Identification & Site Information

• Name: Calatco #2 (formerly U.S. Navy Tug No. 56, later renamed LEADER)

• Type: Steel Propeller Tug

• Year Built: 1918

• Builder: Greenport, Long Island, New York

• Dimensions:

• Length: 82 feet (25 m)

• Beam: 21 feet (6.4 m)

• Depth: 10 feet (3 m)

• Tonnage:

• Gross: 101 tons

• Net: 69 tons

• Propulsion: Oil motor propulsion

• Final Location: Oswego Harbor, Lake Ontario

• Date of Wreck: November 13, 1946

Vessel Type Description

The Calatco #2 was a steel-hulled propeller Tug designed for durability and reliability in towing operations. Originally built as U.S. Navy Tug No. 56, it served in naval operations before transitioning to civilian use. After being renamed LEADER and subsequently Calatco #2, the Tug operated under the ownership of the Canal and Lake Towing Co. of New York.

History

Construction and Early Service

The Calatco #2 was launched in 1918 at the height of World War I, constructed for the U.S. Navy as Tug No. 56. Its robust steel Hull and oil motor propulsion system made it ideal for demanding naval and commercial towing duties. After its naval service, the Tug transitioned to civilian use, adopting the name LEADER and later Calatco #2 under private ownership.

Final Incident

On November 13, 1946, the Calatco #2 was towing a gasoline Barge in Oswego Harbor on Lake Ontario when a fire broke out near the engine. The diesel fuel-fed flames quickly engulfed the vessel, making firefighting efforts nearly impossible. Despite the valiant efforts of firefighters and Coast Guardsmen, the fire could not be contained.

To prevent further hazard, the Tug was pulled out against the Breakwater, where it burned out completely. The vessel was declared a constructive Total Loss, valued at over $100,000—a significant sum at the time. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. The Tug was under the command of Captain J. E. Paqueit, and ownership belonged to the Canal and Lake Towing Co. of New York.

Final Disposition

The Calatco #2 was rendered unusable due to the severity of the fire. The remains of the vessel may lie in or near Oswego Harbor, but no detailed records of salvage or preservation efforts are available.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The exact condition of the Calatco #2 remains is unknown. If remnants exist, they are likely heavily deteriorated due to the fire and subsequent exposure to the elements. The wreck site in Oswego Harbor is not identified as a prominent dive location, and the accessibility for exploration or study is unclear.

Legacy

The loss of the Calatco #2 highlights the inherent dangers of towing volatile cargo, such as gasoline, and underscores the risks faced by Tugboat crews in their daily operations. Its service life—from naval operations to commercial towing—reflects the versatility and utility of such vessels during the mid-20th century.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes

• David Swayze Shipwreck File

• Great Lakes Ships Database

Conclusion

The Calatco #2 stands as a historical marker of maritime resilience and risk, serving both military and civilian needs before its untimely loss in 1946. Its story contributes to the broader narrative of Great Lakes maritime history, showcasing the pivotal role of tugs in the region’s commerce and industry.

Keywords

Calatco #2, Oswego Harbor, Lake Ontario, Great Lakes Tugboat, Canal and Lake Towing Co., Tugboat fire, U.S. Navy Tug No. 56, maritime history, 20th-century shipwreck, Tugboat disasters.