A gas screw is a type of vessel powered by a gasoline engine, commonly used on the Great Lakes for various purposes such as transportation, fishing, and recreational activities. These vessels were prevalent during the early to mid-20th century when gasoline engines became popular and accessible.
Gas screws, also known as gasoline screw steamers or gas-powered screw steamers, were typically smaller in size compared to larger steam-powered ships. They were designed with a single propeller (screw) at the stern, which was powered by a gasoline engine. This type of propulsion allowed for increased maneuverability and efficiency compared to steam engines.
The use of gasoline engines in gas screws offered several advantages. Gasoline was more readily available and easier to handle compared to coal or oil used for steam engines. Gas screws were also quicker to start and required less time for maintenance and preparation, making them popular among smaller vessel operators and recreational boaters.
Gas screws played a significant role in the transportation of people and goods across the Great Lakes. They were used for various purposes, including ferrying passengers between ports, delivering cargo to remote areas, and supporting fishing and recreational activities. Gas screws were particularly useful in shallow waters and narrow channels, where larger vessels had difficulty navigating.
During the mid-20th century, as diesel engines gained popularity and became more efficient, gas screws gradually declined in use. Diesel engines offered greater fuel efficiency, longer range, and better reliability, leading to the phasing out of gasoline-powered vessels.
Today, gas screws are less common on the Great Lakes, with diesel-powered vessels dominating the maritime industry. However, some vintage and recreational boats still use gasoline engines, reflecting the historical significance and nostalgia associated with gas screws on the Great Lakes.
