wonderful tribute and insight to Bruce Hudson. Don, with each new video I really enjoy and appreciate your willingness to dig just a little deeper for the stories of these men. It is really a testament to your investigative abilities that we all get to respectfully know each of them a little more. As you said, those who lived and worked with these men are becoming scarce with each passing season. Keep up the great work Sir!
What a wonderful video and so much information! Thanks @History Mystery Man for finding this gentleman and interviewing him and sharing with us! Waiting for part 2!!
Another home run and wonderfully magnificent interview Don. God bless Mr. Farrell for sharing his stories and documenting yet another personal chapter in keeping the memory of Bruce, the crew and the Big Fitz alive. Nice to see you edit in the photo of the Hudson’s Burns Rd. house across the street from mine, as well as Bruce’s infamous Charger. It was a great place to grow up. I remain hopeful and look forward to a time when we can connect next time I’m in Toledo to visit the Great Lakes Museum again. Job superbly well done once again sir. Have a blessed holiday season.
Thanks Jeff...nice to hear from you again. I remember our conversations about Bruce...being that you grew up in the same hood. What is your most vivid memory of Bruce? Any specifics? Do you recall what he sounded like? Thanks again...HMM
This is another great and accurate interview . These guys are my age and you know they had family and friends . You still feel sorry for the relatives and friends no matter what.
@@robertschultz6922 Should have one or two more coming out with Bruce Hudson's friend Farrell Spence...then at least two more behind that with Capt. Darrell...
Such a great video! It’s so interesting to hear these stories and it helps to have a better understanding of how these individual crewmen were. Keep up the great work, Don!!
These sailors who worked on the great lakes prior to the mid 1990s are true men. The job got done, any complaints that may have arose on a ship between crew members were resolved on the vesell, and the end result was disputed, resolved, settled, and a handshake was respected and honored more than any official write up on a piece of paper ever would have resolved or settled. No one ever dareD to say the phrase..." IM GONNA TAKE YOU TO COURT MAN" and afterward expect a pat on the back. That type of threat with legal consequenses would alienate one from the rest of the crew forever
So true. In my time on the Great Lakes in the 70s and 80s, it never got back to the office; it was always settled on the stern...and it wasn't always pretty. Thanks for your support...HMM
I was wondering what the next video you posted would be about and this interview with Farrell Spence didn't disappoint. I know you have provided some insight into Bruce Hudson's life in previous videos, but it was cool to hear from somebody that knew Bruce (and even lived with him). Bruce was born less than a year before my Mom, so I can identify with that generation and the lifestyle at that time. It seems like a lot of people of that generation, especially in their youth worked hard and partied hard, Bruce was no different. Farrell's info on the Fitz, especially how clean it was interesting and the fact that one of the boats he worked on was the ARMCO is cool. Capt. Darrell mentions that boat multiple times in your videos and getting to see her in person (albeit in lay-up) was cool. Hoping she returns to service instead of heading to my home town of Port Colborne to be scrapped. Anyways thanks for keeping Bruce's memory alive and the memory of the Fitz alive. Looking forward to part 2!
The 70s was a fascinating decade...my absolute favorite. My kids seemed fascinated with it too...always asking me questions about it. The Armco is now the American Valor and is currently laid up in Toledo. I'm thinking her life may be over; it's been sitting here for 16 years...rusting away. Anyway...you're welcome on Bruce Hudson; thanks again, Gregg for all your support...HMM
No doubt the 70's was an interesting time from what I've heard. Although I was just a toddler, I grew up in the 80's & 90's. And yeah I seen the ARMCO/ American Valor/ Valo there right by/ almost under the bridge and sadly you could very well be right about her fate. And no problem, I'm really enjoy you're new season of Fitz/ Great Lakes content.
Love these Edmund Fitzgerald videos and it’s so cool you got to meet and interview someone who knew Bruce but also stepped foot on the mighty fitz. To me I imagine stepping on the fitz must have felt like a bolt of lightning going through me. Ever since I started watching your videos I’ve been obsessed with learning as much about the fitz. It turns out a someone I used to be friends with one of he’s relatives worked on the fitz for a short time I believe. I’m still getting more info from him but he’s relative thankfully didn’t go down with the ship he got off a year or two before the sinking. One thing though that I was told was about the twisting of the ship,during the storms the fitz sounded like she was slowly being ripped apart each time she would flex during ruff seas. He’s relative got worried about the flexing and left the fitz due to the constant pressure of worrying about the ship and if she would split or sink. I’m still getting more information from him but I will definitely let you know what he says. He hasn’t given me permission to say anyone’s name’s yet,but he did say it was ok for me to mention this to you. Also I think the three of you should all get together throw around some good memories and theory’s about the fitz. Maybe take another spin in Bruce’s old car if you can and maybe at the end all raise a beer and do a moment of silence or something.
Many thanks. Yeah...once the Fitz draws you in, there's no turning back...the story is just too compelling. And I'd be glad to get a follow-up on your friend as it relates to the Fitz. Thanks for your interest in what I'm doing...so appreciated. HMM
Wow history mystery man you are doing great finding people who sailed in that fleet just wish they were still around they had such nice looking ships compared to today all rusty and beat up they kept their fleet looking good glad your finding more people who have stepped onto the Fitzgerald and touched the wonderful great ship just be so great to time travel back in time when the Fitzgerald and other ships that was part of the Fitzgerald's fleet keep up the great work my friend
@HistoryMysteryMan anytime you're hard work and research pays off when you put your heart and mind into something thing's pay off and somedays its negative but the key is never giving up and you will have success I'm sure those men are with you in spirit proud and happy that you bring their memories and story alive
Thank you, Mr. Spence, for sharing your friendship with Bruce with us. He had already seemed like a terrific guy, and your personal stories just confirm that. Thank you so much. Was that your wife in the background chiming in with the Steely Dan mention? They were a fav of mine too. Still are! Awesome chat. Thanks HMM. This was a real treat!! ⚓️❤️
Farrell was great! Got me a new friend now. And yes...that was his wife in the background; she was quite wonderful too. Thanks again, my friend...always appreciated. HMM
you know we all like to cut corners once in a while and have the attitude it will never happen to us, plus the fitz left the loading dock in beatuful weather so it would have been natural for any of us to not clamp them all down thinking were ok, because pictures of the fitz at the bottom showed some were not clamped down but it was a number of things that sank the fitz not just clamps, good work friend really enjoy your fitz videos
It was certainly a combination of events and things that contributed to the Fitz going down. It's also possible that the clamps came unfastened on the way down too. Thanks for your support! HMM
Interesting character. I got a sense of their lives and a bit of the working conditions. Wish you would have talked about his job on the Armco, precise tasks and a typical day. Like to get a sense on what a 24 day would be like. Some funny comments there. I remember Boonesfarm wine being about $1.87 a bottle in da Soo in the early 1980s. Their life was probably similar to college life....minus the class work. I almost went into the maritime academy in Traverse City to work on the boats but opted for College. Thanks again. Nice stories. ....oh he was talking about the weird coincidence with Lincoln and Kennedy----(after note.. .that was from Ron, your other video) well, there's a weird one with the Fitzgeralds namesake too! Edmund the man, his grandfather was a caption on the Great Lakes too, he died going down in a ship ALSO named E. FITZGERALD! It went down on Huron in the 1912ish or around period. So, two Fitzgerald ships went down on the Great Lakes! Weird!
Yeah...I totally missed his Boonsfarm comment while we were talking; I wished I had expanded on that one. That's a fascinating story about Fitzgerald's granddad...worth telling for sure. Thanks for watching...HMM
great video i enjoyed it....can you tell us about the mayflower ship for thanks giving...i read it wasnt the best choice for the journey and everyone had a bad time
@@MikeHunt-fo3ow The ship actually almost sunk several times before arriving in the Americas and the ship that was supposed to be sailing with her turned around before the halfway point. It was a relatively small boat that was badly maintained (sound familiar?) But it was what the pertinence could afford. Actually one of the boys in the boat almost blew up the mayflower after firing his dad’s musket into a barrel of gun powder! Thankfully the powder was wet and nothing happened but just one of the many things that happened on the crossing. The main beam broke during a storm almost completely destroying the boat, but a member was a builder and had a powerful jack that kept everything together for the entire voyage until it could be fixed upon coming to America.
@@robertschultz6922 very cool....i think people died on the way over too...and i know the first year did a number.......idk why they didnt sail south more so winter temps wouldnt be so severe..
@ they were supposed to, but storms blew them off course and the navigation back then wasn’t great. If I remember correctly they were actually supposed to go to the New York area or the Virginia area. It was a mistake that they ended up in the mass area, and rather than going back out with a ship that was damaged they just stayed there
Who knows, it maybe is him. If it is, then it's awesome that we've got another picture of him. It's always cool to see new pictures of the Fitz's crew.
You think 37 is to old to become a deckhand. I think I would love this job. And great edmund fitzgerald videos man I love seeing your content. I wonder if we will ever really know what happened. I wish drain the oceans would do an episode on her.
I really wish that if anyone is still alive who did work on her, that either you could find them, or they could find you. Someone who sailed on her for a whole season or more.
That's not the Fitzgerald, that was the stack of the Reserve. Different deckhouse, stack and horn arrangement but they both had the iconic Leslie 300-425 steam horns.
If what he is saying is true (about the clamps being so worn out that jumping on the covers would sometimes result the the clamps falling off) that could possibly explain why there are hatched clamps with no damage. Having said that, if worn out clamps would have been overlooked during inspection prior to November 10, 1975, I’d be willing to bet it wouldn’t have been allowed after!
No, but that's a good idea. I've never done anything live...don't even know how to do it...but I should probably summon the courage and go...thanks. HMM
Just curious if Farrell would know what kind of beer Bruce or the other crewmates of the Fitz? When he said they would drop it in the Lake of Superior to get cold I wonder what kind of beer it was... Hamm's, Schitz, Old Milwaukee?
I wonder what your Mrs. thinks about you wanting to work on a ship. You should visit the Great Lakes sometime...thanks for checking in from Australia! HMM
@History Mystery Man I do; I sent you an e-mail about a year or so ago detailing my personal experience and knowledge of him on The Fitz… He WAS the 30th crew member that season in ‘75, getting-off the ship in, I believe, Detroit, shortly before the sinking, as he told me he knew it was only a matter of time before she went down…
@@jeffkaufman9875 Yeah...I knew you had mentioned this to me before but I couldn't place it...when or where. I'll see if I can find the email...thanks.
@History Mystery Man Don, I appreciate that beyond words; like yourself, this Fitzgerald stuff still captivates me all these years later, and this story- Butch’s story, just won’t let me be for want of its telling…
To HISTORY MYSTERY MAN: ....I love all of your videos, and I especially love your coverage of Bruce Hudson's 1974 Dodge Challenger, and all your videos on the Edmund Fitzgerald, however, you must find Bruce Hudson's daughter, and do a video on meeting her, and her 4 children (which are Bruce Hudson''s grandchildren) If you are successful in doing something like that,then for sure that video would break the internet! CHEERS TO YOU!
Thanks kindly. I've actually already reached out to her, but no luck on getting her to sit down with me...it's a tender subject. I'll keep trying though...HMM
Thank you for keeping memories of the crew alive. It's important to remember and I love learning about their lives.
You're welcome; thanks for your support! HMM
When I see the alert for new content on your channel I know good things await!This was interesting Don and your guest is a very gregarious guy ,as are most sailors.Keep em coming!
Thanks Johnny! Always glad to hear from you...HMM
Thank you, Don and Ferrell for this interview.
Bruce Hudson was a handsome man and was clearly a fun friend to spend time with.
My cousin owned a '74 Challenger and, man...that thing flew!
Gotta love the classic muscle cars from the 70s! Thanks again, MissTerri. I swear Bruce Hudson would make a great movie. HMM
Fantastic! Another person who knew one of the crew! I have a feeling there are more folks still around to speak to about the crew.
And I'm out looking for 'em...thanks! HMM
@@ripperace I know that there are friends from high school still alive that knew Bruce. I would love to hear what they say and also any cadets that knew David Weiss. I have a theory that he was on the bridge when she sank wanting to go out to secure the hatch and vents. It makes sense that the captain said don’t let nobody on deck and since the cowboy was the only crewman that I know of who had a actual beard, would have worn a set of coveralls, I think he was the body that Shannon found on his dive. The description of what they saw fits this to a tee! I’m sure I’m wrong but it makes sense
@@robertschultz6922 you could be correct though…. Unfortunately, we’ll never know.
@ no we never will, but after watching this video I got to thinking, if Bruce had his cabin in the aft section, would that mean that it’s probably totally destroyed since the aft area was found upside down? I know his cabin was described as the one every young crew member went to off duty. He had a tv, and a really cool radio to play all his favorite music. It’s described by his mom as a fraternity type feel. I could just imagine all the deckhands meeting there and maybe one or two would sneak off to the fantail to smoke a joint and drink some beer! He was the man on board! The older crew members would hang out in the mess deck playing card games and smoking cigars and of course’s they had a little bit of beer too!!!
@@robertschultz6922 I’d have to say either destroyed, or buried in the lake floor. Seeing as how the bow was buried, what, 28 or so feet into the floor, I’d have to assume the rear is at least that deep. All the pics and videos I’ve ever seen of the stern just shows the hull, and that’s it. One can assume it’s pretty well sunk in the lake floor.
It was a true pleasure to watch this one! Thanks again for your efforts!
You got it Robert...Happy Thanksgiving ole friend...HMM
Thank you HMM.
I feel it's important to keep the memories of these men alive.
I'll keep after it. Thanks Roger...and Happy Thanksgiving. HMM
Great interview! It was nice for him to bring us in.
It was a great experience for me...thanks Michael. HMM
I’m 23, with a Dodge Challenger. I’d definitely do this job still knowing the risks. I feel like me and Bruce would be great buds if I were alive back then. 🙏
I was 8 yrs, old, when the his ship went Down 😢,& Remember them guys, a few came my Elementary school to talk about the Big ships & workings,, Bruce was probably one of them guys, can't Remember who tho, if he was one or not that showed up
Your's isn't a quarter of what his was. His was a nasty car lol
@@tyler1671 ?
@OmenOfficial he car was a high performance car.... The challenger that they make today is not even a inkling of what that car was
@ I have a SRT hellcat. Mine is way faster. But both are awesome cars. Why complain?
Just came across this. Remember song from childhood and hear it now at least once a week at bankshots in Bakersfield ca. Thank you for keeping these memories alive.
You're welcome! Thanks for your support from Bakersfield. "Winding your way down on Baker Street...Light in your head and dead on your feet...another crazy day..."
Glad to have watched this. Amazing stories 👍
So many thanks! HMM
This story is absolutely fascinating, learning about the people is what’s important.
Thanks Jim...always appreciated, HMM
👍👍👍grear stories feller's... thank you HMM for bringing this to us..see ya next time 👍👍🍻👊
You rock Elroy...thanks again! HMM
This is a great thing you all are doing , sharing stories keeps the memories alive!
Thanks...so appreciated. HMM
Another great video HHM. Appreciate the heartfelt memories of a vibrant, energetic young man so full of life. These crew members will never be forgotten as long we are talking about them and remembering the lives lived from the friends, wives, sons and daughters. Love your channel.
Thanks James; I really appreciate you taking the time to say so. Stop by anytime! HMM
Simply put, this was great. We can all remember those carefree days drinking beers, listening to tunes and shooting the yit. Life was simpler and then tragedy strikes. So tough...
Yes! I believe life was simpler in the 70s...and far less dangerous. My kids always ask me about the 70s...so cool. Thanks again, Scott. HMM
I am setting here in West Virginia right now watching this.
Great to have you here West Virginia! Honored...HMM
@@HistoryMysteryMan
I just love to watch your videos for years. You do an amazing job.
@@Houndini Thanks again!
I am from WV too. Is this guest from WV
HMM, as always a Heartfelt Thank You and Hand Salute! Over the years I've read most of the books about the Fitzgerald but the interviews and history you do is tops. Very amazing and I always come away with a lot that I didn't know and was glad to learn more. Thank You Once again and Be Safe!
Thanks again my friend. Your feedback and contributions here are always appreciated. You be safe too! HMM
😊 Great video sir!! Thank you and Mr. Farrell as well. I'm sure there were many tears when friends of Bruce and all the crew perished 😢. This should be a movie made to benefit the Fitz and her crews legacy and mariners in need.😊
Thanks again Susan...I'd be first in line to see that movie! HMM
@@susanbelida6981 I’d be second in line for a ticket
What a truly wonderful video Don. Your guest did a great job. As you know, this past Summer I ventured up to Whitefish Bay and the Shipwreck Museum. While walking on the beach, I came across a little memorial of several Fitz crew members. One of them was Bruce Hudson. There was a picture of him. It was quite touching to say the least.
Again, really enjoyed watching this one.
Thanks Chuck. I remember you telling me about your trip up north...so cool. Happy Thanksgiving my friend...HMM
Great video as always Don! It was fun listening Farrell talking about Bruce who was no doubt an awesome friend. I can't wait to see the next video about him
Thanks again bluerazor7049. I appreciate you. HMM
Terrific video Don. Keeping the story of the Fitz alive.
Doing my best...thanks! HMM
Wow! What a nice surprise!
Thanks for watching! HMM
Great story I love when you do these
Thanks...so appreciated. HMM
What a wonderful tribute and insight to Bruce Hudson. Don, with each new video I really enjoy and appreciate your willingness to dig just a little deeper for the stories of these men. It is really a testament to your investigative abilities that we all get to respectfully know each of them a little more. As you said, those who lived and worked with these men are becoming scarce with each passing season. Keep up the great work Sir!
Super nice feedback...so appreciated. Finding these people is the real challenge...but I'll keep looking...thanks! HMM
What a wonderful video and so much information! Thanks @History Mystery Man for finding this gentleman and interviewing him and sharing with us! Waiting for part 2!!
You're welcome; thanks again tmayer0009. HMM
Thank you for sharing!
And thanks for watching! HMM
A very awesome video! I love getting to know the crew. To me a movie should be made about them and the events
Man I'd be first in line to by a ticket to that movie...thanks again, Robert. HMM
Very nice. Video very. Cool that. This. Guy personally knew Bruce Hudson i bet. This gave. You. Goosebumps
I really enjoyed the experience for sure. Thanks again, Matthew...HMM
Another home run and wonderfully magnificent interview Don. God bless Mr. Farrell for sharing his stories and documenting yet another personal chapter in keeping the memory of Bruce, the crew and the Big Fitz alive. Nice to see you edit in the photo of the Hudson’s Burns Rd. house across the street from mine, as well as Bruce’s infamous Charger. It was a great place to grow up.
I remain hopeful and look forward to a time when we can connect next time I’m in Toledo to visit the Great Lakes Museum again.
Job superbly well done once again sir.
Have a blessed holiday season.
Thanks Jeff...nice to hear from you again. I remember our conversations about Bruce...being that you grew up in the same hood. What is your most vivid memory of Bruce? Any specifics? Do you recall what he sounded like? Thanks again...HMM
I have enjoyed every episode, this was fantastic
Thanks Duane...so appreciated. HMM
God bless this man. He was sailing same time as Fitz and sailed on the ships talked about that no longer exist! What a living legacy.
It was a great experience; thanks for joining in on it. HMM
@HistoryMysteryMan you're welcome
Awesome episode! I bet he could go one for hours!
Part 2 coming...thanks again, Rob. HMM
Good interview. Gotta treasure them
Thanks again, Gene...HMM
Thank your for taking the time to make these videos
You're welcome; thanks for taking the time to watch. HMM
As again magnificent. Thank you much Don.
You're welcome Ryan; thanks for your support...HMM
Absolutely love this ! Thank you so much guys !!!
You're welcome Eric...thanks for your support! HMM
Bloody awesome episode
Enjoy all your videos
I'm a engineer on one of our ships here in new Zealand
Very good video well done..
LOGAN
Thanks Logan...so appreciated. Stop by anytime! HMM
don I have to say getting to talk with him priceless keep in touch with him he s a true gem a great human being God bless him amen
Sure thing Mark...I've got a new friend now! Thanks...HMM
Between him and Darrell you in pretty good hands ol buddy keep up the great work love it
This is another great and accurate interview . These guys are my age and you know they had family and friends . You still feel sorry for the relatives and friends no matter what.
Absolutely Larry...and thanks for taking the time to watch. HMM
Thanks for sharing 😊
You're welcome; thanks for watching Mark. HMM
Great video, love hearing about Bruce
Thanks Rodney...always appreciated. HMM
That was a Great story!
Thanks again Robert. HMM
This video was AWESOME! thank you again hmm!!
You're always welcome...thanks again! HMM
What a fascinating man!
I'll buy that...thanks! HMM
Thanks Don this was great!
Really think this channel is unique and gives us information and stories surrounding the Fitz that we never would have had.
Doing my best to find the stories! Thanks again! HMM
Great video .u need to have some more interviews with this guy ...so interesting
I'm all for that...thanks! HMM
@@HistoryMysteryMan what is the schedule looking like for the next few weeks of video drops??? I always look for them to come out!
@@robertschultz6922 Should have one or two more coming out with Bruce Hudson's friend Farrell Spence...then at least two more behind that with Capt. Darrell...
Such a great video! It’s so interesting to hear these stories and it helps to have a better understanding of how these individual crewmen were. Keep up the great work, Don!!
Thanks again, Daniel! HMM
Great video...thanks.
You're welcome; thanks for watching! HMM
A whole new first hand account! Some valuable information regarding the hatches!!!
Thanks again Merlyn...HMM
My grandpa served aboard the Fitzgerald, I never got to meet him. He died before I was born
That's awesome...a story you can always carry forward. HMM
For more information he got off in 1974, there's a photo of my dad Infront of the Fitz in the locks@@HistoryMysteryMan
Excellent, as always! Ty.❤
Thats was a kicking butt video
Thanks again, Gary...so appreciated. HMM
EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love these videos don
Love the hoodie!! My mother's family is from Brigdport West Virginia.
Thanks Brandon...always appreciated! HMM
Nice to from someone with a personal history with one of the crew. It helps bring them to life in your mind.
That's a good way to put it...because that's what it does for me...thanks again. HMM
Another awesome video
Thanks again, Bob...HMM
Great interviewee find, lol
These sailors who worked on the great lakes prior to the mid 1990s are true men. The job got done, any complaints that may have arose on a ship between crew members were resolved on the vesell, and the end result was disputed, resolved, settled, and a handshake was respected and honored more than any official write up on a piece of paper ever would have resolved or settled. No one ever dareD to say the phrase..." IM GONNA TAKE YOU TO COURT MAN" and afterward expect a pat on the back. That type of threat with legal consequenses would alienate one from the rest of the crew forever
So true. In my time on the Great Lakes in the 70s and 80s, it never got back to the office; it was always settled on the stern...and it wasn't always pretty. Thanks for your support...HMM
Thanks Don. You offer the meat and potatoes of life in all that you bring us.
Man I like that...thanks!
I was wondering what the next video you posted would be about and this interview with Farrell Spence didn't disappoint. I know you have provided some insight into Bruce Hudson's life in previous videos, but it was cool to hear from somebody that knew Bruce (and even lived with him). Bruce was born less than a year before my Mom, so I can identify with that generation and the lifestyle at that time. It seems like a lot of people of that generation, especially in their youth worked hard and partied hard, Bruce was no different.
Farrell's info on the Fitz, especially how clean it was interesting and the fact that one of the boats he worked on was the ARMCO is cool. Capt. Darrell mentions that boat multiple times in your videos and getting to see her in person (albeit in lay-up) was cool. Hoping she returns to service instead of heading to my home town of Port Colborne to be scrapped.
Anyways thanks for keeping Bruce's memory alive and the memory of the Fitz alive. Looking forward to part 2!
The 70s was a fascinating decade...my absolute favorite. My kids seemed fascinated with it too...always asking me questions about it. The Armco is now the American Valor and is currently laid up in Toledo. I'm thinking her life may be over; it's been sitting here for 16 years...rusting away. Anyway...you're welcome on Bruce Hudson; thanks again, Gregg for all your support...HMM
No doubt the 70's was an interesting time from what I've heard. Although I was just a toddler, I grew up in the 80's & 90's. And yeah I seen the ARMCO/ American Valor/ Valo there right by/ almost under the bridge and sadly you could very well be right about her fate. And no problem, I'm really enjoy you're new season of Fitz/ Great Lakes content.
@@greggrauscher34 The 70s was definitely the best decade of my life...at least so far, much like the 50s were for my parents...thanks.
Love these Edmund Fitzgerald videos and it’s so cool you got to meet and interview someone who knew Bruce but also stepped foot on the mighty fitz. To me I imagine stepping on the fitz must have felt like a bolt of lightning going through me. Ever since I started watching your videos I’ve been obsessed with learning as much about the fitz.
It turns out a someone I used to be friends with one of he’s relatives worked on the fitz for a short time I believe. I’m still getting more info from him but he’s relative thankfully didn’t go down with the ship he got off a year or two before the sinking. One thing though that I was told was about the twisting of the ship,during the storms the fitz sounded like she was slowly being ripped apart each time she would flex during ruff seas. He’s relative got worried about the flexing and left the fitz due to the constant pressure of worrying about the ship and if she would split or sink.
I’m still getting more information from him but I will definitely let you know what he says. He hasn’t given me permission to say anyone’s name’s yet,but he did say it was ok for me to mention this to you.
Also I think the three of you should all get together throw around some good memories and theory’s about the fitz. Maybe take another spin in Bruce’s old car if you can and maybe at the end all raise a beer and do a moment of silence or something.
Many thanks. Yeah...once the Fitz draws you in, there's no turning back...the story is just too compelling. And I'd be glad to get a follow-up on your friend as it relates to the Fitz. Thanks for your interest in what I'm doing...so appreciated. HMM
@ thanks I’ll keep you posted on what he says
That's Captain Bert Lambert 3:22 😊
Wow history mystery man you are doing great finding people who sailed in that fleet just wish they were still around they had such nice looking ships compared to today all rusty and beat up they kept their fleet looking good glad your finding more people who have stepped onto the Fitzgerald and touched the wonderful great ship just be so great to time travel back in time when the Fitzgerald and other ships that was part of the Fitzgerald's fleet keep up the great work my friend
Thanks AJ; it's nice to be recognized for my work. So appreciated. HMM
@HistoryMysteryMan anytime you're hard work and research pays off when you put your heart and mind into something thing's pay off and somedays its negative but the key is never giving up and you will have success I'm sure those men are with you in spirit proud and happy that you bring their memories and story alive
Thank you, Mr. Spence, for sharing your friendship with Bruce with us. He had already seemed like a terrific guy, and your personal stories just confirm that. Thank you so much. Was that your wife in the background chiming in with the Steely Dan mention? They were a fav of mine too. Still are! Awesome chat. Thanks HMM. This was a real treat!! ⚓️❤️
Farrell was great! Got me a new friend now. And yes...that was his wife in the background; she was quite wonderful too. Thanks again, my friend...always appreciated. HMM
you know we all like to cut corners once in a while and have the attitude it will never happen to us, plus the fitz left the loading dock in beatuful weather so it would have been natural for any of us to not clamp them all down thinking were ok, because pictures of the fitz at the bottom showed some were not clamped down but it was a number of things that sank the fitz not just clamps, good work friend really enjoy your fitz videos
👍..I would guess the collision with the bottom unclamped the hatch's?
It was certainly a combination of events and things that contributed to the Fitz going down. It's also possible that the clamps came unfastened on the way down too. Thanks for your support! HMM
Interesting character. I got a sense of their lives and a bit of the working conditions. Wish you would have talked about his job on the Armco, precise tasks and a typical day. Like to get a sense on what a 24 day would be like.
Some funny comments there. I remember Boonesfarm wine being about $1.87 a bottle in da Soo in the early 1980s.
Their life was probably similar to college life....minus the class work. I almost went into the maritime academy in Traverse City to work on the boats but opted for College. Thanks again. Nice stories.
....oh he was talking about the weird coincidence with Lincoln and Kennedy----(after note..
.that was from Ron, your other video) well, there's a weird one with the Fitzgeralds namesake too! Edmund the man, his grandfather was a caption on the Great Lakes too, he died going down in a ship ALSO named E. FITZGERALD! It went down on Huron in the 1912ish or around period. So, two Fitzgerald ships went down on the Great Lakes! Weird!
Yeah...I totally missed his Boonsfarm comment while we were talking; I wished I had expanded on that one. That's a fascinating story about Fitzgerald's granddad...worth telling for sure. Thanks for watching...HMM
My daughter has a challenger too
Awesome! HMM
great video i enjoyed it....can you tell us about the mayflower ship for thanks giving...i read it wasnt the best choice for the journey and everyone had a bad time
@@MikeHunt-fo3ow The ship actually almost sunk several times before arriving in the Americas and the ship that was supposed to be sailing with her turned around before the halfway point. It was a relatively small boat that was badly maintained (sound familiar?) But it was what the pertinence could afford. Actually one of the boys in the boat almost blew up the mayflower after firing his dad’s musket into a barrel of gun powder! Thankfully the powder was wet and nothing happened but just one of the many things that happened on the crossing. The main beam broke during a storm almost completely destroying the boat, but a member was a builder and had a powerful jack that kept everything together for the entire voyage until it could be fixed upon coming to America.
@@robertschultz6922 very cool....i think people died on the way over too...and i know the first year did a number.......idk why they didnt sail south more so winter temps wouldnt be so severe..
@ they were supposed to, but storms blew them off course and the navigation back then wasn’t great. If I remember correctly they were actually supposed to go to the New York area or the Virginia area. It was a mistake that they ended up in the mass area, and rather than going back out with a ship that was damaged they just stayed there
Very cool episode.
Keep them coming please.
Thanks Rob...Part 2 on the way...then more with Captain Darrell! HMM
On 6:26, could that be David Weiss? It looks like him, Dave did have a beard and shades.
Good question. I was wondering myself...I can see the resemblance. Thanks...HMM
Who knows, it maybe is him. If it is, then it's awesome that we've got another picture of him. It's always cool to see new pictures of the Fitz's crew.
You think 37 is to old to become a deckhand. I think I would love this job. And great edmund fitzgerald videos man I love seeing your content. I wonder if we will ever really know what happened. I wish drain the oceans would do an episode on her.
Not at all. In my world, 37 is just a pup. If you're healthy, strong and determined, go for it. Thanks...HMM
I really wish that if anyone is still alive who did work on her, that either you could find them, or they could find you. Someone who sailed on her for a whole season or more.
I'm lookin...I'll keep trying...thanks. HMM
At the 2:29 mark is there by chance sound of the horns?
That's not the Fitzgerald, that was the stack of the Reserve. Different deckhouse, stack and horn arrangement but they both had the iconic Leslie 300-425 steam horns.
Oh sure I didn't catch that
If what he is saying is true (about the clamps being so worn out that jumping on the covers would sometimes result the the clamps falling off) that could possibly explain why there are hatched clamps with no damage.
Having said that, if worn out clamps would have been overlooked during inspection prior to November 10, 1975, I’d be willing to bet it wouldn’t have been allowed after!
Good point on the undamaged hatch clamps; thanks for watching. HMM
Have you ever done a live version with Captain darrel
No, but that's a good idea. I've never done anything live...don't even know how to do it...but I should probably summon the courage and go...thanks. HMM
Just curious if Farrell would know what kind of beer Bruce or the other crewmates of the Fitz? When he said they would drop it in the Lake of Superior to get cold I wonder what kind of beer it was... Hamm's, Schitz, Old Milwaukee?
Farrell said Little Kings!
@HistoryMysteryMan awesome! I guess I couldn't understand when he said it but thats cool! Thank you!
Shut the front door Don!!! wasnt Captain Darrells' father the chief engineer on the ARMCO in 74-75? Did he know him?
Farrell said he recognizes Darrell's dad's name but couldn't quite place him. Thanks again Mike...HMM
Try 35 + on a carrier through a hurricane 🌀.rough but I was in the US navy. I was cool. Had fun while 90 % of the crew were sick.
Thanks for your service...HMM
I live in Australia and I said to my Mrs the other day I wanna work on a ship, a freighter, only issue is in Australia there’s pretty much nothing
I wonder what your Mrs. thinks about you wanting to work on a ship. You should visit the Great Lakes sometime...thanks for checking in from Australia! HMM
is this guy from west virginia?
No...he's from the Toledo, Ohio area...thanks.
History Mystery Man: Wish you’d follow-up regarding 30th crewman Robert “Butch” Scheutzow, late of Cleveland…
I am not familiar with this "30th crewman". Do you have any info on him?
@History Mystery Man I do; I sent you an e-mail about a year or so ago detailing my personal experience and knowledge of him on The Fitz… He WAS the 30th crew member that season in ‘75, getting-off the ship in, I believe, Detroit, shortly before the sinking, as he told me he knew it was only a matter of time before she went down…
@@jeffkaufman9875 Yeah...I knew you had mentioned this to me before but I couldn't place it...when or where. I'll see if I can find the email...thanks.
@History Mystery Man Don, I appreciate that beyond words; like yourself, this Fitzgerald stuff still captivates me all these years later, and this story- Butch’s story, just won’t let me be for want of its telling…
Bolo out on the fellers they are lost at sea again
To HISTORY MYSTERY MAN:
....I love all of your videos, and I especially love your coverage of Bruce Hudson's 1974 Dodge Challenger, and all your videos on the Edmund Fitzgerald, however, you must find Bruce Hudson's daughter, and do a video on meeting her, and her 4 children (which are Bruce Hudson''s grandchildren)
If you are successful in doing something like that,then for sure that video would break the internet!
CHEERS TO YOU!
Thanks kindly. I've actually already reached out to her, but no luck on getting her to sit down with me...it's a tender subject. I'll keep trying though...HMM
awesome interview
Thanks! HMM
He knows you own Bruce's car Now,& the lighter?? Probably the very lighter he just mentioned,,is the same one,,wow,!
Thanks...I don't own Bruce's car; but I know the guy who does...and he took me for a ride. HMM
@@HistoryMysteryMan that's Right,very, I remember now you interviewed the guy who owns it now,,