The ARBUTUS was a propeller steam tug built in 1887 by W. McDonnell in Wallaceburg, Ontario. It had a length of 63 feet, a beam of 15 feet, and a depth of 7 feet. The vessel had a gross tonnage of 49 and a net tonnage of 34. It was powered by a single high-pressure steam engine with one cylinder and propelled by a screw propeller.
The tug was initially owned by William Patterson of Wallaceburg, Ontario. In 1891, it suffered a fire at its dock in Wallaceburg, resulting in significant damage. The vessel was valued at $6,000 and insured for $3,500 at the time.
Over the years, the ownership of the ARBUTUS changed hands. It was owned by R. Chapman of Lion’s Head, Ontario, in 1895, and later by W. Vandusen of Lion’s Head in 1901. The Central Contracting Co. of Fort William took ownership in 1917, followed by S. Wright of Port Arthur in 1921.
On November 24, 1921, the ARBUTUS foundered in Lake Superior, near Dear Park, Michigan, approximately 10 miles northeast of Grand Marais. The vessel was en route from The Canadian Soo to the Marquette , arrested for carrying illegal liquor. It was being escorted by a U.S. Revenue Cutter at the time being returned to the Mortage holder, as the crew was under arrest for rumrunning. There were no reported casualties.
The tug ARBUTUS met its fate in stormy waters, while its escort vessel watched from nearby.
