GORDON GAUTHIER

The Gordon Gauthier, a tug (towboat) built in 1883, had a history that spanned several decades before meeting its unfortunate end. Constructed in Wallaceburg, ONT, the vessel was made of wood and had an official number of 88625. The original owner of the Gordon Gauthier was Charles W. Gauthier, located in Sandwich, ONT.

Powered by a high-pressure engine with a single cylinder, the Gordon Gauthier relied on a 12″ x 12″ Keri Brothers engine, which was built in Walkerville, ONT, in 1884. The vessel’s hull dimensions were recorded as 52.7 feet in length, 11.3 feet in beam, and 5.3 feet in depth. It had a gross tonnage of 20.82 and a net tonnage of 14.67.

On October 9, 1911, tragedy struck as the Gordon Gauthier met its demise. The vessel burned down in Port Arthur, ONT, located in Thunder Bay on Lake Superior. The fire consumed the tug, leading to its destruction in the harbor.

Throughout its history, the Gordon Gauthier underwent various changes. On August 13, 1884, it was registered. A significant event took place on April 26, 1886, when the vessel was rebuilt, resulting in new dimensions of 53′ x 12′ x 5.6′. This reconstruction increased its gross tonnage to 26.38 and its net tonnage to 17.94.

In 1899, ownership of the Gordon Gauthier transferred to S.F. Reeves in Windsor, ONT. However, it was in 1911, under the ownership of Lake Superior Tug Co. in Port Arthur, Thunder Bay, ONT, that the vessel met its tragic fate, burning down and becoming a total loss.

The Gordon Gauthier’s history showcases the vessel’s role as a tug (towboat) and the significant events that shaped its journey. From its construction in 1883 to its final moments in 1911, the tug faced various changes in ownership, underwent a rebuilding process, and ultimately succumbed to a destructive fire. These events highlight the risks and challenges faced by vessels navigating the waters of Lake Superior and the impact of such incidents on maritime transportation in the region.