Identification & Site Information:

• Name(s): Hopkins, later renamed Minnetonka
• Registry: Not Applicable
• Official Number: Not Applicable
• Vessel Type: Streetcar Ferry Boat
• Builder: Twin City Rapid Transit Co.
• Place Built: Excelsior, Minnesota
• Date Built: 1906
• Hull Material: Wood
• Dimensions: Length: 70 ft (21.3 m) Width: 15 ft (4.6 m) Depth: Not documented

Vessel Type

The Hopkins was a wooden streetcar Ferry boat built to serve the Twin City Rapid Transit Company (TCRTC). These vessels were part of a fleet designed to provide transportation across Lake Minnetonka, connecting lakeside communities and enhancing the region’s mobility infrastructure.

Description

The Hopkins was launched on May 25, 1906, as one of seven streetcar Ferry boats operated by the TCRTC. These vessels were designed to Ferry passengers efficiently, integrating with the broader streetcar network that served the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.

In 1926, the streetcar Ferry service was discontinued as other transportation options became more viable. The Hopkins was sold to a private owner, renamed Minnetonka, and repurposed as an excursion boat. The vessel continued operating in this capacity until it was deliberately scuttled in 1949, marking the end of its service life.

Final Dispositions

The wreck of the Hopkins lies in 50 ft (15 m) of water north of Big Island in Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota.

• The Hull is upright and remains in excellent condition compared to other TCRTC boats.
• Significant structural elements are still visible, including the cabin window framing, bitts, and parts of benches.
• The stack is present, lodged into one of the Deck openings.
• Seasonal Visibility is best under the ice or in early spring, as high-speed recreational boat traffic during the summer months can disturb the site and pose risks to divers.

Located By & Date Found

The wreck is well-documented within the context of Lake Minnetonka’s submerged cultural resources. It is notable for being the best-preserved of the TCRTC streetcar boats and has been studied as part of efforts to preserve and interpret Minnesota’s maritime history.

NOTMARs & Advisories

The site is suitable for experienced divers due to its depth and the potential risks posed by recreational boat traffic during the summer season. Divers are encouraged to plan dives during early spring or under ice for optimal Visibility and safety.

Resources & Links

• Wrecks and Submerged Cultural Resources of Lake Minnetonka MPDF
• 3DShipwrecks – Minnetonka

3DModels – Minnetonka

Shipwreck Hopkins 2018 by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Shipwreck Hopkins Yr 2-2019 by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Keywords, Categories, Glossary

Keywords: Hopkins, Minnetonka, Lake Minnetonka Shipwrecks, TCRTC, Streetcar Ferry Boats

Categories: Great Lakes Shipwrecks, Maritime History, Passenger Vessels

Glossary: Streetcar Boat, Bitts, Stack, Scuttling, Excelsior