The wooden steamer Planet was originally built as a side wheeler in 1855 by James Bushnell at Newport, Michigan. In 1861 the Planet received a new vertical beam engine from Detroit Locomotive Works, 62" X 120". In June of 1866 her engine broke down on Lake Michigan. She was towed to Manitowoc where her engine and cabins were removed and installed into the steamer Northwest (registry # 18107) and the Planet became a lumber barge.

Document of Enrollment: Surrendered: 6/30/1874: "Vessel total wreck".
"The barge Planet, owned by the Pestigo Lumber Co., became water-logged off the pier at Two Rivers, about two o'clock yesterday morning, and shortly after broke up. The craft was laden with 700,000 feet of lumber. The crew it is thought saved themselves; at least, none were reported as lost." Milwaukee Sentinel 11/08/1872

"The barge Planet, wrecked 11/1872 at Manitowoc was actually recovered and completely rebuilt as a a barge by Hill, Marine City and registered as the new barge Northwest. The Planet was a total loss, but her remains were removed." From: Brendon Baillod 5/21/13