The American Fortitude in layup at the coal/ore docks in Toledo, Ohio. The condition of the U.S. steel industry has resulted in a large number of Great Lakes bulkers being laid up during the 2009 navigation season. Toledo, Ohio on the Maumee River, August 22, 2009. Built in 1953 by American Shipbuilding Co. of Lorain, Ohio, she was converted to a self unloader in 1981. Earnest T. Weir (2), 1953-1978; Courtney Burton, 1978-2006. Purchased by American Steamship Co. in 2006.