Identification & Site Information

Description

The TOM DOWLING was a wooden steam-powered Tugboat constructed in 1873 by Stevens & Presley in Cleveland, Ohio. Designed for towing and assisting larger vessels, she measured 67 feet in length with a beam of 13 feet and a depth of 5 feet. With a Gross Tonnage of 37 tons, the Tug played a vital role in the operations of the Great Lakes’ maritime industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

History

Throughout her service life, the TOM DOWLING was instrumental in various towing operations across the Great Lakes. In the year leading up to her demise, she experienced a series of unfortunate incidents, including two major accidents that significantly impacted her operational capabilities. Despite these challenges, she continued to serve under the ownership of Albert Coal.

On August 17, 1908, while docked at Ashland, Wisconsin, the TOM DOWLING caught fire. The blaze quickly intensified, engulfing the vessel. Three local firemen boarded the Tug in an attempt to extinguish the flames. During their efforts, the vessel suddenly capsized and sank, nearly drowning the firemen who were subsequently rescued. This incident marked the third major accident for the TOM DOWLING within a year. There are indications that the vessel may have been recovered after the incident, but detailed records of her fate post-recovery are scarce.

Final Disposition

The TOM DOWLING met her end due to a catastrophic fire on August 17, 1908, at Ashland, Wisconsin, on Lake Superior. The fire led to her capsizing and sinking. While there is some evidence suggesting she may have been salvaged, the subsequent history of the vessel remains unclear.

Located By & Date Found

There are no records indicating that the wreck of the TOM DOWLING has been located or surveyed to date.

NOTMARs & Advisories

No navigational warnings or advisories related to the TOM DOWLING wreck site are currently noted.

Resources & Links

The TOM DOWLING’s service history reflects the challenges faced by steam tugs operating in the Great Lakes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Despite multiple accidents, the vessel remained a steadfast component of maritime operations until her unfortunate demise in 1908.

Keywords: TOM DOWLING, steam Tug, Great Lakes shipwreck, Lake Superior, maritime history

Categories: Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime History, Steam Tugs

Glossary Terms:

  • Propeller Steam Tug: A small, powerful vessel equipped with a steam engine and propeller, designed primarily for towing and maneuvering larger ships.
  • Gross Tonnage: A measure of the overall internal volume of a vessel.
  • Net Tonnage: The volume of cargo a vessel can carry; calculated by subtracting non-revenue-earning spaces from the Gross Tonnage.
  • Capsize: The overturning of a vessel in water.