Day #62 - Grafton, IL
October 1st, 2008Left our beautiful anchorage with Foreign Exchange at 7:00. Pulled up our anchor and not a bit of debris on it, which we are not used to. Had a long haul planned as we were determined to make it as far as the Mississippi River today. That destination, Grafton, IL, is about 80 miles and a couple of lift bridges and locks away. It is never known how long you may or may not have to wait for bridges, etc. The locks are wicket locks and are down under water because of the water depth so you just cruise right over the top of them. We are seeing less and less debris the further we go down the river. That is a relief as you really have had to keep an eagle eye while cruising as logs, etc. were everywhere. The terrain seems to be changing as there are more hills and more trees and fewer factories. The river is wider and cleaner as we get away from the more industrial areas. Saw another Bald Eagle today high up in a tree.
We were making really good time when we approached the Hardin Highway lift bridge. Radioed ahead and he said because of the water height there was under 17 feet of clearance and we require just over 18 feet. We asked how long until he would open and he announced that he didn’t know as there were 35 workmen working on the bridge and he wouldn’t open until a barge game through, could be hours he said. Decided to put down the anchor and the first attempt didn’t hold. The second attempt did hold although we were in heavy current. We were attempting to put down the radar arch (not an easy task) when he radioed and said since there were not three pleasure boats waiting he would lift the bridge. He did so up to 40 feet and we cruised right under after only about a half hour wait.
It has been decided that we are going to go past our destination four miles up the Mississippi River to fill with fuel as their diesel is $3.89 a gallon. That is the least we have paid all year. Worth the four extra miles. Then back to Grafton, our final destination for the day.
4 Responses to “Day #62 - Grafton, IL”
By Barney on Oct 2, 2008
Well..Happy B-Day Caption!! I think that you should just sit back today
and let Mary take over. I’m jealous that you’re chasing the warmer weather,
it was 38° her this morning. Have a great B-day!!-Barney
By Jerry Lampman on Oct 2, 2008
Thank you for keeping those of us who are watching your progress informed. I check your progress each day and enjoy your comments.
Starting to look like fall here in South Haven, Michigan, gray skies, rain.
NO HURRIES,NO WORRIES.
Jerry L
By Kathy & Dale Albin on Oct 3, 2008
We are following your loop travels. We met you in South Haven, Mi where we spend the summer on our 1936 tug. Keep us all informed and someday we hope to “loop”. But for now we are back home in central Illinois harvesting the corn and soybeans. Here’s hoping that the weather and water cooperate with your travels.
Kathy & Dale Albin
Albin & Co
By Ted Evans on Oct 8, 2008
Geez sorry I missed your birthday, also now known as the second anniversary of Ted trying to cut off his finger!! I checked w/ the guys in the locker room and they confirmed that your absence on or near your birthday does not preclude you from having to supply a case of beer. Please advise of your plan!!
Sail On