Identification & Site Information

• Name: America
• Former Names: None
• Official Number: 217862
• Date Built and Launched: 1917
• Builder: E. F. Anclan? (likely E.F. Anclam), Bailey’s Harbor, Wisconsin
• Vessel Type: Oil Screw Fish Tug
• Hull Material: Wood
• Measurements:
• Length: 32 ft (9.8 m)
• Beam: 9 ft (2.7 m)
• Depth: 4 ft (1.2 m)
• Gross Tonnage: 13 tons
• Net Tonnage: 9 tons
• Date Lost: May 5, 1950
• Place of Loss: 5 miles off Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
• Lake: Lake Michigan
• Type of Loss: Storm (Foundered in sudden squall)
• Loss of Life: Unknown
• Cargo at Time of Loss: Unknown

Vessel Type & Description

The America was a wooden oil screw fish Tug, built in 1917 in Bailey’s Harbor, Wisconsin, a town known for its commercial fishing industry. Fish tugs were specialized vessels designed for nearshore fishing operations on the Great Lakes, characterized by their sturdy construction and enclosed cabins to protect the crew from the harsh conditions often encountered on the lakes.

At 32 feet in length, with a beam of 9 feet, and a depth of 4 feet, the America was a small but robust vessel typical of the Great Lakes fishing fleet. Powered by an oil screw engine, the America reflected the technological shift from steam to internal combustion engines that occurred in the early 20th century, allowing for greater reliability and efficiency in fishing operations.

History

The America operated out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and was owned by N.J. Daubner at the time of her loss. Like many fish tugs of her era, she would have been involved in the commercial fishing trade, likely targeting species such as lake trout, whitefish, and perch, which were vital to the regional economy.

Fishing vessels like the America played an essential role in supporting local economies along the shores of Lake Michigan, supplying fresh fish to markets in cities such as Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Chicago.

Final Voyage & Loss

On May 5, 1950, the America encountered a sudden squall while operating 5 miles off Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.

Details of the Incident:

• The sudden squall brought high winds and rough seas, conditions common in spring on Lake Michigan.
• The vessel Foundered—a term indicating that she took on water and sank—before being able to reach safety.
• There are no confirmed details regarding loss of life or whether the crew managed to escape before the vessel sank.

Final Disposition

The America was lost off Sturgeon Bay, and there are no records of recovery. Given her small size and the depth of Lake Michigan, it is likely that the vessel remains submerged near the area where she sank.

Located By & Date Found

There is no confirmed discovery of the America’s wreck. However, the Sturgeon Bay area is a well-known diving destination with numerous shipwrecks, and the remains of the America may still exist, potentially yet to be identified.

NOTMARs & Advisories

The waters around Sturgeon Bay and the Door Peninsula are known for sudden weather changes and treacherous squalls. Mariners should exercise caution and monitor weather conditions closely when operating in these waters, especially in the spring and fall seasons.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• Great Lakes Vessels Database – BGSU
• Wisconsin Shipwrecks Database
• Edward J. Dowling Collection, University of Detroit – Mercy

Conclusion

The America’s loss in 1950 underscores the dangers faced by commercial fishermen on the Great Lakes, where sudden squalls and unpredictable weather could quickly turn routine operations into disasters. Built in 1917 in Bailey’s Harbor, the America was part of the vital fishing fleet that supported the economies of Wisconsin and surrounding states. While small in size, vessels like the America were critical to the Great Lakes fishing industry. Her sinking near Sturgeon Bay serves as a reminder of the perils of maritime life and the fragility of the fishing communities that depended on these boats.

Keywords: America, Fish Tug, Sturgeon Bay Shipwreck, Lake Michigan Fishing Vessels, Sudden Squall Loss

Categories: Great Lakes Fishing Vessels, Lake Michigan Shipwrecks, Maritime Storm Disasters

Glossary Terms: Fish Tug, Oil Screw Engine, Foundering, Sudden Squall, Great Lakes Fishing Industry