(Tug, built 1871; lost June 25, 1899)
Identification & Vessel Details
Final Voyage & Fire (June 25, 1899)
- Date & Route: While towing the Schooner‑Barge Tracy J. Bronson north of Sheboygan, Wisconsin
- Cargo for Companion: The Bronson was en route to East Jordan, Michigan, to receive lumber
- Incident: Around 12 PM, flames broke out—likely near the pilothouse or boiler—spreading quickly
- Crew Response: The crew evacuated safely in the Tug’s Yawl; some sheltering aboard the Bronson
- Rescue Efforts:
Summary
The Tug Satisfaction, built in 1871, caught fire while towing the Tracy J. Bronson on June 25, 1899, near Sheboygan. The blaze ignited near the boiler and engulfed the vessel quickly. Salvage attempts by several vessels failed, and Satisfaction sank. Fortunately, the crew evacuated in time—no casualties were reported.
Further Research & Archival Opportunities
| Area | Why It Matters | Suggested Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Exact cause & spread of fire | To clarify mechanical or boiler failure behind ignition | Local newspapers (Sheboygan Press, June 1899); marine incident reports |
| Crew documentary details | Adds personal context and names for the evacuation | Enrollment logs; Tug crew records |
| Logbooks of Georgia, Olympia, Sheboygan | May provide survivor testimony and rescue actions | Company archives, marine registries |
| Pre-existing vessel damage | Noting prior sinking in White River may show structural weaknesses | Chicago River marine records |
| Insurance and salvage files | Can illuminate claimed losses and liability | Marine insurance ledgers |
- Retrieve June 1899 newspaper coverage surrounding the fire and sinking?
- Access company or port logs from the involved vessels?
- Pull insurance or marine board records relating to the loss?