The steambarge Mary Mills was launched on July 3, 1872 at Vicksburg, Michigan. The vessel was primarily used in the lumber and coal trade. The namesake of this barge was Mrs. Mary Mills from Algonac, Michigan.
"The old and well known barge Mary Mills went up in fire and smoke Wednesday morning, together with the warehouse at Circle Ridge. The fire is said to have originated from an exploded lamp in the engine room, and broke out about two o'clock. The loss on the Mills is covered by fire insurance. The warehouse contained a quantity of pressed hay which was to have been loaded onto the Mills the next day. The barge was of small value through age and unseaworthiness." Door County Democrate December 15, 1900.

The Mills was valued at $7,000 and was insured for $4,500.
"Steam Barge - Mary Mills - burned and went down in the Bay near Circle Ridge where only a part of the prow is now visible." from the Boneyard of the Great Lakes.

In June of 1902 the boiler and the steam engine had been removed by James Oakley